Mold Prevention Checklist – Part 2

Checklist For Preventing Mold Indoors

Mold prevention in the indoor environment is a matter of being aware and pro-active to everyday events. Excess indoor mold can be much more that checking an area after a water or roof leak. Here is part 2 of the detailed mold prevention checklist that will help you identify key areas of concern:

Other Precautions

  • Main Water Valve – Make sure everyone in the household knows where the main valve is located and how to turn the water off.
  • Rain Gutters and Downspouts – Direct rainwater away from your home. Keep gutters clear and make sure downspouts are long enough to effectively carry water away from your foundation. Gutters that are filled with leaves and other debris allow water to back up on the roof, which can result in water damage to eaves and roofing material.
  • Insulate Pipes and Outside Faucets – Minimize the potential for water damage from frozen, broken pipes by insulating supply lines (in attic, crawlspaces and exterior walls), protecting exposed outdoor faucets, sealing gaps in exterior walls and maintaining adequate heat in your home.
  • Sump Pump – The sump pump is the first line of defense in preventing water seepage into basements. Periodically check the sump and remove any debris that could clog the pump. Consider installing a battery-powered backup to protect your basement during power outages.
  • Don’t block weep holes – Weep holes are openings at the foundation level of a brick wall that allow moisture to escape from behind the wall. Do not close or block these openings.
  • Monitor Utility Bills – An abnormally high water bill could signal a water leak.
  • Before You Travel – Turn the water off at the main valve or at major appliances. While you are away, consider leaving a house key and contact information with a neighbor or trusted friend and ask the person to check the inside and outside of your home periodically while you are away.

Other Prevention Ideas

  • Purchase paint with EPA-approved mold inhibitors.
  • Clean bathrooms often with mold killing products and keep surfaces dry.
  • Do not carpet bathrooms, basements, kitchens or other areas prone to collect moisture.
  • Repair damages that could lead to water intrusion promptly and properly.
  • Ensure that the home has adequate ventilation, including exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathrooms.

Mold needs organic matter along with a moisture source to actively colonize and grow. Understanding the areas where excessive moisture can exist will help you prevent mold from establishing itself in your indoor environment.