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Summit/Stark County Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold
6/6/2016 (Permalink)
Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home!
If you smell something musty in your home in Summit County, you may have a mold problem, even if it is not immediately visible. Mold damage can occur on almost any surface, particularly if it is porous. All it needs to thrive is moisture and something organic to feed on. Here are some places to look for mold and tips on how to keep these places fungus-free.
Where Is Mold hiding?
Mold or mildew growth may happen anywhere there is too much moisture. Common places in your home where mold could grow include:
- Drywall
- Carpet
- Furniture
- Insulation
- Draperies
An excessive amount of dust can also lead to mold growth. A surface covered in a layer of dust is like a hotel stay for airborne mold spores. This dust layer gives these spores a place to attach and grow. Regular dusting can help keep fungus growth at bay.
How Is It Prevented?
Mold is everywhere. It gets inside your home by attaching to clothing, hair, pets and shoes. Once the spores are in this confined space, they start to look for a place to land and grow.
The most effective way to prevent mold growth is by getting rid of the excess moisture in your home. Try to keep humidity levels between 40-50%. You can measure the humidity in your home with a device from your local hardware store. Make sure rooms that are prone to higher humidity, such as bathrooms and the kitchen, are properly ventilated for good air flow. When you notice a leak, call water remediation specialists immediately to dry and restore the area. Controlling moisture is vital to controlling the spread of mold.
As the homeowner, you play a key role in avoiding mold damage . Rid your home of excess moisture, and when you cannot, inspect all the surfaces where mold can grow to catch it at its beginning stages. By being vigilant about prevention, you can protect the air quality in your home. If you have concerns call SERVPRO of SE Summit County and Lake Township to have one of their experts give you a professional evaluation.
How to Handle Mold
If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores, which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.
What to Do:
- Stay out of affected areas.
- Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
- Contact SERVPRO of SE Summit County/Lake Township for mold remediation services.
What Not to Do:
- Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
- Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
- Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
- Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.
About Our Mold Remediation Services
SERVPRO of SE Summit County/Lake Township specializes in mold cleanup and restoration. In fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.