Mold and mildew are two things that no homeowner ever wants to see, but they are also fairly common problems. Both can cause health issues for people residing within the home and can grow unseen in places you may not expect. Mold thrives on moisture, spreads quickly, and can be especially prevalent during the hot, humid summer months. Water damage in walls, crawlspaces, and basements can provide just the right conditions for mold to gain a foothold. Learn how to prevent and address mold in the home, with these six home improvement tips.
- Clean, Disinfect, and Dry Surfaces
Bathrooms and kitchens are common places for mold to develop, thanks to all the moisture present in both areas. That’s why it’s important to regularly clean, disinfect, and dry surfaces in those rooms. When you’re cooking, cleaning, or working on a home improvement project, always clean up thoroughly to leaves as little moisture as possible behind. - Be Vigilant about Spotting and Fixing Plumbing Leaks
For mold prevention and many other reasons, it’s critical to spot and address plumbing leaks as quickly as possible. Undetected leaks and the water damage they leave behind provide the perfect environment for mold to thrive. The longer that leaks in basements, crawlspaces, and walls remain, the more damage that they can cause to your home. - Increase Air Flow to Decrease Moisture Levels
Increasing air flow is an easy step that can help reduce the chance for mold to grow in your home. Use an exhaust fan in the bathroom during and after showers. When possible, open windows to let air flow throughout the home. Dehumidifiers and fans can help reduce moisture in the home no matter the season. - Deal with Basement and Crawlspace Moisture Problems
Basements and crawlspaces, especially in older homes, can be moist, musty places, perfect for mold to establish itself. Check those openings are sealed to prevent rainwater from getting inside and consider a dehumidifier if moisture is a frequent problem in your basement. Make sure there’s sufficient airflow, and don’t be afraid to call a pro if you’re having trouble getting basement/crawlspace moisture problems under control. - Make Sure Outdoor Gear Is Clean and Dry Before Storing
Moisture from outdoor gear, wet towels, laundry, cleaning supplies, and other items can provide an ideal environment for mold to grow. Make sure any outdoor gear that’s stored inside is clean and dry before putting it away. The same goes for any household item that can retain moisture. If you do track moisture into the home accidentally, simply clean it up right away to avoid any issues. - Keep Up with HVAC Maintenance
Your HVAC system is one of the last places that you want to see mold within your home. For that reason and many other home improvement purposes, it’s important to keep up with maintenance on your system. Make sure that you change filters according to manufacturer’s instructions, and have your HVAC system checked out regularly by a pro. If you believe there’s mold in your system, it’s important to address it right away.
Managing moisture is the key to limiting the chance for mold to thrive within your home. You can greatly aid in that process with a variety a simple home improvement and maintenance steps, along with vigilance for spotting mold where it’s most likely to grow. Clean surfaces, increase airflow, fix leaks, and make sure that anything you store in your home is dry. While you can’t completely eliminate the possibility of mold, these steps will make your home a much tougher target.
