Eight Things You Need to Know About Mold

10/31/2018 (Permalink)

How much do you really know about mold?

Mold can be found almost anywhere within your home, but how much do you know about mold? The EPA has gathered these “Need to Know” facts about mold.

1. There isn’t an effective way to eliminate all mold and spores in your home. The way you can control indoor mold growth is by controlling moisture in your home.
2. Fix sources of water problems or leaks to help prevent mold growth.
3. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by:
   1. Ventilating bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating areas
   2. Using air conditioners and de-humidifiers
   3. Increasing air flow in your home
   4. Using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning
4. Clean and dry damp or wet surfaces and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
5. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
6. Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces like windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors by adding insulation.
7. In areas where there is continual moisture, such as bathrooms, do not install carpeting.
8. Mold spores can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance if moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

For more facts about mold, check out the EPA’s mold page or our blog.

If you do have problems with mold, SERVPRO of North Everett/ Lake Stevens/ Monroe can help. We can find and fix sources of moisture that may have contributed to the mold problem and mitigate any mold damage. Call us at 360-243-8313 today.

Source: United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA.gov/mold)