How To Prevent Mold Growth

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Mold growth can occur in your home due to high levels of humidity or moisture, and is extremely common after water damage has occurred. However, there are a number of things that you can do around you home to help prevent the development and spread of mold and mildew.

Ventilation

Good ventilation is a great way to reduce the amount of humidity and moisture within your home. Opening the windows within your home during the summer months allows for cross breezes to develop, allowing fresh air in while carrying damp, stale air out. Furthermore, installing dehumidifiers within your HVAC system can help reduce the overall levels of humidity within your home. In the same vein, you'll want to ensure that all of the air vents in your home are unblocked to ensure that air is flowing uninhibited throughout your home.

Plumbing

Take good care of your plumbing and be mindful of leaks and condensation behind the walls or ceilings of your home. This usually takes the form of discoloration, peeling paint or wallpaper, and the sound of running water when no water fixtures are turned on. If you notice a leak or water damage associated with your plumbing anywhere in your house, contact a professional immediately to have it fixed before it causes a significant amount of water damage and promotes mold growth.

Roofing Drainage

Your roof represents two main entrance points for water into your home. Firstly, you should visually inspect your roof (or have a professional come and do it) in the fall and spring months, before the snow and rain come, to ensure that there is no damage to your shingles or flashing that could allow water to seep into your attic. Secondly, you should clean out and inspect your gutters to ensure that they are properly draining water from your roof and away from your home. Improperly functioning gutters will overflow, allowing water to pool around the base of your home and seep into the foundation, where it can cause water damage in your basement.

Regular Cleaning

Mold spores are transported through the air, but feeds on organic matter, such as food, dirt, plant matter, and the like. Ensure that the surfaces within your home are clean, and keep an eye on any indoor plants for signs of mold growth. If mold does begin to develop on materials within your home, throw them out immediately to stop the spread of mold to other areas of your home. Contact a business, such as Universal Inspect, for more information.   


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