Mould and mildew are fungi that can rapidly grow anywhere you find moisture. There is very little modification between the two; in fact, mildew is just mould in its early stage. Both serve a significant purpose in our environment by helping to destroy organic materials such as leaves, which enriches the soil. But mould and mildew aren’t as supportive for humans.
To prevent issues like Water Leaking Into Basement, it’s crucial to ensure proper drainage. Implementing measures such as grading the surrounding ground away from the foundation can help in directing water away from your home, reducing the risk of mould growth. Regularly inspect and maintain your drainage systems to safeguard your home against potential water damage and the associated problems like mould infestation.
Living in a mouldy home can source serious health issues like headaches, respiratory problems, sinus congestion, and eye, nose, or throat irritation. It’s particularly dangerous for infants, children, pregnant women, elderly individuals, and people with prevailing respiratory conditions, who are at a higher risk for these problems. Following are some steps you can keep in mind to regulate the growth of moulds:
- Identify Problem Areas in Your Home and Correct Them:
You can’t mould-proof your home, but you can transform it into mould-resistant. Do a thorough review of your home, find out the problem areas, observe if your room undergoes frequent condensation. Preventing mould from growing or spreading might be as simple as installing mould-resistant products, or restoring damaged gutters. Or it may be a substance of major excavation and waterproofing. Whatever the case, address the problem as soon as possible. It might cost some money up front, but it will undoubtedly be more costly down the road if mould continues to grow unrestricted.
- Dry Wet Areas Immediately:
Mould can’t grow in lack of moisture, so tackle wet areas right away. Seepage into the basement after a heavy rainfall, accumulation from a leaky pipe, even a spill on the carpet has to be dried within 24 to 48 hours. If you’ve endured a flood, remove water-damaged carpets, bedding, and furniture if they can’t be entirely dried.
- Prevent Moisture with Proper Ventilation:
It may be that your routine domestic activities are encouraging the development of mould in your home. Vent appliances that generate moisture — clothes dryers, stoves — to the outside. Use AC units and dehumidifiers (especially in humid climates), but ensure they don’t produce moisture themselves by checking them occasionally and cleaning them as directed by the manufacturer. Your energy-efficient home may be enduring moisture inside, so open a window when cooking or washing dishes.
- Direct Water Away from Your Home:
If the ground around your home isn’t appropriately sloped away from the foundation, water may collect there and seep into your crawlspace or basement and hence providing breeding grounds for moulds.
- Clean or Repair Roof Gutters:
A mould problem might be a simple matter of a roof that is leaking due to full or damaged gutters. Have your roof gutters cleaned frequently and inspected for damage. Repair them as required, and keep an eye out for water stains after storms that may indicate a leak.
Finally, familiarise yourself on your region’s climate and how it responds to moisture. There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to mould prevention. Knowing what works for your climate and your home is an important first step. With mould growing around your home, it is greatly discouraged to opt for DIY approach, simply because the health is at stake and the risks aren’t worth it. More than that, a professional mould removal company applies methodology that ensures complete removal of mould, without any relapse.