Do you have a musty smell in your house? Are there damp walls and discolored surfaces due to moisture build-up? Then you might be dealing with mold and moisture, which can cause all kinds of nasty health issues as well as property damage. It is important to identify the underlying source of water intrusion into your home and one of the best ways to do that is through a thorough inspection. Fortunately, our blog post covers all the information you will need on how to get rid of mold and moisture! From understanding what causes such problems, identifying affected areas, and taking preventive measures, we discuss everything so that you can safeguard your home from costly damages!
Identify the Source of Moisture
If you notice mold or excess moisture in your home, the first step is to find out the source—where is the moisture coming from? Is it condensation building up on walls, pipes, corners of windows, or nearby windowsills? Or is there a plumbing issue that’s allowing water to linger in places it shouldn’t? Identifying the source and remedying it quickly is essential for preventing additional damage. A mold industrial hygienist can help diagnose the source of moisture, inspect your home, and recommend a course of action. Letting a leak go unfixed or not tending effectively to condensation can cause mold and mildew growth in hard-to-reach areas such as between walls and underneath floorboards. Taking swift action against excessive moisture can ensure that the rest of your home remains safe and dry. Also, it is important to fix any water damage that has already occurred. Don’t forget to add a dehumidifier to your home, as well. These are especially helpful in basements and other areas prone to moisture buildup.
Ventilate Well
Ventilating your home well is one of the best ways to reduce excess moisture, and in turn, get rid of mold. This could range from simply opening windows on a regular basis to installing larger solutions like exhaust fans or window ventilators. The former will allow an increase in airflow throughout your house while the latter helps extract air from one room while bringing clean air into it. When concentrated humidity builds up, mold growth follows quickly – so ensuring proper ventilation can help mitigate this risk and save you a big headache down the line. You could, for example, leave your windows open in the summer when it is hot and humid outside. This is especially important if you have an air conditioner because when it runs, it increases the humidity levels in your home. Also, check for any leaks or areas where moisture can get trapped. Make sure to seal them off and use exhaust fans in bathrooms, kitchens, and other rooms that tend to become damp quickly.
Increase Home Temperature
Heat is a key factor in preventing the growth of mold, so set your thermostat to an ideal temperature. Make sure to check it regularly, as fluctuating temperatures can leave you vulnerable to unexpected bouts of moisture in the air. When it comes time to crank up the heat (which should generally be above 70 degrees Fahrenheit), consider supplementing with additional sources of heat such as portable space heaters or electric blankets. While this may call for a bit more upfront investment, keeping your home at an optimal temperature will keep mold and moisture out of your living environment. Keep in mind that these temperature ranges may be different depending on the season and your geographic location.
Use Dehumidifier or Air Conditioner
If you want to keep your living space free from mold and moisture, a dehumidifier or air conditioner can make all the difference. As mentioned above, dehumidifiers play a particularly useful role in absorbing excessive moisture before mold can take hold, while air conditioners filter out humidity when the temperature is especially humid outdoors. With both of these devices working hand-in-hand to battle moisture and mold, you’ll be sure to keep your home clean and dry even on the stickiest days. Make sure you properly maintain these machines to ensure they are always running in peak condition.
Clean Up Excess Water Immediately
Everyone knows what a nuisance mold can be! It not only makes your home look unsightly, but it can also cause structural damage. To protect yourself against mold growth, one of the first steps to take is to clean up any excess water that has built up around your property right away. The less time you give moisture to linger in your home, the lower your risk of having an infestation. Make sure to invest in some necessary supplies like squeegees and mops so you are prepared should any puddles or standing water occur inside or outside your home. Taking these simple precautions will ensure that mold stays far away.
Clean and Disinfect
Keeping surfaces clean and disinfected is one of the best defenses against mold. This top advice includes regularly wiping down surfaces in areas with high moisture from spillages and signs of condensation, such as kitchens and bathrooms. In particular, any damp areas – such as behind furniture or appliances – need to be cleaned at least six times a year to avoid the risk of mold growth. Additionally, regular disinfecting with a mild detergent spray can help keep surfaces free from mold spores. By taking these simple steps and making them part of your regular cleaning routine, you’ll be well on your way to getting rid of mold buildup — creating a healthier, better-smelling home!
In conclusion, it is so important to be aware of the dangers of mold and moisture in your home as they can cause major health problems. Taking the necessary steps to find the source of moisture, ventilate well, set your ideal temperature, and use dehumidifiers or air conditioners can help you protect yourself and your family from mold. Additionally, don’t forget to regularly clean surfaces that may be prone to mold growth or that have been exposed to water. If you follow our advice on how to get rid of mold and moisture, then you’ll be able to keep your home safe and healthy for years to come!
