Preventing Mold Growth

We have all heard the horror stories on the nightly news about the side effects of rampant mold growth. Who wants to face those problems? Who would really want to possibly lose their home, and possibly their health, by not taking some simple steps to prevent this from happening? Luckily, preventing mold growth is actually a really easy matter. All you need to do is use these simple guidelines, and you will be well on your way to preventing mold growth in your home.

• Limit carpet use. One of the biggest causes for mold growth in the home is due to the unrestricted use of carpeting in the home. While it may be nice to hop out of the shower and step onto a nice soft carpet, but that carpet does get wet. When carpeting gets wet, it can end up having difficulty drying, which can lead to mold growth. The easiest way to prevent mold growth because of this is by limiting where you use carpeting in your home. Do not use any carpeting in your bathroom or kitchen.
• Check for leaks. Periodically check your home for any leaks. Check everywhere that you can think of for any leaking water, and if you find any clean it up right away. In addition to cleaning it up, be sure that you repair the leak as quickly as possible so that you don't have the problem any more.
• Periodic cleaning. Periodically, and regularly clean your air ducts. Air ducts are a prime location for mold to grow in your home, and unless you regularly clean the ducts, you are running the risk of allowing the uncontrolled growth and spread of mold throughout your home. At least once a year have a professional clean your air ducts, and at least another three times a year clean your ducts yourself.
• Check fittings and seals. Wherever you have water pipes, you will want to ensure that they are tightly fitted, and sealed properly. Don't stop at checking for leaks only, but also make sure that the current seals are in good working order. If they are not, then replace the seals. If the pipes are not fitted properly, tighten them and then reseal the pipes.
• Check condensation. Look throughout your home and keep an eye out for condensation. If you see condensation, then you will need to wipe it up right away. In those areas that have a condensation build up ensure that there is proper insulation and ventilation so that there is no future buildup.
• Ensure ventilation. Proper ventilation will help reduce the growth of any mold in your home. Simply ensure that your bathroom, kitchen, and basement have proper ventilation to reduce any condensation buildup. Moisture is one of the key elements to mold growth, and by ventilating a room you will be able to keep the moisture levels of rooms down to a minimum.