As winter melts into spring, the changes between cooler and warmer weather can make home maintenance a battle. The temperature fluctuations create ideal conditions for mold growth, which can thrive amid increased moisture, condensation, and indoor heating. We'll look at some of these factors, as well as preventive measures and actions to take if you find mold.
The Troublesome Two: Late Winter and Early Spring Weather
Here’s how weather conditions in late winter and early spring contribute to mold growth:
Melting Snow and Ice - As spring approaches, melting snow and ice can seep into basements, crawl spaces, and foundations, leading to excess moisture and even water damage. The lingering moisture can lead to damp conditions that will spur mold growth.
Spring Showers, Higher Humidity - April showers may bring May flowers; unfortunately, humidity will tag along. The increasing humidity will exacerbate moisture buildup inside your home and, if not mitigated, can encourage mold spores to settle and grow on walls, ceilings, carpets, and furniture.
STEPS TO PREVENT MOLD GROWTH
Put a Check on Indoor Humidity – Use a hygrometer to keep tabs on indoor humidity levels. Maintaining a 30-50% humidity level can help prevent mold growth. If your home's humidity level is higher, run dehumidifiers in or near rooms that are moisture-prone, such as basements, attics and bathrooms. Running exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms can also help.
Increase Ventilation - Improved airflow can help reduce stagnant moisture and help prevent mold. Make sure your home's ventilation systems are working correctly, and take simple steps such as opening windows, using ceiling fans, and running air conditioners when needed.
Reduce condensation on windows - Insulate windows with weatherstripping or plastic film and/or open windows periodically. Wipe off condensation if you see it.
Repair Water Leaks – Inspect your home for leaks, especially in likely spots near pipes, roofs and the basement/foundation. Repair as quickly as possible so moisture does not accumulate.
Maintain Your Heating and Cooling Systems - Clean or replace your HVAC system's air filters regularly. Also, clean the air ducts when needed and make sure they are free from dust and debris.
Take Care of Your Home’s Exterior – Clean gutters and direct downspouts away from the foundation. Check for cracks in the foundation or siding that may allow moisture to seep inside. Trim vegetation around your home to improve airflow and reduce dampness near exterior walls.
Keep Storage Areas Dry – Use plastic bins rather than cardboard, which can absorb moisture easily.
FINDING MOLD: DO YOU CLEAN – OR CALL FOR HELP?
If you do find mold, what are the best steps to take? While the initial instinct might be to clean up the mold yourself, there are several reasons to pause your efforts:
- “Cleaning” mold by rubbing it can dislodge spores and send them airborne, free to spread to other areas of your home.
- Bleach can clean the surface areas around mold but does not kill the roots where the mold grows.
- Mold on porous areas, or even on large non-porous areas, cannot successfully be killed by bleach.
- Mold spores can pose a health hazard without protective clothing and measures.
THE ANSWER IS PROFESSIONAL MOLD REMEDIATION
When cleaning mold, the safest approach is to call on professionals. Look for a company that takes thorough and careful steps during each stage. Professional mold remediation should include:
- Isolating the mold with physical containment barriers to protect your health.
- Capturing, filtering and scrubbing mold spores from the air using the latest technology.
- Removing mold itself with EPA-registered antimicrobial products.
- Eliminating water sources that contribute to mold growth.
- Safe disposal of mold-contaminated material.
- Cleaning and deodorizing belongings as necessary.
- If necessary, repair and reconstruction of damaged areas.
If you need reliable mold detection and removal services, call the professionals at ServiceMaster DSI. With over 65 years of experience in comprehensive water damage restoration services, our team has the expertise, innovative technology, and protocols to quickly and safely get your home back to normal. Give us a call today at 844-413-3130.
