Mold is definitely an unwanted guest in any home. Unfortunately, it can invade yours—particularly during the humid months. No one wants to experience mold in their home because it's usually unsightly and detrimental in various ways. For instance, mold can grow undetected, causing massive structural damage with time and health issues like allergies. Your kids and pets could also experience a runny nose, sneezing, and migraines. But is it possible to prevent mold from invading your property? Yes, here are some mold prevention tips that you can do to help ensure that mold doesn't invade.
Practice Proper Storage
Most homeowners with limited storage space will likely store their belongings in the basement or attic. Unfortunately, it's risky because mold colonies can quickly grow or thrive in these places because they are often humid or moist. Mold will then feed on the old fabrics, curtains, bags, wood, and carpets stored in the attic or basement. Most of these materials contain cellulose that supports mold growth. However, it's still possible to store them in the attic and keep mold away. Just ensure you keep your things in airtight plastic bags or containers and away from the walls. Also, ensure the attic or basement is adequately ventilated to minimize moisture levels that might encourage mold invasion.
Conduct Regular Moisture and Leak Checks
You may not monitor your home's moisture content daily, but you can easily notice signs indicating abnormal moisture levels. For instance, condensation on the doors or windows shows there are moisture issues to fix. Rooms that feel sticky or muggy also indicate a moisture problem. Leaks in the laundry room or bathroom could also be a major culprit. So it's good to check your pipes and faucets for leaks and hire an expert to repair them before mold creeps in. Mold can quickly grow undetected when you ignore moisture and leak checks.
Use Mold-Resistant Products
It's advisable to use mold-resistant products when renovating or building a home to keep mold at bay. For instance, use drywall because it effectively resists mold growth. It's usually paperless, and its gypsum core is covered in fiberglass. It's a great addition to humid or wet areas like the laundry room, basement, and bathroom. Actually, the drywall prevents moisture absorption, hindering mold growth. You could also use paints containing mold inhibitors to avoid mold growth on the walls or other surfaces. But it's good to seek professional help to ensure you invest in products that will effectively resist mold.