Although mold has many medical uses, it can be a huge problem for homes and buildings, especially if mold growth goes undetected. Mold spores spread easily and can grow anywhere, including carpet, clothing, food, paper as well as drywall, areas inside walls, around leaking or condensing pipes, and above ceiling tiles. Since mold cannot be completely eradicated and can be costly to fix, the best approach is to prevent mold before it becomes a problem. So how do you prevent mold growth?
Tackle wet areas and repairs right away
Fix leaky plumbing and leaks as soon as possible
Dry wet or damp spots within 48 hours
Clean or repair roof gutters; mold can stem from leaky roof or damaged gutters
Equip your home with mold-resistant products
Place moisture-generating appliances, such as dryers, outside whenever possible
Mold resistant products include mold-resistant drywall, mold inhibitors for paint and mold-resistant sheetrock
Monitor plants
Mold tends to breed well in soil; to prevent mold, try adding Taheebo tea to the plants’ water
Monitor HVAC systems
Keep HVAC drip pans clean, flowing properly, and unobstructed
Maintain low indoor humidity, below 60% RH (ideal range is 30% to 50% RH)
Signs of excess humidity include condensation on windows, pipes, and walls
Ventilation
Increase ventilation (if outside air is cold and dry) or dehumidify (if outdoor air is warm and humid)to reduce air moisture levels
Increase air circulation by opening doors between rooms, moving furniture away from walls and open doors for closets that may be colder than the outer room
Heating
Increase surface temperature or reduce humidity to prevent moisture from condensing
Educate yourself on your region’s climate and how it responds to moisture
Perform regular building/HVAC inspections, maintenance and audits
CLICK HERE to learn how to measure humidity.