From the kitchen to the basement, this minute fungus can terrorize your home. Preventing it is not easy, but it is better than trying to remove it once it has started to invade you. By the time it is visible, it is already a health concern. Mold causes respiratory disorders, allergies, and other health complications.
If you prevent it from growing in your home, it will go somewhere else. It will grow on trees, your garden, food, clothes and virtually anywhere. If you allow it, it will take over your home in no time. It will paint your house green-black and kick you out. Sometimes you cannot control its growth. For instance, it will inevitably grow after widespread flooding. It is also difficult to control mold growth during the rainy season. However, you can control how it stays in your home. The following steps can help keep mold at bay.
Repair Any Water and Plumbing Issues
Mold only grows when the conditions are right. Water is the most important ingredient. If you can manage all your plumbing works, you will have taken the first step towards suppressing its growth. Water issues start with piping. Ensure that there are no leaking pipes. Blocked or damaged gutters can also cause problems. Your roofing too has to be perfect. Any weakness that can allow precipitation inside or outside the house will cause problems. You must also flood proof your home. Ensure that there is no stationary water in your garage or any other place. Don’t allow any leaks or seepage indoors or outdoors.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
This has to come from your house design, ensure that your house has enough ventilation. Windows on two sides of every room can help regulate air in the room. Proper lighting can prevent moisture buildup. It can also restrict stuffed air that can encourage the growth of mold. In the kitchen where hot air is likely to carry a lot of moisture with it, use exhaust fans. Opening your windows once in a while can also ensure proper ventilation inside your house.
Dry Moist Areas
Bathrooms, kitchens, and washrooms are prone to water and moisture. Dry your bathroom walls and floors after every use. Change your curtains in the kitchen and bathrooms occasionally. Water your plants moderately. If your house is prone to mold, don’t keep indoor plants. Carpets are prone to spillages, use rugs instead because they can be dried or changed often. Don’t leave soaked clothing items in the washer.
Use Mold-Resistant Products
Places that are prone to mold should be coated with mold-resistant products. You can use chemical solutions to kill mold before it spreads. Before trying to remove mildew, fix the source of the water. If you see mold near your kitchen sink, know that your piping might have a problem. Dry the kitchen and sink area every time you use it just to be sure. When handling mold, ensure you are properly covered. You can use drywall for areas that naturally encourage its growth, such as basements, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Monitor and Correct Humidity Indoors
Keep your humidity between 30 and 60%. Higher humidity means more water in the air. The water will condense on walls, floors, and items giving mold perfect breeding ground. You can use humidifiers or dehumidifiers to correct any problems with the humidity of the home. If you see any form of condensation on windows and walls, turn the dehumidifier on. Dry any water hanging around on surfaces.
Improve Airflow Indoors Using Air Conditioners
Nature regulates itself. The atmospheric pressure ensures that air circulation is perfect throughout. Inside the house, nature cannot take its course, unless it is allowed to do so. The HVAC system, however, can help remedy that problem. However, you have to support it by allowing nature sometimes to take its course. Keeping the airflow free within the house can prevent moist air from condensing inside the house. You have to regulate the temperature of air by keeping your air conditioning in good shape.
