Mold Prevent Strategies

The subject of mold growth and how to prevent mold in the home are misunderstood. A mold situation in the home is usually handled from a reactive perspective. However, much time, money and hassle can be saved by approaching the potential of mold growth in your own home from a proactive perspective.

Yes, it will take some time to learn some of these important mold prevention tips, but it may save you from having to deal with an unpleasant situation in the future.

Here are some important questions and strategies to consider:

  1. Are there creeks, ponds or lakes nearby in your neighborhood?
    Neighborhoods which have bodies of water may have more outdoor mold spores than other neighborhoods. In addition, these bodies of water may be a source of a unique or toxigenic mold species. Why you ask? Because, mold spores in the outdoor environment may find their way into your home as you open your doors and windows. The immediate outdoor environment is where most indoor molds originate.
  2. Is your roof in good condition?
    Are there places on your roof such as flashing and piping penetrations where water may leak in during a rain storm? A roof leak is the number one reason for an indoor mold problem since it needs moisture to start growing. Keep in mind as you read through these strategies that most all homes have dead mold spores present which can start growing and spreading according to excess humidity.
  3. Is your plumbing in good working order?
    Plumbing problems are the second leading cause of indoor mold growth. It is always a good strategy to know how to turn off your water supply in an emergency. If you do not have an easy-to-access main shutoff valve, then have a water meter key and wrench handy so you or someone else in the home can quickly shut the water supply off when a leak is detected.
  4. Do you have your air conditioning system serviced yearly?
    The air conditioning coil box and adjacent plenums are the third leading cause of indoor mold growth. Have a HVAC contractor clean all organic matter from the interior surfaces of your air handler before every summer season. Have them check that the air conditioning coil condensate tube is draining properly. If your HVAC unit is in the attic, make sure there is an overflow pan directly under the unit in case of leakage.
  5. Are your windows and doors sealed correctly?
    Leakage around doors and windows is another common cause of water penetration into wall cavities. Cracks should be checked and re-caulked if necessary before every spring season.

The bottom line is . . . always be aware of any and all areas of your home which may be a cause of a future water intrusion. Controlling excess moisture whether visual or not visual is paramount to preventing mold in your home.

More mold prevention tips:
Mold Prevention Checklist
Mold Prevention Checklist – Part 2

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