How to Prevent Mold From Growing in Your Home
Finding mold in your home can be troubling. The health impacts of mold exposure are varied and concerning. And removing the mold can take time and be costly. The best way to deal with mold is to prevent it from growing in the first place.
Understanding the conditions in which mold grows can help you understand how to prevent mold. Fortunately, those conditions essentially boil down to one common factor—moisture.
My Pure Environment now has a location in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. We provide mold inspection, mold testing, and mold remediation for the Coeur d’Alene area. Our Dry Fog technology kills mold spores on contact, and best of all, there’s no costly demolition in the process. Today we’ll discuss the best methods for mold prevention in your home.
Prevent Moisture, Prevent Mold
Mold requires three main things for growth:
- Food
- Oxygen
- Moisture
Indoor mold feeds on fibrous materials in your home, like wood, carpet, or drywall. If these materials are damp for a prolonged period of time, mold spores can settle and begin growing. The best way to ensure mold prevention is to keep your home dry.
Common Sources of Moisture in Your Home
Leaky sinks in the kitchen or bathroom can be a common source of moisture. There’s the added element of darkness under the sink, which makes mold grow faster. For that reason, it’s important to address any leaky sinks as soon as possible.
Another common source of moisture is AC units. Window AC units can create moisture through condensation. This moisture can run down the wall and soak into the carpet. Check any AC units for leaks often to prevent mold growth.
Dealing with Moisture in the Basement
If your basement is perpetually damp, you may already have mold growing there and not know it. Moisture in the basement can be caused by condensation from appliances. Addressing mold in the basement can be tricky.
Running a dehumidifier can help keep moisture in check. You’ll want to keep the moisture level below 60% (ideally between 30% and 50%). Standing water in the basement can be due to moisture in the ground and a leaky foundation. You’ll want to seal the basement walls inside, and outside if possible.
Installing a sump-pump to remove any standing water will also help keep moisture to a minimum.
Mold Removal and Mold Remediation in Coeur d’Alene, ID
My Pure Environment offers mold testing, mold inspection, and mold remediation now in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. We provide the only mold removal service with a one year warranty. Contact us today for your free consultation.
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