Eliminating excess moisture in your home is crucial to preventing mold and mildew from forming. Learning how to control moisture levels throughout your home can drastically reduce the chances of mold, and save you the hassle of dealing with the clean-up.
Moisture Control Tips
Moisture, especially in hard-to-reach areas can go undetected for long periods and can lead to mold and mildew issues. Avoid the headache of a hefty clean-up and pay attention to any areas around your home that start to accumulate condensation or access moisture.
Use a dehumidifier in areas that are known to have excess moisture.
Clean and repair roof gutters regularly to ensure they are working properly.
Conduct a visual inspection. Walk around your home and ensure the ground slopes away from the foundation of your house.
Remember to clean and eliminate any debris from air conditioning drip pans.
Be aware. If you see condensation collecting on windows or walls, act quickly to dry the surface and determine the cause of the moisture.
Reducing Humidity
Reducing humidity and moisture in the air of your home can also help to eliminate the potential for mold formation.
Vent appliances such as stoves or dryers outside.
Use dehumidifiers when needed.
Remember to run the bathroom fan or open a window when taking a hot shower.
Turn on your air conditioning on humid days.
Use exhaust fans when cooking.
Preventing Condensation
Condensation happens when warm air rises, cools, then loses its capacity to hold water vapor resulting in the formation of water droplets. Preventing condensation is another important element to consider as cold surfaces such as cold water pipes can become wet from condensation, rust, then eventually break (if not properly insulated).
Increase air movement and ventilation.
Reduce humidity in your home.
Insulate cold surfaces such as cold water pipes.
Remember, the best way to prevent mold and mildew is to clean up any water damage within 24-48 hours. For more information on our mold remediation services call 517-618-1375.