Mold growth is such a common occurrence indoors, many homeowners mistakenly believe that it’s completely normal and even harmless. However, mold is serious problem that can have serious effects on your health and safety, not to mention render a home nearly impossible to sell if it’s not taken care of. Mold is one of the most persistent and destructive problems that can affect a home. Here are our tips for getting rid of mold.
Identify sources of moisture to find the root of mold problems
Common moisture areas include:
- Leaky pipes
- Poorly sealed windows and doors
- Poorly sealed shower/tub
- Roof damage
- Poor ventilation
- Condensation
Basements, attics, bathrooms, and crawlspaces are all more likely to experience moisture problems, so pay particular attention to them. If you find and fix moisture problems early on, you can minimize your chances of developing mold problems and prevent expensive damage to your property.
Keep an eye out for mold
Looking for visible signs of mold can help you get rid of the problem quicker. The most common signs of mold include:
- Damp, musty or earthy odors
- Bubbling paint or wallpaper
- Condensation on walls
- Warped floors
- Water stains and discoloration of walls
- Black spots on walls
Get a mold test if you suspect a mold problem
While a visual mold inspection is useful, a mold test is the only way to confirm the actual presence of mold. Hire a professional whose testing is reliable and safe. Professional mold tests can give you important information like the species of mold you’re dealing with and the concentration of mold spores in the air. Knowing the exact species of mold will also help the professional come up with the appropriate solution to eradicating the mold.
To prevent mold from forming or growing back, the best thing you can do is control moisture
Here are some ways to reduce moisture in your home:
- Ensure proper air exchange by opening windows and doors regularly
- Use a dehumidifier if the relative humidity inside your home is above 50%
- Seal foundation cracks
- Fix leaky pipes, faucets and appliances
- Turn on exhaust fans or open windows when showering and cooking
- Make sure your gutters are clean and that your downspouts are directing water far enough away from your home
Cesi Pagano
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