Mold in the home is a difficult problem to deal with that many homeowners face. Mold is also hazardous to your health so if you are experiencing mold in your home, it is important to deal with the problem as soon as possible. Learn about preventing mold in the home.
The Dangers of Mold
Mold can ruin your furniture and possessions. It can also cause some potentially serious health problems. The symptoms of mold in the home are:
- Runny nose/sneezing
- Red eyes
- Skin rash
- Coughing
- Sore throat
- Asthma attacks
- Depression and anxiety (due to mold toxins accumulating in the body)
Some people are more at risk than others, including babies, the elderly, people with respiratory problems such as asthma, and people going through chemotherapy.
Taking the Necessary Steps for Preventing Mold in the Home
The first step to preventing mold is to find out what is causing it. The most common cause of mold is condensation, leaking pipes within your walls, and roof leaks. If this is the case, it must be dealt with as soon as possible. Hiring a professional to look for the cause of mold is the first step if you suspect you may have a problem.
Preventing Mold in the Home by Reducing Condensation
Condensation is excess moisture that is trapped in your home and is a common issue in modern, well-insulated houses. It is possible to prevent condensation, which will help with preventing mold from developing.
Open Windows
Opening your windows will ventilate your home, which allows any built-up moisture to escape. This is especially important in rooms that get hot and steamy, like your kitchen and bathroom.
Keep Doors Shut
If you are doing an activity that produces a lot of steam like boiling water or showering, keep the door to that room shut with the windows open. This way the moisture will be confined to one room.
Preventing Mold in the Home by Reducing Clutter
Mold grows in dark areas, so clearing clutter from cabinets, your attic, and the basement, will eliminate places for mold to grow unseen.
Wipe Down any Moisture
If you see any moisture building up on walls or around windows, you should dry it up as soon as possible. Mold can start to grow in 24 hours, so you’ll want to stop it as quickly as possible.
Bring in a Professional
A professional can help you to identify any ventilation problems that your home has and can suggest modifications, like installing exhaust fans.
Living with mold is unpleasant and bad for your health, but it is a problem that can be fixed. Understanding the causes of your mold and the steps you need to take in preventing it can give you the tools you need to have a mold-free home.
Cabal Inspection Services offers home inspections and mold inspections in Dade, Broward, and Monroe counties in Southeast Florida. Contact us to request an appointment.