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Controlling Moisture Levels
Controlling moisture levels is the key to controlling mold and speed is of an essence. When your home is flooded or spills occur, it is vital to act quickly. If moisture is controlled and spillages cleaned within 48 hours of occurring, the chances are that, mold will not grow and any damage will be minimised. Clean and repair guttering regularly. Maintain all plumbing work and structural defects. Look for any signs of structural damage and plumbing faults, which may contribute towards a moisture problem, as part of your maintenance routine. Repair all faults that are causing water and moisture problems in your home immediately. Make sure that all tiling and areas around sinks and pipes are securely sealed. Ensure that the ground, around your property, has sufficient drainage and that it slopes away from the edges of the building. Moisture problems will occur if water collects around the outside of buildings. Keep air-conditioning, humidifier and fridge drip pans clean and dry and drains unobstructed and flowing freely. Regulate indoor, humidity levels to around 50% with the use of a dehumidifier. Measure humidity levels by using a hydrometer. Hydrometers are inexpensive and are available from hardware stores. Dry up any condensation or collections of water around windows, wall or pipes immediately. It is important to eradicate the sources of such collections of water. Condensation can be a sign of humidity. REDUCE HUMIDITY Vent appliances that produce steam to the outdoors. Typical appliances are clothes driers, cookers and heaters. Use air conditioners and/or dehumidifiers in areas that are humid, for examples kitchens, bathrooms and basements. Keep humidity levels to around 50%. Always ventilate the bathroom after bathing or showering to prevent condensation from occurring. Use exhaust fans or open windows whenever cooking or using appliances such as clothes driers and dishwashers. Ventilate areas, which contain houseplants. PREVENT CONDENSATION Reduce humidity by using a dehumidifier. Increase ventilation by opening windows and using fans when required. Insulate cold surfaces, such as water pipes. Maintain acceptable air temperatures. The presence of rust around pipe-work, basins, showerheads etc., would indicate condensation is present. Take action to eradicate condensation in any area where rust is apparent. OTHER TIPS FOR CONTROLLING MOISTURE AND PREVENTING MOLD Consider using hard flooring in damp environments should as kitchens, basements and bathrooms. This way, if a spillage should occur, drying up the moisture will be an easy chore. Do not dry clothes indoors or on radiators, if possible air them outside the house or at least dry them in a clothes drier with an exhaust fan leading outside. Always use a shower curtain if your shower is not enclosed. If the property you live in does not belong to you and has a moisture problem, report all faults to the owner of the property if the matter is not dealt with contact your local, state or federal health housing authority.
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