Curb moisture indoors and the mold that thrives on it.
Whether you’ve spotted a small patch of mildew in the bathroom or a large chunk of mold in a corner, getting rid of it should be your priority. Mold and mildew are a nightmare for any homeowner. Not only are they an eyesore and a health hazard, but they can spread like wildfire.
Both mold and mildew are caused by humidity – a high level of moisture in the air. Mold starts growing when a surface is wet and typically occurs in homes that have naturally high humidity levels. Once mold enters the home, it releases spores into the air that circulate and are breathed into the lungs. This can cause or irritate asthma and allergies, skin rashes, and more. In severe cases, chronic bronchitis is produced.
The most important way to prevent mold growth is to eliminate the moisture that it needs to survive. Check out these tried-and-true methods to kick mold and mildew out the door!
Clear it up: For small patches of mold, you can scrub it away with warm water and detergent. Be sure to dry the area thoroughly afterward and eliminate the moisture so that the mold will not return quickly.
Ventilate properly: Daily activities may invite moisture and mold into your home. Don’t leave wet clothes around the house and always dry pots and pans after washing them up. Use AC units and dehumidifiers to eliminate the excess moisture in the air.
Heat your home: Keep your house well-heated in colder weather – even in California! Cold air is more prone to release moisture in the form of condensation onto surfaces of your home.
Clean or repair roof gutters: A mold problem might be a simple matter of fixing a roof that’s leaking. If the gutters are looking worse for wear, clean them out, inspect them for damage, and repair as necessary.
Direct water away from your home: If the ground around your home isn’t sufficiently sloped away from the foundation, water may collect there and seep into your crawlspace or basement.
Improve air flow: Without a good airflow in your home, that excess moisture may appear on your walls, windows, and floors. To increase circulation, open doors between rooms, move furniture away from the walls, and open doors to closets. Let fresh air in every day to keep moisture at bay.
Let the sun in: Open the curtains during the day so that there’s plenty of natural light. Mold and mildew like warm, moist, dark spaces. Cleaning and vacuuming often will get rid of dormant spores and reduce the chances of mold growing back.
With these tips and the right homeowners insurance, your home can stay safe! Contact McCarty Insurance Agency to get started on the right policy for your home and needs in Fresno and areas of California.
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