Prepare Your Home To Prevent Winter Mold Cleanup
As the weather turns colder, we all want to keep our homes warm and cozy. But our efforts to keep the cold from entering our home could also be creating the ideal conditions for mold growth. It is important to know that mold growth is not just something you need to worry about in the summer months. Creating an environment for the growth of mold needs be prevented year round. Here are some tips to prepare your home in the winter months to prevent mold cleanup in Springfield Missouri.
Keep The Air Moving
Make sure there is good air circulation. Ensure that the areas that are prone to moisture such as bathrooms and the kitchen are ventilated outside. Make sure that the vents are not blowing air in enclosed spaces, such as the attic or crawl space. Exhausting into attic spaces is common cause of mold growth and is not recommended.
Lower The Humidity
Keep indoor humidity below 60%, preferably between 35% and 45%. Use a dehumidifier if the moisture in the air is too high. If you use a humidifier, make sure it does not exceed the desired moisture level.
Check For Leaks
Inspect your home regularly in areas prone to moisture. Check under sinks, the water heater, basement and attic. Turn off water supply to broken appliances.
Keep All Areas Clean
Vacuum and clean your home regularly to reduce the number of food sources for mold. Pay attention to areas that are susceptible to moisture, such as the bathroom and basement.
Inspect Your Roof
Periodically inspect your roof for signs of stress. Things to look for are lifted shingles, uneven roof lines and any sign of water intrusion to your home. Before the weather hits, make sure to clean your gutters. Blocked gutters can allow snow and ice to collect on your roof causing an ice dam and other damage.
Check Weather Stripping
Replace weather stripping on doors and windows that may allow moisture to enter your home. Act quickly if you see condensation on windows or areas in your home.
Insulate Your Pipes
Insulate pipes to prevent them from freezing or bursting. Pipes that freeze most frequently are those that are exposed to the cold, such as water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like the attic, crawl space, and garage.
The key to preventing mold growth is to address moisture issues immediately and also maintain low humidity levels. If mold becomes a problem in your home call the leaders in mold remediation in Springfield Missouri, PuroClean Certified Restoration.