Moisture in your home can come from many sources. Water can collect in and around your home through leaky roofs, seeping basements, leaky pipes, showers and rain gutters. Temperature has a lot to do with the amount of moisture found in your home. In warm, temperate climates black mold is more common. Here are several ways to control the moisture in your home:
- Fix any seepage or leaks. If water is coming through the roof it is necessary to get that resolved as soon as possible. A small leak can turn into a large one if neglected for too long. Water leaks from pipes, sinks, showers and bathtubs can create a growing environment for mold to grow.
- Make sure your any crawlspaces are well-ventilated. Moisture can collect with no or stagnant air. You might even put a plastic cover in crawlspaces to prevent moisture.
- Consider using exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove moisture to the outside. If you take really hot and steamy showers you might consider using exhaust fans. Continual steam in your bathroom can create mold.
- Vent your clothes dryer to the outside. Don’t let the moist air collect in the laundry room or inside anywhere. It could lead to mold growth
- Use your air conditioner or dehumidifier to reduce moisture. In hot and humid climates an air conditioner is essential to not only creating a comfortable environment but also prevents moll growth.
- Increase the circulation in your home. Use your ceiling fans if the are available. The increased air circulation will help control moisture.
- Buy a dehumidifier. These are great for pulling moisture out of the air. If your home has a tendency to be humid then one or several of these will help remove the moisture and thus prevent mold growth.
- Keep an eye on carpets that are laid on concrete floors. Carpet is a great place for moisture to collect and thus biological pollutants to grow. Thinner and lighter area rugs might a better choice as these are usually easier to clean and maintain.
- Purchase and install a humidistat. This device will help you monitor the humidity levels in your home. It is usually connected to the air conditioning system and allows you to control the moisture. These are popular in a temperate climate like the Southeast of the Unites States.
