How Do I Prevent Mold Growth?
If you have a water leak, it’s important to clean and dry the area immediately to prevent mold growth. Porous materials, such as drywall and wood wall cavity wood framing can appear dry, but still hold a significant amount of moisture that will cause mold damage. Under the right conditions, mold can begin to grow in as little as 24-48 hours.
As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
SOME QUICK WAYS TO HELP PREVENT MOLD GROWTH
Keep your eyes open. Identify and controlling water problems is the first step in discouraging mold growth. Here are a few quick tips.
- Every month, when you change your AC filters, also look at all of your ceilings and under cabinets. Look for signs of moisture.
- Monitor the humidity in your home. Keep humidity in the low 50’s or less.
- Regularly maintain your HVAC system. A poorly running HVAC system will not sufficiently process the humidity in your home, which could lead to a Mold Bloom.
- Properly ventilate your clothes dryer and clean the lint exhaust regularly
- Use tile, not carpet or wood, in moisture-prone areas. In Florida, it is common to find older homes that have elevated moisture in the concrete slab due to the high-water table.
- Employ dehumidifiers in the home if humidity is regularly elevated.
- Insulate cold surfaces like walls, floors and windows.
- Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens and let them run long enough that you don’t see condensation on mirrors or walls.
- Improve circulation in the home by using ceiling fans.
- Above all else, mitigate water damage immediately. Mold cannot grow without moisture.
If you suspect water or mold damage in your home, call Lightning Restoration for a free mold evaluation & estimate. Stay safe and healthy Tampa Bay.