Black Mold Prevention - Some Guidelines

Black mold is a toxic mold that grows in damp places on any material that contains cellulose. It releases spores that contain a mycotoxin that can cause serious health problems if inhaled. Mold spores are everywhere and you cannot eliminate them from the air in your home. They can come in on the breeze, on animals or on your shoes and clothing. Once inside your home the tiny spores will germinate and grow rapidly if they find conditions that allow them to thrive. If you have had mold problems in your home then you will need to make sure that the conditions that allowed the mold to grow are dealt with. We've put together some guidelines for mold prevention.

Control the Humidity

The humidity in your home needs to be below 55%. Above this level mold can thrive so it is important that you monitor the humidity level in your home and takes steps to reduce it if it is above 55%. Use a hygrometer and make sure that you monitor the humidity levels in all areas of your home including the basement, under the roof and in the walls. Bathrooms can also have high humidity, especially if you do not have good ventilation. Cabinets and closets, especially where food is stored also need to be monitored. High humidity is the number one cause of black mold infestation.

If you find that the humidity is consistently too high then you will need a dehumidifier to bring it down to acceptable levels. In closets and cabinets a small unit can be used but basements, bathrooms, attics etc will need large units.

Leaking Pipes

The second cause of black mold growth is from water seeping into walls, floors and ceilings from leaking pipes and gutters. Hidden pipes in walls and floors can leak unnoticed for a considerable time allowing mold to grow unseen. You may notice a musty smell will should alert you to mold growth. Fix leaking pipes as soon as possible and dry out the area affected thoroughly. Condensation around cold water pipes can also cause moisture to collect. You can prevent this by insulating the pipes.

Blocked Gutters

Gutters can become clogged, especially in the fall, and allow water to seep into the walls. Fit mesh guards over the top of gutters and downpipes and clean them out regularly. Also ensure that water from downpipes is led away from the house and cannot seep into the foundations. You could fit splash blocks to divert water away from your foundations and walls.

Damp Courses and Condensation

Make sure you have an adequate damp course to prevent water seeping from the surrounding soil into your foundations and walls. Condensation can be a problem in many homes and can be prevented by keeping the temperature of windows, floors, walls etc the same as the air inside your house. Fit ventilators in bathrooms and washrooms and make sure that clothes dryers and air conditioner vents lead to the outside.

Leaks in Roofs and Chimneys

Leaks from roofs and chimneys can occur for some time without you knowing about them. Mold can then grow in attics out of your sight, so regularly inspect your attic for signs of mold growth. Inspect the roof and especially the chimney as they are very prone to springing leaks as cement ages. Watch for stains on ceilings to alert you to water leaking and always inspect your roof at the end of the winter. Some types of roofs can be waterproofed so consider this if your roof is a suitable type.

Cellars and Basement

These are a major source of black mold as they are often below ground level and susceptible to damp. They may not be visited for many months allowing mold to grow unchecked. Make a point of inspecting regularly and look out for damp patches and water seeping in from the outside. if this is a problem consider professional waterproofing and fit extra ventilation.

Conclusion

Keeping your home damp free and with a low moisture level in the air is vital to prevent mold growing. Regular inspection of out of the way places is also extremely important. If you keep your home warm and dry and repair leaking pipes and roofs immediately you can prevent mold from thriving in your home and becoming a health hazard to your family and visitors.

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Comments

Sat, 28 Mar 2009 at 3:14 PM, by nyc mold removal
Being exposed to many household mold types can cause your family to become ill and in some cases can also be fatal. If you have suspicion of mold poisoning in your home you should contact a professional mold removal specialist immediately to assure that you and your family is safe. Household mold also causes athlete's foot. If you have athlete's foot or your feet are constantly itching, you might have a mold problem. Athlete's foot can also spread into your genital region and cause jock itch. It is pretty gross when you think about it, jock itch is mold.

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