MOLD IS A COMMON OCCURRENCE IN HOMES!

Mold can potentially cause health problems as well as damage to structures and surfaces if it is not controlled. Mold begins growing indoors when spores come in contact with wet surfaces or substances. Mold that gets established can be very difficult to remove so preventing it from happening in the first place is the key. Most molds that we find on window sills and in the showers can be cleaned with detergent and brush. Some Big Box Stores carry cleaners with concrobium that are designed to kill the mold and leave an invisible film behind that will kill spores for a short period of time.

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation has a good publication that can be downloaded from cmhc.ca called Fighting Mold the Home Owners Guide # 60516or simply send me an email I can send one to you.

MOLD PREVENTION

Mold cannot grow in the absence of moisture. Moisture can take the form of leaks, spills, condensation, and humidity, so controlling sources of moisture is the most important step in mold prevention. Here are some ways to avoid creating conditions in which mold will thrive. Look for signs of leaks in supply and waste lines for bathrooms, kitchens, utility sinks, and laundry areas. Have any leaks fixed and dry the area thoroughly.

• Check the condition of grout and tile on shower walls, floors, and around bathtubs.Repair damaged grout, and seal it to prevent mold from being absorbed.
• Increase ventilation to the outside by using exhaust fans, attic ventilation Regularly empty and clean drain pans and hoses for air conditioning units and dehumidifiers.
• Check for roof leaks that allow water to enter attic spaces or build up under roof shingles.
• If possible, lower the overall humidity in the home to decrease condensation and create a less mold-friendly environment.
• Open blinds and Curtains to let the air dry out damp areas.
• Open closet doors to ventilate these spaces, discard moldy boxes.

Be especially diligent in and around areas of your home that tend to stay or are damp. Bathrooms and shower areas may be more difficult to keep entirely free of mold. Diligent cleaning, opening a window or installing a suitable sized ventilation fan are often enough to keep mold at bay.

MOLD REMOVAL

Once mold has become established in the home it can be difficult to eradicate. Depending on the location and severity of the mold problem, a homeowner may need to engage a professional certified in mold remediation to remove it. A qualified professional will also take preventive measures to lessen the likelihood of recurrences.