Mold is a common problem in most homes and can easily be found in areas that offer ideal conditions for their growth. Water and moisture are the active ingredients that lead to mold growth and can cause significant damage to property. It is necessary to call in mold remediation professionals if mold is detected in your home as they have the right experience and equipment to deal with the issue. However, mold can always come back whenever they find environmental conditions that favor their growth or existence. Taking inhibitory measures to prevent mold growth not only guarantees better health but also protects your property from significant damage. Here are some ways on how to prevent mold from coming back.
- Eliminate Excess Moisture and Humidity
Moisture is one of the major causes of mold, as it tends to grow in a wet and damp environment. You can reduce the potential of mold growth by eliminating any excess moisture in your house. You can insulate surfaces that are prone to condensation to prevent the occurrence of moisture. It is also important to wipe and dry out any standing water as it reduces the chances of mold growth. You can also use a dehumidifier to control the level of humidity in your home. Choosing the right air conditioning unit that fits your home will work efficiently to properly drain any moisture that collects in the system.
- Improve Airflow
Proper ventilation and air circulation prevent mold spores from settling and growing on various surfaces in your home. It also helps to reduce the moisture level in your kitchen and bathroom, as they are places where you are likely to find mold. Turn on your bathroom’s exhaust fan when showering or a few minutes after your shower to get rid of steam and excess moisture. This is very important because it eliminates stale air that can encourage the growth of mold in your bathroom. Installing a range hood in the kitchen helps to eliminate unpleasant odors and moisture when preparing or serving food. Dryers or any appliances that produce a lot of moisture should be properly vented to the outside, as they do not add moisture inside your home.
- Regular Maintenance and Repairs
Water leakages or broken plumbing needs to be addressed in the shortest time possible as it may result in recurring mold even after a professional mold remediation procedure. Check for leaks in the attic, on the roof, near windows, and water pipes. The first step is to find the source of the leak and then have it repaired by a professional plumber. It is also important to inspect your HVAC system regularly as it may produce excess moisture if it is not working efficiently. Cleaning your gutters regularly prevents any dead leaves from blocking or clogging the drainage pipes. This not only prevents mold growth but also helps protect your property from significant damage.
- Get Rid of Moldy Items
If you have just encountered mold and you want to keep some of your favorite belongings, it is important to consider only salvageable items. Porous items that have been affected by molds such as carpets, cardboards, wood, and paper need to be discarded or replaced with new items. Cut out any section of your drywall that has been affected by mold and replace it with new drywall to protect other surfaces from mold growth. Non-porous materials that can be salvaged after mold remediation need to be sanitized and inspected for any traces of mold.
- Adjust Your Landscape
If you constantly experience stagnant water outside the perimeter of your house after flooding, you are likely to encounter mold in your basement because of water seeping through the little cracks in your walls. You can solve this problem by reshaping your landscape to direct water away from your home’s foundation. Direct your downspouts further to keep water away from the structure. You can also incorporate a few landscaping tips such as leaving a gap between your siding and mulch or grade your lawn away from the house.
It is essential to identify and eliminate any mold problems as soon as possible to prevent the situation from worsening. It is important to keep the moisture level at a minimum, as it is a vital component for mold growth. Regular cleaning and inspecting your home for any signs of mold helps address the issue in time. While it may be such a relief to have the mold removed from your home, it can always find its way back as long as there are right conditions for its growth. The best way to keep it at bay is by taking the right preventative actions to ensure your home is free of mold.