In order to live, mold needs three things — food, moisture, and warmth. You may think of summer as the prime mold growing months, but actually winter presents optimal mold-growing opportunities. As you begin to heat your home this winter, you may be aiding mold problems without even knowing it. Here’s how to prevent mold growth in winter.
#1. Check For Proper Insulation
One way you can help prevent mold growth in your home this winter is by making sure your home is properly insulated. When your walls are insulated you will avoid condensation. When you don’t have condensation in or on the walls of your home you eliminate one of things mold needs to survive…. moisture. Not only that, but you’ll probably save some money on your heating in the winter months, and your cooling in the summer months.
#2. Watch Humidity
One way to avoid mold growth is by keeping your indoor humidity to a minimum. You should aim for humidity levels less than 40 percent. Basements can be especially problematic, so getting a dehumidifier for your basement is a good idea.
#3. Keep Clean
One way to avoid mold growth is to keep your home clean and neat. This will help you spot trouble areas quickly, and hopefully solve any issues before mold has a chance to really take off.
#4. Use Fans
In areas like bathrooms where there is lots of moisture, be sure you are always using a fan to help eliminate the steam and moisture in that area. After showering leave the shower curtain open so the shower can dry out, and wipe down any excess water or spills.
#5. Prepare the Outside Area
Mold growth isn’t just something that should be avoided inside. Taking care of the exterior of your home will also help prevent mold growth. For instance, if you have any cracks or leaks in your roof, they should be taken care of immediately. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are clear and water can move easily away from your home. Make sure your attic has proper ventilation and properly insulated.
If you already have mold present in your home, now is the time to get rid of it. Mold can be difficult to remove, and the more moisture and heat are present the more mold you’re going to get. Mold can be harmful to the health of those in your home who are sensitive to mold, and can cause damage to your belongings.
Get rid of mold as soon as possible by seeking the help of a remediation professional. RestoreMasters of Utah specialize in not only mold removal, but also water damage.
Mold and the presence of water go hand-in-hand, so hiring the professionals from ResotoreMasters means you’ll get advice from experts in water and mold (as well as fire damage and sewage backups too!)
You can be confident that no matter what the water or mold issue is, they’ll take care of it and restore your home to a safe and comfortable state.
Don’t wait to take care of your mold problem. Call RestoreMasters today!
