If you’ve read this blog for any length of time, then you know that mold is the most common, and most dangerous, side effect of any type of water damage. It establishes quickly, often within 48 hours, spreads like a bad rash, and can prove extremely difficult to remediate. Add to that the various and sundry health problems that usually accompany it and you have a major problem on your hands.
One other thing you should have learned from our efforts here is that the best defense is always a strong offense, making sure that the problem never occurs in the first place. Mold is a nefarious opponent, and one you’re far better off not having to tangle with. If you can take the appropriate steps in advance, then you can keep mold out of your home and you never have to deal with the problem to begin with.
So here it is, the Water Damage Local.com 12 Step Program To Mold Prevention:
1)
It’s The Humidity – You should try to keep indoor humidity levels below 60 percent. Humidity is a prime culprit when it comes to mold growth. Air conditioning can keep humidity levels down and dehumidifiers brought in when necessary.
2) Keep It Dry – Refrain from hanging wet clothes or towels up to dry, and minimize the use of live indoor plants as they facilitate more humid conditions.
3) Measure It - Use a digital meter to measure humidity levels in each room of your home, and address them accordingly.
4) Keep It Clean – Make sure air conditioners, air purifiers, ducts, and dehumidifiers are cleaned out every three months or so to keep them in good operating condition.
5) Filter It Out – Install HEPA filters to catch any mold spores that may be in the air.
6) Suck It Up – Vacuum and mop regularly to remove mold spores from carpeting or tile floors. Keep all surfaces clean and disinfected.
7) Test It – Have a mold test conducted at least once a year, checking for elevated levels of airborne mold.
8) Use Your Nose – Mold has a noxious smell. If you smell mold, then you have mold, so be aware of any changes in household smells and odors.
9) Check It Out - Inspect the roof, attic, exterior siding, ceilings, walls, floors, rugs (both sides) wood furniture, and behind and beneath furniture on a regular basis for water leaks, water stains, water damage, and mold growth.
10) Crawl In It – It may be uncomfortable, but check out your attic, crawlspaces, basement, anywhere that is traditionally dark and humid. This could become a perfect breeding ground for mold.
11) Know The Area – Kitchens and bathrooms are prime mold areas due to higher levels of humidity as the result of showers, dishwashers, etc.
12) Stay Healthy – Observe the health of the folks living or working on your property. If you notice an uptick in cases of respiratory issues, asthma attacks, coughing, sneezing, etc., that may be a clear sign that mold is present and having an effect.
If you do have problems with mold, call the mold remediation professionals at Water Damage Local.com. They are available 24/7/365 to handle all of your mold removal and other water damage problems.
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