Without addressing the root problem, cleaning alone, among other things, can result in the return of mold on your walls and in your home. It’s vital to understand what mold is and why it grows back for effective mold restoration and prevention.
Mold is not always easy to see. If there is no smell, mold is recognizable by either a white, dry, and powdery appearance or a wet and fuzzy appearance that can be green, black, orange, or purple in color.
When found, mold removal services from Utah restoration companies might be necessary to keep your home maintained. Without removal, mold can affect your physical health and risk the structural integrity of your living environment.
Moisture: a breeding ground for mold
Moisture is the primary factor that promotes mold growth. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, walls where pipes and wires run, old corners behind furniture where condensation collects, and underneath carpets and pads is where mold can collect. You might not even know it. Mold can be found almost anywhere.
When you can control indoor moisture or humidity, you can control indoor mold growth. If indoor relative humidity rises above 60 percent, you are at risk for moisture collects and mold can grow.
Unaddressed issues: leaks and high humidity
The most common areas for mold growth occur in a bathroom, kitchen or laundry area with faucets or water spouts. Mold is also common in basements. Even small leaks can lead to mold issues if left unaddressed.
Suspected mold or excess moisture should be treated first with an inspection. Check pipes for leaks and damage. Monitor the area for high humidity. Utah restoration companies can assist in identifying and implementing humidity control measures. Without immediate action and attention, leaks and humidity can lead to persistent and more concerning problems.
Improper cleaning solutions: the bleach myth
As mold is an organic substance, it is a misconception that bleach is the most effective cleaning agent. Do not use bleach to clean mold. It does not address mold spores embedded in the materials. Bleach is a strong chemical which releases chlorine gas. This is why you should never mix it with other cleaners as toxins could be released.
If used, bleach only solves the surface issue. It does not remove the moisture which caused the mold in the first place. Scrub mold off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely. Increase ventilation, especially in the bathroom, whenever possible.
Lack of ventilation: trapped moisture
Proper ventilation is crucial to avoiding moisture and preventing mold growth. Inspect attics and crawl spaces. These areas are perfect examples where air ventilation and mold issues can occur. Bathrooms and kitchens are two more areas that can have excess water. If not cared for, trapped moisture becomes a risk area for mold. Ensuring adequate airflow reduces moisture levels.
Poor Insulation: cold spots and condensation
Poor insulation is a significant contributor to mold growth in homes. Inadequate insulation can lead to cold spots on walls, ceilings, and floors where condensation forms. When warm, moist air comes into contact with these cold surfaces, it cools and releases moisture, creating an ideal environment for mold.
Additionally, poorly insulated areas can trap moisture within walls and other structural elements, further exacerbating mold problems. Over time, this persistent moisture can lead to extensive mold growth, damaging building materials, and compromising indoor air quality.
Inadequate drying: leaving moisture behind
Spills, leaks, floods, and other water events leave moisture behind. If the incident is not completely cleaned and dried thoroughly, it creates a breeding ground for mold. This situation would be ideal for professionals and mold removal services to use advanced drying equipment to ensure all moisture is eliminated. Being thorough prevents mold from establishing or re-establishing itself.
Neglected maintenance: ignoring the warning signs
Ignoring early signs of mold can lead to bigger problems. Musty odors, discoloration on walls, and respiratory issues are common indicators. Regular maintenance and inspections help catch mold problems early. Utah restoration companies offer maintenance services to identify and address mold issues before they escalate.
Returning contamination: cross-contamination from other areas
As an organic fungi, mold not only grows in moist places but also reproduces by releasing spores that can spread through air, water, or on animals. This means cross-contamination is also a concern for your home. When attacking multiple places at once, professional mold removal services can be helpful.
Ineffective remediation: superficial removal of mold
Superficial cleaning removes visible mold but leaves spores behind. Remediation reverses or stops the damage. Full remediation can even include clearing nails and staples. Dispose of mold-contaminated items. If remediation is ineffective, mold returns quickly.
7 ways to prevent mold from coming back on your walls
Eliminating moisture sources
Moisture cannot be fully removed. Strive to control moisture. Monitor indoor humidity levels from 30–50 percent, relatively. Measure humidity with a humidity meter.
Air conditioning or a dehumidifier are options to help decrease humidity levels. Improving drainage around the home is another essential step to eliminate moisture sources. Utah restoration companies can identify and help address sources to remove the chances of mold growth environments.
Use appropriate cleaning solutions
Use the right cleaning substances that prevent mold. Homeowners should follow professional recommendations for cleaning solutions to maintain a safe and mold-free environment. Professional mold removal services use solutions designed to kill mold spores effectively if visible or hidden mold is a concern.
Improve ventilation
Improving ventilation can be as large as inspecting and maintaining HVAC systems or as simple as using extractor fans during cooking and turning on fans in the bathroom and laundry room. In either case, ensure that fans ventilate to the outside. Installing exhaust fans and using dehumidifiers can improve ventilation.
If the weather is nice, open windows on occasion to circulate air and release moisture. However, if the air conditioning is running, keep doors and windows closed to prevent moisture and condensation. These measures help maintain a dry environment, making it difficult for mold to grow.
Ensure proper insulation
Proper insulation prevents mold growth by maintaining consistent temperatures throughout the home. By eliminating cold spots, insulation reduces the likelihood of condensation forming on surfaces, thus preventing the buildup of moisture that mold needs to thrive. Insulation also helps in maintaining optimal indoor humidity levels, further reducing the risk of mold.
Ensure your home is adequately insulated, particularly in areas prone to moisture, such as basements, attics, and exterior walls. Investing in professional insulation services from Utah restoration companies can provide comprehensive solutions to keep homes mold-free.
Dry affected areas thoroughly
Act quickly when you see water, condensation, or spills. Attempt to dry the area within 24-48 hours. Homeowners should ensure that affected areas are completely dry before rebuilding or redecorating. In day-to-day housework, prevention can occur in thorough drying of fabrics and laundry before storing them.
Inspect and maintain home regularly
At least once a year, homeowners should perform a thorough inspection to stay ahead of mold issues and ensure a healthy living environment. Deep cleaning routines like emptying and airing out rarely used drawers and closets can help maintain home integrity and prevent mold.
Because mold eats or digests what it is growing on, it can damage a building and its furnishings. If left unchecked, mold eventually can cause structural damage to building materials. Utah restoration companies can perform a professional inspection every 3–5 years depending on your risk and individual need.
Address underlying issues
Remember that as you prevent mold growth in your home, you want to address the underlying issues. If you find water and need to caulk, consider checking further to see if water and moisture have collected in hidden places. Mold grows beyond where the eye can see. Also remember, you are not alone and there are Utah restoration companies that can help with mold restoration and mold removal services.
Understanding the reasons behind recurring mold is the first step in effective prevention and resolution. When in doubt, call Utah restoration companies. If a moldy area is larger than a two foot square, it’s better to have professional mold removal services. With more than a few mold spots, it could be a sign of a bigger moisture problem.
Contact Restoremasters today, to provide you with the next steps on mold restoration. By following these guidelines, homeowners can maintain a mold-free environment and protect their health and safety.
