Keep Your Home Safe From Mold

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

Most homes have basements, attics, crawl spaces or garages that provide habitats for mold. All that is needed is a dark, damp, warm environment. If you have water damage, water leaks, a leaky roof, a washing machine that overflows frequently or any other chronic water/moisture issue, mold can take a toehold and thrive.

sometimes water damage can lurk behind walls where it is not apparent. SERVPRO professionals can use a moisture meter and infrared cameras see if anything is leaking.

So what can you do to reduce your exposure to mold? Attack mold on two fronts -- removal and prevention:

Fix leaky plumbing or other sources of water. If you have mold in your crawl space or basement, locate the source and stop the water from coming in.

Dry water-damaged areas and items (like carpeting) within 24 to 48 hours of flooding. Throw out all wet, moldy tiles and carpeting.

Reduce indoor humidity by venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources. Exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens can help. If you don’t have exhaust fans, crack a window in the kitchen when you're cooking or in the bathroom when you're bathing.

In the summer use air conditioners and dehumidifiers inside your home. Change filters regularly. Use a dehumidifier to get rid of dampness in basements.

In the winter, add insulation to windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors where there is potential for condensation on cold surfaces.

If you suspect or see mold anywhere in your home, get your house tested for mold. A moisture meter test will help, and dust samples from your carpet can show whether mold spores are in your home. If you DO have mold, call SERVPRO of Eatontown/Long Branch, and our certified experts will put a remediation plan in place to get rid of it.