Spring is blessing us with fantastic warmer weather, but it’s also the time of year when mold can start to brew. While mold growth is a very common problem that Indiana homeowners face, it can often be prevented. Being proactive helps prevent problems before they cause significant damage to your property.
WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR HOME FROM MOLD GROWTH
DIRECT WATER AWAY FROM FOUNDATION!
Be sure to check all your downspouts and ensure water is flowing away from your home. Intentionally directing rainwater away from your home helps prevent water from pooling around the foundation, reduces the likelihood of water seeping into your basement, minimizes soil erosion, preserves landscaping, and ultimately prevents potentially costly water damage and mold growth.
Consider adding downspout extensions that can be moved around to avoid water always flowing to one spot, or bury them underground for a cleaner look. Another great option is to collect rainwater from your gutter downspout by adding a rain barrel, and use it around your home and garden, which also means spending less on your water bills!
CLEAR GUTTERS + CHECK DRAINAGE CONNECTIONS
It’s important to keep your gutters clean and free of debris to prevent water from backing up and causing damage to your home. Be sure to check all the gutter & downspout connections as well. When parts come loose {or have dents or damage}, unwanted water can pool around foundation causing leaks and water damage to your home…and the perfect breeding ground for mold.
ADD BASEMENT/ATTIC DEHUMIDIFIERS
With warmer weather comes higher humidity, more stress on air conditioning units, and the common threat of unwanted mold growth, musty odors and health issues. Dehumidifiers work to balance your home’s humidity levels to be between 40–60%, which deters all those problems that come with high humidity levels. Remember: Ceepy crawlers prefer damp, dark conditions too!
Be sure to plug-in those dehumidifiers from March – September!
INSPECT ROOF REGULARLY
Regular roof maintenanceto check for signs of damage such as cracked shinges, hail damage, low areas where water may pool, and removing debris that can trap moisture, are the first lines of defense against leaks and mold problems. Water can enter your home through the smallest imperfections in your roof, and Spring storms are great at causing roof damage. Mold growth on the exterior of your roof is both unsightly and potentially hazardous to the actual structural integrity of your home. Mold often starts as a small, barely noticeable spot but can quickly spread across your roof and into your home if left unchecked. Remember, the faster you act, the easier it is to address the problem.
Remember – Safety First! When dealing with high and steep roofs, it’s often safer and more effective to hire a professional to inspect your roof.
MONITOR HUMIDITY LEVELS
Keep indoor humidity levels below 60% (ideally between 30-50%) to discourage mold growth. Use a hygrometer to measure humidity levels more accurately.
LET THE AIR FLOW
Ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas prone to moisture. Turn on the exhaust fans or open windows when showering or cooking to reduce humidity levels. Keep the interior doors open so air can move freely throughout the house.
ADDRESS LEAKS PROMPLY!
To avoid mold growth on the interior of your home, it’s essential to address leaks or water entering the home promptly. Repair any leaks in your roof, plumbing, or walls as soon as you notice them! Even small leaks or a drippy faucet can lead to moisture buildup and mold growth over time. What may seem like a small manageable leak, can quickly cause significant damage and lead to costly repairs, especially when you go to sell your home.
CHECK SUMP PUMP
Be sure sump pumps are functioning properly and able to manage the unpredictable and influx of Spring rainfall.
SAFETY FIRST!
It is also equally important to recognize when a problem is too big or unsafe to tackle alone. Regular home maintence and DIY repair methods help prevent problems from ever starting or getting out of hand. While your home is likely the most valuable asset you own, it’s also constantly evolving, settling in and adapting to its inhabitants. It needs regular love and care to stay in tip-top shape.
In the fight against mold, there’s no shame in needing to seek professional help. It’s a smart and responsible decision that can protect your home and your health in the long run. Don’t wait to find out what’s lurking behind the walls of your home!
If you suspect a mold problem, we offer a complimentary mold evaluation
Call the “Mold Dogs” at 800-601-4050 orContact Us Online
Indiana Residential Mold Remediation Services | IICRC Certification #213801
“The Mold Dogs were amazing, above and beyond. My crawlspace and attic won’t need attention for 20-30 years! If you’re on the fence, hire them, then watch how professional, respectful and effective their work is. The price was also very reasonable for their services.”
Brent Buroker,Homeowner
Google Review-April, 2024
