Keeping your home clean and safe is essential. Mold growth in the home can cause serious health problems, especially for those with breathing problems, small children, and the elderly. Below are some steps you can take to prevent mold from being an issue in your home.

Prevent Mold in the Ceiling and Foundation

Water leaks in your home from the roof or through the foundation create the perfect conditions for mold to grow. Have these areas inspected and repair or replace anything that could be a potential problem.

Exhaust Fans Prevent Mold

The bathroom can be a breeding ground for mold due to the heat and moisture. To prevent mold in the bathroom, always use exhaust fans. Leave them on even after you are finished showering to help pull moist air outside of the home. If you don’t have exhaust fans in the bathrooms, open a window while you shower and leave it open after you are done.

Check your Showers and Tubs for Leaks

Drywall is an absorbent material where mold can grow that’s typically found behind the shower and tub. Make sure everything is sealed properly with caulk and have a professional inspect the areas you are unable to get to yourself. Replace the caulking around these areas if it is old, cracked, or failing.

Laundry Area

To prevent mold in your home, be sure to check the laundry area. The conditions are often ideal for mold growth due to the heat from the dryer, wet clothing, and any water leaking from the washer. Check all hoses and connections regularly to make sure there isn’t a leak.

Routinely Check for Water Leaks

Paying attention to your water sources and looking for water leaks is a great way to prevent mold. For mold to grow, it needs a dark, damp area. Check the pipes under your sink and in your basement often to be sure they aren’t leaking. Don’t forget to check the crawlspace and behind the toilets. If your refrigerator has an icemaker, check the line to it for leaks.

If you find any leaks, fix them immediately. You may need to call a plumber to resolve the issue. If mold is visible or you smell a musty odor, contact a professional to make repairs and remove the mold for you.

Hire a Professional

One of the best ways to prevent mold growth in your home is to hire a professional. They will inspect the home and look for any telling signs of mold. They will also identify any potential risks that could cause mold to develop down the road. Working with them, you can prevent the problem from occurring in the first place.

Hiring a professional inspector is a good idea if you plan to buy a home or you recently purchased one. It’s important to know about mold problems since they’re unhealthy for your family and expensive to address.

Pro Home Inspection Services offers home inspections to the eastern part of South Carolina. Contact us to schedule an appointment.