Have you found mold in your home? Sometimes it's easy to see in moist places like the corners of a shower. At other times, it's harder to find. It might be hiding beneath window sills, under sinks, or even behind the refrigerator. Wherever it's hanging out, it needs to be addressed right away.ac-8-30-22-P.jpgMold loves to feast on surfaces like wood, upholstery, and sheetrock. The damages that result can add up quickly. Not only that, but mold spores lower indoor air quality. They can even affect your health, especially if you have asthma or are allergic to mold.

How to recognize mold

Mold comes in a rainbow of colors including black, gray, green, yellow, orange, and white. Common mold textures range from slimy to furry to powdery. They may have no odor, but they often produce earthy or musty odors.

Some types of mold are more dangerous to your health than others. However, they're all dangerous to your home and household goods. Nature's breakdown crew can actually affect the structural integrity of your house. No matter what kind of mold has invaded your home, it should be evicted as soon as possible.  

How to avoid mold growth

Mold loves moisture. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says, "The key to mold control is moisture control." So, the first thing you want to do is get rid of any excess moisture in your home. That moisture might be from leaky pipes or cracks in the caulking around your windows. Even high humidity in a basement, crawlspace, or attic is enough to let mold thrive. To control moisture and avoid letting mold get a foothold, here are a few tips:

  • Take care of any leaks – even a slow drip can introduce enough moisture for mold growth
  • Avoid flooding from appliances like dishwashers, refrigerators, and water heaters by keeping them well-maintained
  • Keep an eye on any water supply lines or hoses for cracking or leaks
  • Ensure that you have adequate seals on your doors and windows

How do I get rid of mold?

Some people recommend using household products like bleach or vinegar to kill mold. Do they really work? They can if your mold problem is fairly minor. Is your mold growth limited to a very small area? Is it on a non-porous surface like glass or tile? If so, you can likely take care of the issue yourself.ac-8-30-22-S.jpgHowever, for larger areas, particularly those on porous surfaces such as wood or sheetrock, it is recommended to call mold removal professionals. Mold remediation requires the proper equipment and processes in order to remove the mold safely and without spreading it to the rest of your home or business. 

Do you need professional help?

Unless your mold issue is in a very small area (three square feet or less), it's time to call in the professionals. Mold experts have the equipment, supplies and experience to handle even the worst mold problems.

Contact AdvantaClean and let us take care of all your mold problems today!