Carrara Companies Cleaning & Restoration Services Blog

Mold Prevention in the Home

Several different elements can lead to the growth of mold; high humidity (relative humidity), water pipe leaks, flooding, mildew, leaking roof, condensation, poor ventilation, and wet materials. If you see or have these issues present in your home, you are highly susceptible to mold growth.

The bathroom is a natural area where mold growth occurs, with constant heat and moisture along with the lack of proper ventilation. Condensation has nowhere to evaporate and then absorbs into the walls, woodwork, and ceiling creating the perfect foundation for mold growth. 

Mold produces allergens, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances with symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash for allergic people.  Mold exposure can also irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs of non-allergic people, and usually occurs once mold becomes airborne.

If you have a visible mold problem, first find the source of the water that is causing the mold to develop and eliminate it. Call a certified professional mold remediation company for an estimate and consultation for removal of the mold. Certified professionals have the experience, knowledge, training, and resources to identify moisture sources, evaluate the mold, and remove the contamination.

To prevent mold from growing in your home make sure that the home does not have excess moisture, and keep the relative humidity below 60 percent. Fix any leaks from the roof or pipes, and make sure the basement or crawlspace is not damp. Keep heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) drip pans clean, flowing properly, and unobstructed. Maintain your HVAC system with professional inspections and cleaning. Also, ensure that foundation has proper drainage to allow water to drain away and dry out.