Controlling a Mold Problem

11/2/2017 (Permalink)

Be in the know about mold.

Mold is often a problem after a water damage, especially one that wasn't handled professionally. Many homeowners try to handle water damage cleanup themselves and unseen damage leaves moisture that later causes mold to grow.

If you had a water damage recently and you now smell a musty odor or have visible mold, here are some tips from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help control mold problems:

• The source of mold is moisture; therefore fix all leaks in pipes and in any damp area around tubs and sinks.
• Rebuild, or retrofit, with water-resistant building materials such as tile, stone, deep-sealed concrete, galvanized or stainless steel hardware, indoor/outdoor carpeting, waterproof wallboard and water-resistant glues.
• Prevent seepage of water from outdoors into your house. It is important to have rainwater from gutters or roof drains away from the structure. Ground around the house should slope away to keep basements and crawl spaces dry.
• Cover dirt in crawl spaces with plastic to prevent moisture from coming up from the ground. Ventilate the area as much as possible.
• Clean fabrics such as curtains and upholstery often to keep them dry, because soil promotes mold growth.
• Consider having ductwork cleaned and inspected professionally or replaced if you suspect mold exists on the inside surface of the duct or if duct insulation has been wet.
• Reduce the moisture in the air with dehumidifiers, fans and open windows or air conditioners.
• Do not use fans or vacuum cleaners if mold already exists, especially in hot weather. A fan or vacuum cleaner will spread the mold spores.
• In moisture-prone areas, choose carpets of man-made fibers.
• Reduce potential for condensation on cold surfaces by insulating.
• Routinely check potential problem spots.

For more information, visit www.fema.gov/removing-mold-your-home.