Mold and mildew naturally occur in warm, damp places. Which means the kitchen and bathroom make for a perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew to flourish. Most mold and mildew poses no threat, and is in fact harmless. However, under the right condition and unsavory moldy character can develop; black mold. Black mold can cause all kinds of allergies and health problems. Fortunately there are some things you can do to preventing mold and mildew from taking over.
#1 Proper Ventilation
Proper ventilation is crucial for preventing mold and mildew. Mold and mildew thrive in warm, damp areas. By making use of dehumidifiers, fans, and open windows you can alleviate a lot of the moisture that can cause mold and mildew to take off. Good ventilation is especially important in bathrooms where moisture collects quite rapidly from constant use. It’s important to make sure that bathroom fans are properly installed with a proper exhaust
#2 Proper Use of Building Materials
When it comes to the rapid collecting of moisture and the growth of mold and mildew paint really matter. In areas that are prone to moisture it’s important to use and enamel. Enamel
paint helps repel moisture, which helps prevent mold from growing. Using the right kind of drywall is also important. There are several different types of drywall that are specifically designed to deal with moisture. Depending on the level of moisture there is green, blue, purple, and paperless drywall, all of which are designed to repel moisture and mold. Select the drywall that appropriately fits the areas moisture level.
#3 Regular Leak Detection
Regular leak detection is extremely important in preventing mold and mildew. If plumbing leaks are left unchecked, mold and mildew can run rampant leading to more damage and more expensive repairs. It’s better to be proactive in preventing mold and mildew by regularly checking for leaks. Fix leaks right away to prevent damage. This will not only help prevent mold and mildew but also help lower your water bill and prevent any unnecessary water waste.
#4 Regular Cleaning
Cleaning areas that are prone to mold and mildew growth on a regular basis is also important for preventing mold and mildew. Bleach is particularly effective at killing mold and mildew. To prevent mold and mildew clean sinks, showers, and tubs on a regular basis, as well as porous surfaces like tile and grout.
Always be on the lookout for any signs of mold and mildew. Look for the visible signs of mold as well as a musty or wet dirt smell. Staying on top of your regular maintenance is the best way to prevent mold and mildew from taking over. For more serious mold damage contact a professional for proper mold remediation.
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