Mold & Mildew…
Keeping molds and mildews from flourishing in your home can be a chore, but it is possible. Places where they grow, such as basements and bathtubs, must be kept as clean as possible. Since both thrive on moisture it is imperative to keep the home dry, with air conditioners and dehumidifiers having the ability to keep the environment inside the home at a level where molds and mildews cannot grow.
In most cases, molds and mildew are found where it is damp and moist. Bathrooms and basements are popular spots for mildew to form, as you can find it on shower curtains, bathtubs and under sinks.
Moisture absorbing chemicals can be used in closets to protect fabrics from mildew; silica gel and activated alumina are two that work and do not harm clothes. Remove molds and mildews from clothes, paper, mattresses, tiles and other surfaces as soon as you find them, using a variety of cleaning products made for such a purpose. Serious or severe mold infestations may require professional mold remediation services to eliminate the problem.
Whether you’re a home owner or a prospective buyer, mold and mildew issues should not be taken lightly and should be addressed immediately.
For more information about mold and mildew visit: epa.gov/mold/moldguide.html
- Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory complaints.
- There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
- If mold is a problem in your home, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
- Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
- Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60% ) to decrease mold growth by: venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside; using air conditioners and de-humidifiers; increasing ventilation; and using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing, and cleaning.
- Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
- Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
- Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
- In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting.
- Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods
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