Tips To Prevent Black Mold Growth
Category: Home Maintenance
There are many ways you can prevent mold growth in your home. The first step you must take is to control moisture inside the home. Moisture is the only factor in mold growth that you can control, so this will always be the first proactive step you will take to prevent black mold growth. If you wait until the problem develops further, it could be very expensive to clean up. Furthermore, it can contribute to many adverse health effects such as allergies.
Controlling the humidity level will help in black mold prevention. There are two steps to take in controlling the humidity level. These are monitoring relative humidity and dehumidification. If your relative humidity level surpasses 55%, you are at risk of developing a mold problem. You can use relative humidity sensors like hygrometers and moisture meters to check spaces such as attics, basements, cabinets, closets, ductwork, wall cavities and other rooms and spaces in the home. You can then use dehumidifiers to control the humidity level to minimize toxic mold and other contaminants.
You should also take steps to prevent water leaks in the foundation, gutters, pipes, roof, walls and windows. Special attention should be given to basements and crawl spaces. These areas should be well ventilated and waterproofed. If you have ductwork or an HVAC system, you need to take care of condensation or other moisture that forms in the unit. Regularly check and clean the cooling coils, drain pan, filters and insulation.
If you are building new constructions on or for your home, do not use moldy materials and avoid using fake stucco if possible. Remove dirt and dust thoroughly as they are conducive to spreading and harvesting the organic material black mold needs to live. Ventilation is crucial to reducing moisture. However, you need to avoid over-pressurization as this can also have an adverse effect. Combustion appliances such as clothes dryers, heaters, fireplaces, furnaces, ovens, ranges, space heaters, stove and water heaters need to be properly vented as well.
If you have a fireplace, keep firewood outdoors. If you see mold on your shower curtains, replace them. Last, you may consider using an air purifier.
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