How to Prevent and Deal with Mold

Mold is one of those words that immediately strikes fear into the heart of any homeowner, seller, or buyer…but read this before you panic. Many issues can be treated more easily than you think, and acting quickly will save you from damage and future health problems. Mold issues can also be prevented altogether with a little awareness and diligence. Here is the scoop on the m-word and how to deal with it.

What is Mold?

Molds are microscopic organisms that are found virtually everywhere indoors and outdoors. There are thousands of different kinds of mold. Their natural function is to help break down dead materials such as stumps and leaves so the nutrients can be used by the environment. For molds to grow, they need two things: an organic food source—such as leaves, wood, paper, or dirt—and moisture. Mold is prolific here in the Pacific Northwest but, contrary to what some people think, it’s not a geographic problem—mold can occur anywhere, no matter where you live.

Mold Causes Damage

Mother Nature uses mold to decompose plant material. Unfortunately, when present indoors, it can be equally destructive. Mold growth can damage furnishings, such as carpets, couches, and cabinets. If it goes undetected or neglected, it can also cause serious damage to walls and structural elements in your home.

Mold is present everywhere in very small amounts, and most people tolerate exposure with no adverse effects. If allowed to spread, however, it may cause problems. As molds grow, they release thousands of tiny spores that travel through the air. When inhaled in large enough amounts, these spores may increase the risk of adverse health effects in some people, particularly respiratory problems. A less-common strain of mold called “black mold” can be particularly troublesome to those who are especially sensitive. Here is a good resource for further reading on mold in homes.

Common Causes of Mold Growth in Homes

No matter your local climate, your home is vulnerable to mold. There are many sources of mold problems, from faulty air conditioners to poorly positioned sprinkler systems. Here are the most common sources of mold inside the home:

• Flooding
• Leaky roofs or damaged gutters
• Heating or cooling system problems
• Poor drainage next to foundation
• Plumbing leaks from toilets, refrigerators, and dishwashers
• Damp basement or crawl space
• Leaking windows or doors
• Steam from shower or cooking
• Indoor exhaust from dryer
• Inadequate home ventilation

Detecting Mold in Your Home

If you can see or smell mold inside your home, it’s time to act. Any area that has sustained past or ongoing water damage should be thoroughly inspected—you may find hidden mold growth in water-damaged walls, floors, or ceilings. Walls and floors that are warping or discolored can also indicate moisture problems, as can condensation on windows or walls.

Your first step will be to determine whether the mold is due to an actual water leak or high humidity in the air. If the mold is appearing behind furniture, in wall corners, or on furnishings, it’s likely due to humidity. Condensation appearing on modern double-pane vinyl windows is another sign that your home’s humidity might be too high. Here are some tips on how to control moisture in your home.

How to Prevent Mold in Your Home

Since mold is always present, there’s no way to eliminate it completely. You can control indoor mold growth, however, by controlling moisture.

1. Remove the source of moisture by fixing any leaks or other water problems.
2. Make sure your bathroom fans and dryers are properly vented to the outside. Always use the exhaust fan when cooking or showering. You can also replace the bathroom fan with a constant flow unit for additional ventilation; Environix, the company we use for mold remediation, recommends these models that run quietly.
3. Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels in the air (your goal is below 60% relative humidity).
4. Make sure your AC system is well maintained and is the correct size for your home. A faulty AC system can cool the air without removing the water vapor, creating high humidity.
5. Insulate your home well to prevent indoor condensation.
6. Have your heating, ventilation, and cooling systems professionally cleaned annually. Air-duct systems can easily become contaminated with mold.
7. Regularly clean moist areas such as the bathroom with products that treat mildew.
8. Dry clean your carpets (as opposed to wet cleaning them).
9. Avoid carpeting bathrooms and basements.
10. Clean any moldy surfaces as soon as you notice them.

How to Deal with Mold in Your Home

Mold can be a manageable problem. If you have a mold problem that is isolated to a small area—less than a square yard or so—you can try to resolve it yourself. However, if your mold problem is severe or if you have extensive water damage, it’s best to call a professional contractor who specializes in mold removal (Environix is the local Puget Sound area company that we use and prefer).

Porous items that are hard to clean, such as carpet and drapes, should be discarded. Moldy drywall and ceiling tiles can be removed and replaced. Hard, nonabsorbent surfaces such as glass, plastic and metal should be thoroughly cleaned with soap and water and allowed to dry completely. For solid items that are semi-porous, such as floors, cabinets, and wood furniture, scrub with an ammonia-free cleaner and hot water to remove the mold. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly. After cleaning, apply a mildewcide to kill mold and spores.

When cleaning mold, remember to wear gloves, a mask, and eye protection, and work in a well-ventilated area. Never mix cleaner containing bleach and ammonia; this can result in the release of a toxic gas. And be sure to throw away any sponges or rags that you use for cleaning.