How do you Fight Mold?
Obviously the best way to fight mold is to prevent it from ever getting started in the first place. But that is sometimes easier said than done.
We can’t run and we can’t hide, mold spores are not only insidious, but they are everywhere and always with us.
During the winter months, especially in the Seattle area, mold can become a real problem as furnaces are turned on, doors and windows are closed and humidity levels increase. These are indoor conditions that encourage mold growth.
Are we safe during the summer?
That being said, you might think that during the summer months mold would die, but that isn’t the case. During the summer months we experience hot humid days; these are outdoor conditions that encourage mold growth.
Whether in the winter or the summer, excess humidity in our homes is mold’s best friend. It has been estimated by George Tsongas, a Portland State University professor emeritus, that nearly 1/3 of the homes in the Pacific NW have mold or mildew problems.
One out of 3 homes is an extremely high number, and unfortunately, most of those homeowners don’t even realize they have mold. Once you have it, it doesn’t go away on its own. It will probably be necessary to contact a mold inspector and professional remediator.
If you don’t have mold, or you have had remediation, to keep mold from beginning or coming back, it is absolutely imperative to control the moisture in your home.
An instrument called an hygrometer can check the humidity levels, which should be kept below 50%, although most of us are more comfortable when they are lower than that.
Suggestions to lower humidity
- Always use exhaust fans in your kitchens and bathrooms.
These fans should vent to the outside.
- If your home has naturally high humidity, you could purchase a dehumidifier.
- Keep in mind that too many house plants can cause higher humidity as they give off moisture.
- Just remember how humid it felt the last time you were in a greenhouse.
- Never store firewood in your house; as it dries it gives off moisture.
- Leaky faucets should be repaired.
If you think you have a mold problem, don’t wait, give us a call…
Mold Solutions is a full service mold solutions provider for the Seattle Puget Sound area, Bellevue, Everett, or Tacoma
We can remove the threats to your health and safety caused by mold.
