Mold in Your Home and How to Prevent It
12/1/2020 (Permalink)
Mold in Your Home and How to Prevent It
Moisture is unavoidable in any home or commercial building. In the winter, the difference in temperature from the outside and the inside is drastic, these changes in temperature can cause mold growth. The best way to avoid moisture is to open up the windows, but this is not always possible in all seasons.
Facts About Mold
Mold is everywhere. When visible to the naked eye, it tends to look like velvet or fuzz. It often has a color, like black, yellow, green, blue, or white.
Mold can enter a home or commercial building virtually any way possible. It can float in through windows, be carried in on shoes or clothing, and even through vents and HVAC systems.
Mold is attracted to moist, dark places, and can even be smelled when the infestation is large enough.
It is estimated that there are around 300,000 different types of mold. Some of these pose more of a risk than others, but there are many types that commonly exist indoors.
Preventing Mold
It is impossible to prevent mold, and one should be wary of any company that claims to remove it completely. These microscopic spores exist naturally throughout the planet, both indoors and outdoors, which is why mold is remediated, not removed.
However, there are some steps you can take to minimize the spread of mold indoors. These include:
- Controlling humidity inside with the help of devices like a dehumidifier
- Checking that there is adequate, unobstructed venting or purchasing exhaust fans to assist with ventilation
- Examining all water sources and determine if there are any leaks
- Investigating wet areas and finding the sources
- Repairing any sources of water leakage
- Taking care around areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms, laundry areas, and kitchens
Mold Remediation
The presence of mold is not something to be ignored. Unfortunately, removing mold may be just as difficult as preventing it. Mold spores are stubborn and spread easily. Due to its complexity, it is best to hire a professional to check that it is thoroughly remediated.
For professional help with mold, or to schedule a consultation about your situation, do not hesitate to contact the mold experts at SERVPRO of North Leon County.