According to reports, up to 70% of homes have mold and mildew. When exposed to molds and mildew for an extended period of time, people can experience health problems such as asthma, allergies, and skin irritation. These can also cause damage to your home. So it is important for homeowners to remove molds and mildew and prevent such growths from happening inside and outside the house.
The Dangers of Toxic Mold
Toxic mold is a type of mold that can cause health problems in people exposed to it. It can also damage the integrity of your house if left alone.
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may have toxic mold:
- Respiratory problems
- Allergies
- Skin irritation
- Fatigue
- Memory problems
- Headaches
If you think you may have toxic mold, it is important to get rid of it as soon as possible. You can do this by hiring a professional, or by using a DIY kit.
Identifying Mold or Mildew Problem in Your Home
Molds and mildews can be both indoor and outdoor problems. If you see any of the following symptoms, then it is likely that you have a mold or mildew problem in your home:
- Musty odors
- Past flooding
- Water leaks
- Visible mold or mildew growths
- Unexplained health problems such as asthma, allergies, or skin irritation
- Damaged building materials such as drywall, insulation, or ceilings
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to take action right away to remove the mold and mildew. In some cases, you may need to call in a professional to help address the issue.
Getting Rid of Molds and Mildews for Good
Once you have identified that you have a mold or mildew problem, there are some things you can do to get rid of it for good.
Remove the Source of Moisture
Molds and mildews thrive in moist or damp environments. To get rid of them, you need to remove the source of moisture. This could mean fixing leaks in your roof or plumbing, using a dehumidifier, or increasing ventilation.
Clean Up Visible Growths
Once you have removed the source of moisture, you can then start cleaning up any visible mold or mildew growths. Be sure to use protective gear such as gloves, masks, and goggles when doing this. You can clean mold and mildew with detergent and water or a bleach solution.
Call a Pro
If you are having trouble getting rid of molds and mildews or if they keep coming back, it is best to call in a professional residential carpet cleaning service. They will have the expertise and equipment to get your carpets clean and free of any mold or mildew spores. This will help keep your home healthy and free from these pests.
Prevent Future Growth
To prevent molds and mildews from coming back, it is important to take some preventative measures. These include:
Keeping Your Home Clean and Free of Clutter
One of the best ways to get rid of molds and mildews is to keep your home clean and free of clutter. This means keeping surfaces clean and free of dirt, dust, and moisture. You should also regularly wash all of your fabric items such as curtains, rugs, and upholstered furniture.
Keep Your Home Well Ventilated
Mold and mildew thrive in moist environments, so it is important to keep your home well ventilated. This can be done by opening windows and doors regularly or using exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens.
Invest in a Dehumidifier
If you live in a humid climate or your home tends to be damp, you may want to invest in a dehumidifier. This will remove excess moisture from the air and help to prevent mold and mildew from growing.
Fix Leaks and Other Sources of Moisture Right Away
Leaks and moisture are the number one cause of mold and mildew growth, so it is important to fix them right away. Find ways to fix leaky pipes, dripping faucets, and clean up spills immediately. Drying wet areas completely will help prevent the growth of these pests.
Regularly Check for Mold or Mildew Growths
There are many areas preferred by molds and mildew. This includes the grout lines of tiles, the spaces in between cabinets and appliances, and the areas around toilets and showers. So it is important to regularly check these areas for any signs of growth.
Molds and mildew may seem like an insignificant problems. But if left unchecked, they can cause serious health and home problems. Fortunately, there are some things homeowners can do to get rid of these for good. You can use this article as a guide in removing and preventing molds and mildew in our home.
