Understanding Mold: How To Stop Mold From Spreading

1/25/2019 (Permalink)

Moisture problem in a Carrollton, TX home

Prevent and Control Mold Development

If you have a mold problem, or if you worry about a potential problem, then your top priority is likely preventing spreading mold. While most cases of house mold are not black mold, it is a risk and a concern if mold is left untreated long enough. Therefore, to protect your property and family, you should start focusing on adopting certain behaviors that help prevent and control mold development.

1. Control the Climate

Fungus thrives in cool, damp climates, and it can adapt to fluctuating temperatures. One of the easiest ways to control the risks of fungal growth is to minimize those temperature fluctuations. Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature and leave it alone all year long.

2. Remove Excess Moisture

As with the development of it, spreading mold depends on moisture. Therefore, the most useful tool for you to use is likely a dehumidifier. Installing a dehumidifier in areas prone to excess moisture, like basements, will help to maintain a balanced environment throughout your home.

3. Fix Leaks and Ventilate

While controlling the temperature and using dehumidifiers can help, these tools cannot combat damaged pipes or poor ventilation, each of which will create water damage and set the stage for mold spores to settle and colonize. Fixing leaks immediately and ensuring proper ventilation in areas like your kitchen, attic, bathroom and laundry room are the best preventative strategy.

4. Repair Seals and Weather Stripping

Additionally, the seal and weather stripping around windows and doors do not last forever and should be inspected annually to ensure water stays outside where it belongs. A mold remediation specialist in the Carrollton, TX, area can help assess all areas of your property, including sealants, and help you make a long-term plan for your home.

Spreading mold is a scary thing to consider as a homeowner, but it is preventable when you know what to look for. Control the temperature, remove excess moisture, fix all leaks, ventilate, and repair seals and weather stripping and your home should be safe from mold infestation.