Mold Prevention is Your Best Defense

2/2/2018 (Permalink)

Hidden moister or water behind a wall can be detected by our infrared sensors.

Mold thrives in dark, damp, warm environments. If you have (or have had) water damage, water leaks, a leaky roof, a washing machine that overflows frequently or a basement that takes on water, even occasionally, the resulting moisture can give mold a toehold for growth.

In some instances, it can be hard to see the water damage. SERVPRO professionals can use a moisture meter and infrared cameras and find moisture or water behind walls.

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

• 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.

• Check inside drywall for mold inside the wall. You can usually smell mold even if you can't see it. Moldy drywall must be cut out and replaced. Moldy insulation also must be removed and replaced.

• Use fans and heaters to dry water-damaged areasand items (like carpeting) within 24 to 48 hours of flooding.

• Replace ceiling tiles or carpet that have become moldy (or smell like mold).

• 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.

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

• Add insulationto windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors where there is potential for condensation on cold surfaces. Mold can grow even in winter months.

• Get your house tested for mold. A moisture meter test will help. Check with your state health department or find a local environmental testing company.

• If you find or smell mold anywhere in your home, DO NOT try removing mold yourself. Instead, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Eatontown/Long Branch to put a remediation plan in place.