How To Prevent Mold Damage
11/24/2020 (Permalink)
Black mold and other fungi can be detrimental to your home. Fortunately, serious damage is often preventable.
Preventing Mold Growth
Mold spores are almost everywhere, but they do not all result in an infestation. This is due to the fact that not all areas are conducive to fungal growth. Mold needs three things in order to thrive:
- Food
- Warmth
- Water
Homes often have many food sources for mold, including dust, pulpy items and other organic material. Additionally, most homes are warm enough for mold to grow. Therefore, controlling the moisture in your Percy Priest, TN, home is the best way to prevent a mold infestation. Check regularly for signs of a moisture problem, such as a leak or spill. Resolve any such issues as soon as possible. Keep the humidity in the home below 50%. In humid areas, such as bathrooms and basements, you may need to run a dehumidifier.
In addition to controlling the moisture levels in your home, you can also take steps to minimize the number of mold spores present. HEPA air purifiers are good at trapping spores. Regular carpet cleaning can control the spores that are tracked in on shoes and pet paws. There are also mold-resistant paints and fabrics on the market that are inhospitable to mold and can keep the spores from growing.
Removing Mold Growth
Even the most well-maintained homes can suffer black mold or other types of fungal infestations. If you catch the problem early, it is generally possible to prevent serious damage. Homeowners may be able to address very small areas of mold growth using baking soda or vinegar. Larger infestations generally require professional remediation. In addition to mold cleanup, experienced restoration professionals can help you spot problems and prevent future mold growth.
Black mold is scary but preventable. Thankfully, keeping your home clean and dry and addressing signs of mold early are often all it takes to keep your home safe and clean.