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Mold Matters: Health, Prevention and Remediation, Part 2
Part Two of this series covers the measures you can take to prevent mold from taking hold in the home.
WORDS Will Higginbotham
In this installment we focus on a crucial element of a mold-free abode: prevention. Mold loves to make itself at home in damp corners, forgotten spaces and anywhere moisture lingers. Mold exposure can lead to a range of health issues, which WLLW explored in the first part of this series. Respiratory problems, allergies and even chronic conditions can arise from mold infestations. However, armed with our know-how and practical tips, you can create an environment that is less conducive to mold growth. This article will be your guide to prevention strategies; from simple habits to mindful home maintenance, we've got you covered.
Moisture Control and Cleaning
Mold loves a damp environment so one of the best things you can do to prevent it is to keep your home as clean and dry as possible. By following these simple steps you can create a drier, better-ventilated space that discourages mold growth and promotes a healthier home.
Minimizing Moisture
Using exhaust fans: Run exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms during and after cooking or showering to remove excess moisture.
Open windows: When weather permits, open windows to improve air circulation and reduce humidity levels.
Fix leaks: Promptly repair any leaks in plumbing, roofs or windows to prevent water accumulation.
Monitor humidity: Use a hygrometer to monitor indoor humidity levels and keep them between 30-50 percent.
Use dehumidifiers: In particularly damp areas, such as basements or crawl spaces, use a dehumidifier to control moisture.
Regular Cleaning
Keep gutters clean: Regularly maintain gutters to prevent water from pooling near the foundations of your home.
Use natural mold-inhibiting cleaners: Diluted tea-tree oil and pastes made from vinegar and baking soda are natural mold inhibitors. They can help keep bathrooms, kitchens and other susceptible areas free from spores.
Frequent upkeep: Incorporating regular cleaning routines into your household maintenance not only keeps your home looking fresh but also creates less favorable conditions for mold growth.
Building or Renovating?
When building or renovating a home, incorporating mold-resistant materials and construction techniques can go a long way towards creating a mold-free environment. Follow these tips:
Paperless drywall: This option offers additional protection against mold growth. Be sure to avoid any products with synthetic gypsum or biocides and seek out Greenguard-certified drywall.
Mold-resistant paints: Look for lime-based paints, especially in areas prone to moisture like bathrooms, kitchens and basements. These paints are effective mold inhibitors; they are also sustainable and free from Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), carcinogens and toxic substances.
Proper ventilation: Ensure that bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms have exhaust fans that vent outside. Use high-quality ventilation systems, such as energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) or heat recovery ventilators (HRVs), to promote air circulation and reduce humidity.
Mold-resistant flooring: Consider materials such as ceramic tiles, stone or linoleum flooring for areas prone to moisture. Bear in mind that non-breathable materials can cause moisture to accumulate on the subfloor, providing a perfect environment for mold to grow. Our Invisible Series bathroom feature contains information regarding the health impact of different materials.
Properly insulate and ventilate roof spaces: Ensure proper attic ventilation to prevent condensation buildup. Use healthy and sustainable mold-resistant insulation materials, such as hemp, sheep’s wool or expanded cork boards, in roof spaces to prevent moisture absorption.
Address water intrusion: During construction or renovation, be vigilant for any signs of water leaks or intrusion. Promptly repair any leaks in plumbing, roofs, windows, or foundations to prevent moisture buildup.
The next installment of the series will look at what to do if you have spotted a mold problem in your home.
Read more for health risks and remediation:
The views and opinions expressed by WLLW are for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. Readers are encouraged to seek the guidance of certified mold remediation specialists as every circumstance is unique and proper care should be taken to address mold issues effectively and safely.
Photography: srckomkrit/Adobe