Whether you've spotted a small patch of mildew in the bathroom or a large chunk of mold in a corner, getting rid of it should be your first priority. Mold and mildew are a nightmare for any homeowner. Not only are they are an eyesore and a health hazard, but they can spread like wildfire. Luckily, steps on how to remove and reduce mold don't have to be difficult.
Both mold and mildew are both caused by humidity and starts growing when a surface is wet. Mold in the home release spores into the air that is breathed into the lungs by pets and humans. This can cause or irritate asthma and allergies, skin rashes, more. In severe cases, chronic bronchitis is produced.
The most important way to prevent mold growth is to eliminate the moisture that it needs to survive. Check out these tried-and-true methods to kick mold and mildew out the door!
Clear it up: For small patches of mold, you can scrub it away with warm water and detergent. Be sure to dry the area thoroughly afterward and eliminate the moisture so that the mold will not return quickly.
Ventilate properly: Daily activities may invite moisture and mold into your home. Don't leave wet clothes around the house and dry all pots and pans after washing them up. Use AC units and dehumidifiers to eliminate the excess moisture in the air.
Heat your home: Keep your house well heated in colder weather - even in California! Cold air is more prone to release moisture in the form of condensation onto surfaces of your home.
Clean or repair roof gutters: A mold problem might be a simple matter of fixing a roof that's leaking. If the gutters are looking worse for wear, clean them out, inspect them for damage, and repair them as necessary.
Direct water away from your home: If the ground around your home isn't sufficiently sloped away from the foundation, water may collect there and seep into your crawlspace or basement.
Improve air flow: Without a good airflow in your home, that excess moisture may appear on your walls, windows, and floors. To increase circulation, open doors between rooms, move furniture away from the walls, and open doors to closets. Let fresh air in every day to keep moisture at bay.
Let the sun in: Open the curtains during the day so that there's plenty of natural light. Mold and mildew like warm, moist, dark spaces. Cleaning and vacuuming often will get rid of dormant spores and reduce the chances of mold growing back.
With these tips and the right homeowners insurance, your property can stay safe. Get started on a tailored homeowners insurance policy to suit your needs and budget by contacting Jack Stone Insurance Agency, serving Antioch, Brentwood, and neighboring cities in California.
