Kelly's Healthy Home

Mold damage can not only cause structural issues and value depreciation to a property, it could be a health risk, triggering allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues. It’s not something you want in your home, but luckily it is something that can be mitigated.

First, I want you to understand that the musty smell you encounter when walking into your home, that’s mold growing and giving off gas. Mildew and mold are essentially the same thing and according to the EPA, if you see it, you should remediate it. But what is mold? The short answer is it’s a member of the fungi family. It lives in moist places and spores grow on organic materials. It is everywhere and has been everywhere for millions of years. But we want it to remain outdoors. When it’s indoors, touching or inhaling mold can cause a allergic reactions which can result in various unhealthy reactions. You can control its growth indoors by controlling the moisture level in your home. The key is moisture control both inside and outside your home.

Here to some simple tips to prevent moisture:

1. Utilize a dehumidifier in your basement
2. Use a fan in your bathroom or open a window when bathing
3. Regulate water away from your home through extended downspouts and making sure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris/leaves/branches
4. Install flashing if missing around chimneys and plumbing stacks

Local mold specialist, Rick James, Owner of Environmental Mold Solutions is a wealth of knowledge and expert at using a two-part microbial defense system. Check out his myth vs fact page.

866.368.6653. | www.envmoldsolutions.com.

If you need help cleaning up mold in your home, you don’t want to hire just any contractor. You want someone that’s experiences and licensed in this capacity. Similar to removing lead paint and installing radon mitigation systems, the professional you hire is really important.

Technically, you can clean small areas of mold yourself. A lot of resources call to use bleach. I’m a non bleach household, so that’s not going to be my go to product. An alternative is to use 1 part white vinegar to 1 part water or detergent and water, and dry completely. Wear gloves and ideally a mask.

Important thing to remember, if moisture persists, the mold will grow back.