4 Tips for Controlling Mold in Your Home

5/12/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Damage after a water loss

You may have heard that it’s impossible to wholly get rid of mold because of how it pervades every aspect of your Chicago, IL, home, including omnipresent spores in the air around you at all times. That doesn’t mean you can’t control mold, however, and both prevent its spread and return. Take a look at a few tips for managing your mold problem and ensuring mold prevention.

1. Fix Those Leaks

One of the worst culprits when it comes to mold growth is leaks. Not only do leaks cause water damage, but they create spots of damp where mold proliferates as the moisture and organic matter feed the spores. Check your roofs, windows, appliances, and walls for dark spots and other signs of leakage, and address them promptly with proper repairs and mold remediation.

2. Respond Rapidly to Flooding

If you’ve had a flood in your home, you may be dealing with more than just water damage. You may have an environment ripe for mold growth in stagnant standing water and soaked furnishings. Immediately remove any waterlogged furnishings or carpeting, and dry out the area as much as possible. Be aware that you may be dealing with water soaked beneath the floorboards or into the drywall.

3. Properly Ventilate Your Home

Proper ventilation can go a long way toward drying out any damp areas in your home where mold may grow. It can also prevent condensation, which can be another source of water damage that leads to mold. Open windows and run fans to keep a proper airflow, and use an air filtration device as needed.

4. Eliminate Humidity

You may be noticing a common trend. Moisture is the most prevalent factor in mold outbreaks, and in humid environments you’re asking for another infestation. Dehumidifiers can work wonders to dry out a room and prevent another mold attack. This can be particularly useful in climates where humidity is the norm.

For more on Chicago click here.