Control the Mold by Controlling the Moisture | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Mold invading your space? Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to get your home back in shape.

Can you think of all the sources of moisture in and around your home right now? Sinks, refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, toilets, showers, tubs, gutters, faucets…the list could get pretty long.

Water is such a dominant factor in our everyday life, and we are accustomed to being able to control sources of water at the turn of the handle. But with so many sources of water all around, our homes are also vulnerable to mold.

Mold loves moisture, and it doesn’t take much for it to start growing and spreading. The good news is that with a little regular maintenance and control, you can keep your home dry enough to ensure mold growth is kept at bay.

Start Outside

In order to keep mold from growing, you have to keep water out. Your landscaping is a great place to start ensuring that the elements remain outside. By creating slopes with natural materials, you can ensure water runs away from your home quickly. These materials also help absorb water, which can prevent puddles from forming near your home.

Keeping the gutters clean is another way to protect your home from the outside in. With our snowy weather in the winter, getting your gutters cleaned out is especially important in order to avoid ice dams from forming.

You should also consider your roof and the rest of your home’s exterior. Shingles or other roofing material should be layered properly in order to allow water to run down quickly. Flashing should be added to flat places or anywhere that is uneven in order to create enough sloping to keep water moving.

In general, as you consider the outside of your home, you want to think about where water is going and ensure it isn’t flowing toward your house. Drainage in your yard will go a long way in protecting your home from excessive moisture that will lead to mold.

Prevention on the Inside

The interior of your home should be watertight, but with so many different ways that water enters our homes, the possibility of a leak is always present. Get used to checking under sinks and around toilets and tubs regularly to check for moisture.

Mold loves to hide in these areas, and something as small as a pinhole can create a problem quickly.

Keep a steady temperature in your home, even when you are out of town for a while. Resist turning your HVAC off altogether when you are going to be gone, and instead, set it at a temperature that it won’t run often but will keep your home dry.

Always use exhaust fans in the bathroom and the kitchen, and check the seals on your windows and doors. If you have spent time doing all you can to prevent excess moisture and still notice water droplets or musty smells, consider bringing in a professional. Your home may need extra ventilation or other repairs that can help prevent mold growth long-term.

Concerned about mold and want to talk about the remediation process? Give us a call.