3 Tips for Preventing Residential Mold Problems

Mold and mildew are so common in the natural world that many of us have become accustomed to ignoring their presence altogether, often looking past the odd spot of mold growing on a window sill as a normal part of damp conditions. However, mold growth can get out of control in a residential setting if steps aren’t taken to curb the spread of spores on the home’s surfaces and within the walls, attic, and furniture. While mold will only proliferate in conditions that are ideal for its development, there are certain steps you can take to keep mold from taking a stronghold in your property even if you live in a humid environment that is conducive to mold growth. With that said, heed these three tips and you should be able to keep your home safe from major mold infestations:

1. Have Inspections and Tests Done

Before you start addressing a suspected mold problem in your home, it’s important to ascertain the extent and location of the problem, as well as the exact type of mold that you’re dealing with. It’s common for people to experience the symptoms of mold allergies or infections without actually knowing where the source of the mold is growing. Having lab tests done by a provider like Infection Control Results can help you confirm that you have a mold infection, and which type, to help you begin treatment. You should also have a professional inspector search for mold growth within your walls, basement, and attic.

2. Use an Air Purifier and Dehumidifier

To reliably prevent mold growth, you need to have systems in place for keeping the mold spore count and humidity levels low within the interior of your home. A few strategically placed air purifiers complemented by a couple of oscillating fans will promote the circulation and cleansing of the air, leaving most floating spores trapped in the filter. Additionally, a dehumidifier will keep the home dry, which is an unfriendly growing environment for most types of mold. Likewise, you’ll want to make sure your home’s air conditioning filters are checked and changed routinely.

3. Conduct Routine Cleaning

This is the simplest tip of all, but one that should not be overlooked. By regularly spraying down the surfaces of your kitchen, bathroom, and other historically mold-friendly areas, you can stop any small patches of growth that might’ve otherwise taken route. If you have an aversion to using bleach or other cleaning chemicals, you can use natural alternatives like vinegar, lemon juice, or baking soda, all of which contain effective anti-fungal properties.

Not Just a Health Hazard

If you’re the type of person to shrug off many health hazards because you rarely get sick and have been encountering mold your entire life, you’d still need to be concerned about mold growing on your property because it can cause a tenant or buyer to back out of the buying or leasing process. Furthermore, severe mold growth could cause your property to be condemned by the health department, so there are numerous reasons to practice all of the above suggestions.