Mold thrives in damp and poorly ventilated spaces. Whirlybirds, with their wind-driven rotation, are effective tools in preventing the conditions conducive to mold growth.
Mold and mildew thrive in a humid environment. It’s important to keep these areas well ventilated. This means airing out high humidity areas when possible and running a dehumidifier in these rooms. For new homeowners, asking is it worth getting a home warranty can be easily answered. But what about basic concerns like mold prevention? Here we can discuss ways to take preventative measures.
Remember to wipe down surfaces after a shower or bath and to dry towels quickly, even when bundled up on a rack. This will help prevent the growth of mold.
1. Keep the Areas Dry
Mold and mildew thrive in areas that are damp or moist. They can grow on wood products, paper, wallpaper, ceiling tiles, drywall, carpet, fabric and indoor plants as noted by Restoration Pro. It takes between 24-48 hours for mold spores to develop on a damp surface and then spread through the air. Mold spores are not dangerous for healthy adults, but they can cause respiratory problems and other health issues in children and people with asthma or breathing conditions.
The best way to prevent mold from growing is to keep indoor areas dry. This includes fixing leaks as soon as they occur, using fans and dehumidifiers, and opening windows during hot humid weather. Avoid doing moisture-inducing activities, such as taking steam baths, hanging clothes to dry or watering indoor plants and vegetables.
2. Keep the Areas Cool
Mold can grow in any environment, but it thrives in damp places and is especially likely to develop in humid climates. The Mid-Atlantic’s humid weather creates ideal conditions for indoor mold growth.
Leaking walls and roofs, wet basements, and bathrooms that feel damp are all breeding grounds for mold. It is essential to fix leaks and damp areas as soon as possible.
It is also a good idea to use building materials that are resistant to mold, such as paperless drywall and mildewcide in wall paints. Keep windows open to ventilate rooms, and add dehumidifiers where necessary. It is important to make sure that surfaces are dry before painting. This includes scrubbing any wet areas and allowing
them to dry completely. This will help prevent mold from growing in the future.
3. Keep the Areas Clean
Keeping the areas clean can help prevent mold. Regularly sweeping and vacuuming the floors is important, especially in rooms where moisture is often present, such as basements or bathrooms. Using nonporous cleaners and disinfectants (including bleach) on surfaces can also keep things clean.
If there is any area that develops a musty or moldy odor, you should check for mold growth. This is usually a sign that there is a leak somewhere nearby and that water
or sewage is escaping.
If there is a problem, you should dry the area as quickly as possible. This may require drywall removal and reconstruction, so it is a good idea to consult a mold remediation expert. Ensure that air conditioned or heated air is being directed towards the affected areas of the building to reduce condensation.
4. Avoid Leaks
Molds grow when there is a lot of moisture in the air, which means that you need to watch out for any places that may collect water or condensation. These include refrigerators, water tanks, windows and crawl spaces. If these areas become too damp, you will likely see light stains and smell a strong musty odor.
Leaks are one of the most common causes of mold problems, so you need to make sure that they are fixed as soon as you spot them. You also need to remove any carpet and rugs that are soaked, as they will not dry properly.
5. Keep the Areas Clean
Mold spores float through the air and settle on surfaces where moisture has accumulated, such as walls, floors and carpets. Although some types of mold are harmless, some produce toxins that can cause allergic reactions.
In high-moisture areas like bathrooms, the kitchen and bedrooms, make sure to keep the areas well ventilated and dry. Leaving doors open during cool weather and running fans can help keep these rooms free of mold.
Dealing with wet areas as soon as they happen is also important. If a leak develops from a water pipe or heavy rain falls, mop up the water and dry the area quickly to prevent mold. Also be mindful of what you store in these areas. Things like books, newspapers and piles of clothes can soak up the moisture and become ideal breeding grounds for mold.
