When you take on a home improvement you should always consider whether the home improvement will help prevent or in some way encourage mold within your home because in addition to potential health risks, mold can seriously compromise the value of your home. Use the suggestions below to tackle home improvements with an eye towards mold.
When you're preparing walls during home improvements consider mold resistant drywall, as well as mold resistant paints for your walls. Mold resistance is only one quality of the paint that you'll likely pay attention to, since many homeowners are also looking for zero VOC paints to prevent potential for unhealthy air contamination. These paints frequently cost more but will not only provide you with piece of mind but will likely improve the air quality of your home.
Any product that guarantees a great seal and keeping air in or out is obviously beneficial to your power bill and usage, but can frequently contribute to mold in your home. Make sure that you have sufficient ventilation to prevent the growth of mold as part and parcel of any home improvement project designed to reduce energy costs by preventing outdoor air from flowing indoors.
Make certain that you fix leaks when they occur in order to prevent dampness. Dampness is a key contributor to mold.
If your home improvement project involves adding or replacing carpeting, be especially careful if carpeting is over a concrete slab as moisture from the slab can contribute to mold growth. Mold resistant carpets are also available.
Pay attention to over-cooling if you're installing a central air system. Don't set your new air conditioning system so low that condensation accumulates on windows. Condensation indicates dampness and can create conditions that will encourage mold growth.
Make certain that any anti-mold product you're using is designed for the use you're making of it. Paying attention to product directions is important in every cleansing agent you use. It's important to note that for mold, bleach is less desirable than antimicrobial cleansers sold as disinfectants.
Make sure that your climate control and air quality efforts avoid creating circumstances that encourage mold growth. New windows should open easily so that you can periodically air out your home. Remodels should not remove windows. If you use a humidifier, use it sparingly as it adds moisture to the air.
Make certain that your bathrooms have sufficient ventilation so that they dry quickly after showers and baths. You can crack a window or use a fan to help dry out dampness in the air. Consider using a free-standing fan (away from water to avoid electrical shock) as a means of drying out a bathroom that does not have a window while protecting dampness from getting into your ventilation system. Avoid using carpets on the floor in bathrooms as well.
Whenever you undertake home improvements you should also pay attention to how they might create conditions that promote the growth of mold. Use the suggestions above to preserve the air quality and value of your home by preventing mold growth.