How to Prevent Black Mold Formation in Your Home
Some molds we see, such as the case for Gorgonzola cheese, are safe to heat. However, molds can also be harmful, especially when we’re talking about your home.
The probability of black molds forming within your home is high, especially in places prone to severe weather disasters. If your home or furnished apartment suffered water damage or is located in a damp area, molds are likely to form.
Molds multiply, so the minute you know there’s mold in your home, it’s best to call in a professional for this. While you can certainly remove the mold yourself, it’s not advisable since you need protective gear and the right expertise.
In the following, we’ll be discussing ways you can prevent black mold formation in your home.
1. Prevent any source of moisture
Moisture is the culprit of black mold formation. Be on the lookout for them in small cracks and damp areas.
The most common places to watch out for mold are bathrooms, basements, and areas with heating and cooling appliances. Also, watch out for areas with carpets, ventilation, ducts, crawlspaces, pipes, windows, and the like.
Mold will also grow well in cardboard paper and wood products. This is why mold formation or infestation is more likely to occur in homes than in any other place.
In fact, you might be surprised that a clogged drain is one of the most common causes of mold growth. So if you’re experiencing this issue, it’s imperative for you to call a professional right away.
2. Seal off the affected area
Next to preventing the moisture source is sealing off that area. You must get it repaired or fixed instantly if there are leaks, cracks, or any moisture coming out.
This is a fact that not everyone knows, but even leaks from your HVAC unit or air duct can cause molds. So if you see your HVAC malfunctioning and leaking, you must take advantage of HVAC repair services right away.
Another thing you should observe closely are cracks, dents, pipes, and especially your roof. Whenever it rains or severe weather disasters occur, your roof will always be the first target.
So after a storm occurs, be sure to check for any damp areas or leaks within your home.
3. Wear a mask
As we said, you need to have the proper protective gear when preventing black mold from growing. Otherwise, you might end up inhaling mold spores, which can cause allergic reactions.
For individuals with severe mold allergies, this can even cause shortness of breath. This is precisely why it’s always best to leave a mold infestation or contamination to the experts that know best.
You can also hire professional cleaning services, particularly for any issues with your drainage, water leaks, and water damages.
4. Get home inspection services
If you really want to ensure no mold growth in your home, it’s always best to call a home inspection service.
Again, while mold can be a problem you can handle, you may not know that mold attracts pests like bugs and other insects. So if you don’t want mold growth to lead to a pest infestation, you should get your home inspected regularly.
Prevention is always better than cure, which applies even to mold presence in your home. The last thing you want is a mold infestation to occur.
While small amounts of mold spores aren’t deadly, the minute they land on any damp area in your home, that’s when you should really get concerned.
If you’re looking for more home maintenance tips, don’t hesitate to visit this page.