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Tips For Preventing Mold
Clean and dry wet or damp areas and wet, non-moldy materials within 24 to 48 hours. This is very important, do not wait. Mold spores will begin to grow, all they need is moisture. Stop the moisture and you will stop the mold growth.
Fix plumbing leaks as soon as possible. Again, very important! Fix leaks immediately upon noticing them. If the leak is concealed, you must have these areas professionally checked, especially if the leak was longer than 24 to 48 hours. If the results are positive, you need to remove the material such as; drywall, plaster or flooring to prevent further mold.
Do not allow sprinklers to hit your home. This water can penetrate the structural materials and cause mold growth - at times, heavy mold growth - and in a location that you are probably not going to see very quickly. The water will also begin to wear away at these building materials and further saturate the ground, foundation and eventually the inner-walls. Water seeping into the ground can also cause "hydrostatic" pressure to build up and potentially damage basement walls.
Inspect and repair window seals and flashings. Watch for windows with poor seals which allows moisture to form and condensate. These are little areas that can cause big problems. Never underestimate water infiltration... at any location big or small. Water and condensation are the primary cause of mold growth.
Vent moisture-generating appliances to the outside whenever possible. This includes bathroom and oven exhaust fans. If you need to have a new duct system put in, do it. The benefits outweigh the costs.
Stop and repair sources of water intrusion or accumulation immediately. Important. Whenever and wherever you see a water or moisture problem, you must immediately have it checked and repaired if needed. Remember, control moisture to control mold growth.
Prevent moisture from condensation by increasing surface temperature or reducing the moisture level in the air. To increase surface temperature, insulate or increase air circulation. To reduce the moisture level in the air, repair leaks, increase ventilation (if outside air is cold and dry) or dehumidify (if outdoor air is warm and humid).
Perform regular HVAC inspections and maintenance. Twice per year, in the Spring and Fall is recommended. Also, have an inspection anytime that you develop a moisture problem. Your HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) system is the carrier for the air you breathe. If it becomes contaminated, so does your air. Never assume that your indoor air quality is okay just because your system was checked. Have it tested with a Swab Sample/Test inside of the duct system. This is where dust and other particles are located which are primary food sources for mold spores.
Remember, you must monitor moisture problems to prevent mold growth.
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