Steps to Prevent Mold During the Winter Time

1/30/2018 (Permalink)

Mold growing on a wall of this family's home.

Most people think that the issues related to Mold and its tiny spores are not a problem that you have to worry about during the cold months. Unfortunately, this is not true and mold prevention should be always in the mind of each business owner or home owner at any season.

Prevention is the best solution when it comes to keeping your homes and family safe. Here is a list of things that you can do throughout the winter months to prevent mold growth and keep associated health issues away.

• Keep humidity monitored. Mold will grow easily when the relative humidity is greater than 70%. Both the humidity level and the temperature of the rooms in your house need to be monitored. You don’t want to keep your house to moist or too cool throughout the winter. If you can keep the temperatures balanced between the different rooms throughout your home, you can easily prevent mold growth. There are many different options to balance and monitor conditions in your home so check out your local hardware store or search online.
• Make sure there is a good circulation maintained in your home. Use fans or even open a window when the weather allows – especially when showering, washing dishes or any time moisture is brought into the home.
• Inspect your basement for moisture. If you find moisture, perform an inspection of your drainage system. Repair any broken appliances or pipes and replace any mortar that looks cracked or defective.
• When the temperatures drop below freezing, prevent mold growth by insulating pipes both inside and outside. By doing this, you can prevent breaks and cracks which can allow moisture in once the temperatures return.
• If you notice condensation on pipes, walls or windows, act quickly. Dry out the area and determine if there is a leak or if the condensation was created from humidity. Rectify the situation and continue to monitor for additional moisture in the following days and weeks.
• Check all of the seals around your windows and doors. Replace any that appear to be compromised or damaged. This is an easy and effective way to prevent mold growth and should be performed periodically.
• Keep the leaves and other decaying debris cleaned up in your yard – especially around your home. Don’t allow wet leaves or grass clippings to accumulate and sit in your yard. Remove them often until all of the leaves have fallen for the season.
• Dust and clean regularly throughout the entire winter months as mold loves dusty surfaces. Be sure to pay extra attention to the entry ways or areas where muddy and wet boots are taken off in the home.

The key to prevent mold growth is to keep everything as clean and dry as possible. You can do this through maintenance of your home and temperature control. We hope these recommendations help you to keep your family and your property away from mold and the issues related to it.