Tips on how to prevent Mold Growth in your home or business':
- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends keeping the humidity level in your home below 60%. According to the EPA, the best way to control indoor mold growth is to carefully monitor and maintain a home’s moisture level. If the humidity in a home rises, look for the sources of added moisture and address the problem as soon as possible. Place a dehumidifier in these rooms to lower the moisture level until a permanent solution is found.
- Increase Air Circulation - Set ceiling fans in reverse; fans should turn counterclockwise in the summer and clockwise in the winter. If you set ceiling fans to turn clockwise during chilly winter months, you will pull the cold air up and draw the warmer air downward, which can save you money on energy bills and keep your home a bit warmer. Good air circulation will also keep condensation from building up on cold walls and windows, where it can be a potential source of mold growth.
- Use exhaust fans in the bathroom, kitchen, and other areas of the home that frequently accumulate excessive moisture. Boiling water and steamy showers provide your home’s environment with plenty of moisture. Make sure not to slack when it comes to turning on exhaust fans, including the one in your oven’s hood, which can help reduce condensation formation. Good air circulation can help ensure that moisture doesn't have a chance to sit and promote mold growth.
- Check plumbing pipes regularly. They’re already a cold, humid structure, and if on top of that, they’re not working correctly (such as if they’re leaking), they can cause wet spots on your floor or wall, which will create a perfect home for mold to grow.
- Clean and repair roof gutters regularly, especially if there is an abundance of dead leaves stuck in them. While you're at it, make sure that the area around the downspouts is graded so that any water coming off your roof flows away from your foundation, rather than sitting close to your home where it can pool and contribute to mold growth.
Implementing these simple yet effective strategies will not only contribute to a healthier living space but also protect their home from the potentially harmful effects of mold. In the unfortunate event that your policyholder discovers mold in their home, contact the experts at ServiceMaster by Stechyn & Son. We will help guide them from crisis to resolution as quickly as possible. We're available 24/7/365. Call us at 931-840-0065.
