If you want to avoid mold, there are many things you can do to keep it at bay. These include cleaning your floors, identifying sources of moisture, controlling humidity, and keeping your house clutter-free.
Identifying sources of moisture and nutrition
Molds are fungi that live on dead or decaying organic matter. They produce microscopic spores that can easily be breathed in or ingested. Some molds may even be capable of producing potentially toxic byproducts.
If you are aware of the symptoms of mold exposure, you can prevent it from causing harm. This is especially true for people with respiratory issues or immune suppression. People with these conditions may experience an increased risk of fungal infections. In addition, they are more susceptible to allergic reactions.
Identifying sources of moisture and nutrition to prevent mold is an integral part of maintaining a healthy indoor environment. Several building materials provide nutrients for mold growth. These include wallpaper, insulation, and paint.
Most molds require substantial amounts of moisture to grow. Therefore, mold remediation Summit NJ experts that the best way to control high humidity is to reduce the water in your home. A dehumidifier can help. You can also increase ventilation to improve air circulation.
Cleaning your floors
You can easily prevent mold growth in your home by cleaning your floors regularly. This helps remove excess moisture and also keeps your floors dry.
Mold grows on various surfaces, including wood, cardboard, fabric, and paper. It can be unsightly and cause health problems if you have an infestation.
If you see or smell mold, you should get it cleaned up immediately. It can lead to respiratory problems, itchy eyes, and headaches. In addition, some types of mold are highly toxic.
To clean up surface mold, spray the area with a solution made from diluted bleach and water. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes before rinsing it with water.
You can also use a scrubbing brush to remove mold. Make sure to wear rubber boots and protective goggles.
Insulating ducts
It’s crucial to insulate ducts to prevent mold from growing. Air ducts are typically warm and moist, creating the perfect conditions for mold growth. Unfortunately, ducts also have no drainage system, which means the moisture can condense. The damp air and condensation combine with dirt and dust, creating a breeding ground for mold.
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) has established a standard 62.1 that addresses the prevention of microbial growth. Mold requires three conditions to grow: food, moisture, and spores.
When you are insulating ducts to prevent mold, be sure to use a high-efficiency air filter. This will help avoid the blowback of mold spores.
You can also insulate the ducts by installing fiberglass duct wrap. Duct wraps are made to fit over irregularly shaped surfaces. They have an inner layer of foam and an outer layer of foil.
Keeping a clutter-free space
Keeping a clutter-free space is vital for a variety of reasons. In addition to being visually pleasing, a tidy environment helps promote good health. Not only does a well-maintained space reduce the chance of a minor injury, but it also keeps the stress levels of inhabitants low. A clutter-free house or office makes it easier for a homeowner to maintain a livable space.
A cluttered space is also known to detract from the air quality of an average home. The most obvious culprits are dusty carpets and a lack of fresh air circulation. If the latter is a problem in your home, consider having your HVAC system serviced or replaced.
Creating a no-clutter zone will be a chore, but there are ways to make it as easy on yourself as possible. For starters, hire a cleaning service to keep your place in spick and span condition.
Controlling humidity levels
One of the best ways to control mold in your home is to manage your indoor humidity. High indoor humidity can cause structural damage to the house. A dehumidifier can be used to reduce the moisture in the air. However, this strategy can only be effective if the underlying moisture problem is addressed.
Mold thrives in wet, humid conditions. It grows well on wood, paper, and natural fabrics. Some species of mold can even survive in cold weather.
According to mold remediation Summit NJ, experts the indoor relative humidity should be less than fifty percent to prevent mold. This is recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The EPA also recommends that people at risk for respiratory illnesses check the humidity levels in their homes. This includes people with chronic lung diseases, people who suffer from allergies, and others who may be more sensitive to mold.