Preventing Summer Mold
During the humid summer months, mold can be an unwanted guest. Taking the steps to prevent mold before it can grow out of control is essential. We’re already partway through the summer, but there are things we can do and change to protect our home from mold damage. Stopping mold before it starts, or even in its beginning stages, before it has the chance to grow, will help prevent a greater problem down the road.
Keep your Home Clean
Keeping your home clean is important for a number of reasons. The number one thing mold needs is moisture. Once it has this, it can easily grow on a number of surfaces within the home. Regular cleaning of these areas can be instrumental in preventing mold from growing. Cooking oils, soap scum, and dirt can all facilitate mold growth. Eliminate these elements from the home through regular cleanings.
Control Humidity
Because mold needs water to grow, humidity in the home can be detrimental. This can be an especially big problem during the summer months when humidity in the air is especially high. Whether the moisture is coming from outside air, water coming in, cooking, showering, running the dishwasher, or even breathing, it is important to reduce the amount that remains in the home. Wipe away excessive moisture on the walls and ceiling. Make sure fans in the kitchen and bathroom are functioning properly to remove the moisture. For those living in especially humid areas, investing in a dehumidifier may be necessary.
Control the Temperature
For mold to grow, the ideal temperature needs to be reached. The ideal temperature is between 77 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. During the summer months, temperatures are often higher than normal inside the home. Make an effort to keep temperatures inside the home lower during the summer months. Setting the thermostat to the low 70s makes it more difficult for mold to grow. Be conscious of the temperature of your home. Even if you are away from your home for an extended period of time, keep the temperature fairly low to prevent against mold.
Keep Air Circulating
Stagnant air breeds mold. Keeping air circulating through your home will help prevent mold from growing. Keep all the vents in your home open, even if you don’t often go in that room.
Protect your home against mold, even during the humid summer months. By keeping your home clean, controlling the humidity, controlling the temperature, and keeping the air circulating, you can better prevent mold from growing in your home.