Mold is one household threat that can be present for years without you even noticing. But, don't underestimate its danger. Mold can pose a severe health risk and greatly reduce the air quality in your home.
Once it's there, mold can be extremely difficult to remove, so preventing it is key. So let us show you 6 ways you can prevent mold in your home.
- Keep Your Entryway Dry
This applies to any room that becomes moist frequently, but entryways are particularly vulnerable to getting and staying wet for long periods of time. This can quickly lead to mold buildup in carpets and around baseboards.
So, if this area gets wet, try to clean and dry washable carpets and vacuum both these and wall-to-wall carpets if applicable. For hard floors, make sure to dry up any puddling and inspect baseboards regularly.
- Watch Out for Leaks
Common places to look out for leaks include windows, exterior doorways, and skylights. It's important to watch for leaks coming from the outdoors, but don't forget about ones from inside as well. Regularly check for leaks under kitchen and bathroom sinks.
- Regularly Empty and Clean Drip Trays
Drip trays are often found underneath refrigerators, ovens, window-sills, microwaves, and even basement floors. Drip trays are designed to collect moisture which is important to prevent it from collecting in less desirable locations. However, this means it is important to regularly remove any standing water and clean them thoroughly to prevent mold from growing and spreading to other locations.
- Remember to Use Exhaust Fans
Both boiling water in kitchens and steaming showers in bathrooms can lead to a lot of moisture creating the perfect conditions for mold growth. Exhaust fans such as the ones in your oven's hood can help prevent condensation from forming and remove moisture from the room. It's a good idea to leave the exhaust fan running for at least twenty minutes after the source of the moisture is removed, and also remember to wipe off any condensation from walls as well.
- Use Mold-Resistant Products
Whenever the opportunity presents itself, such as refurbishing your home or painting a room, it's a good idea to use mold-resistant products. These mold-resistant products include mold inhibiting paint, mold-resistant drywall, and even carpets. These products often cost slightly more than the regular versions, but they can save you a lot of money over tearing any items out and replacing them later if they start growing mold. At the very least, it's a good idea to use these products in moisture-prone areas of your home.
- Clean Your Rain Gutters Regularly
Your rain gutters divert water away from your home, protecting your siding and preventing water from finding its way into your home. However, your gutters can't do their job if they are clogged with foliage and other debris. Instead, it travels through the downspout and spills over the sides, risking mold buildup in your home's walls and attic, where you may not even notice the moisture until it's too late to prevent mold buildup.
Final Thoughts
Mold can be a dire threat to your home, so it's worth taking steps to prevent it. Mold needs moisture to grow, and by using any one of these tips, you can go a long way in keeping your home free of mold. By doing this, you can protect not only your investment in your home but also the safety and comfort of your family.
Contact Us
For more information on preventing mold or for help with existing problems, call us at 1-800-847-0114 or connect with us on Facebook.