How do You Handle Mold in Your Home?

One of the best ways to stop mold in your home is to keep it from showing up in the first place.  Of course, that may be easier said than done if you live in a particularly humid area or if your home is older.  But prevention is the key to keeping any signs of mold in your home away.

There can be different types of mold in your home- some of which can cause health problems if inhaled.  Make sure your home is well ventilated and does not have any moisture pockets where that dangerous mold can start to grow.  If you do notice any wet spots, be sure to dry them thoroughly within 24 hours so that mold will not have a chance to grow.  Keep a fan on in the bathroom when the shower is running to keep moisture from building up.

At the first sign of mold, be sure to scrub it clean using detergent and water. Allow the treated area to dry thoroughly so that mold will not return.  Be sure you wear a mask if you have any aversion to breathing in mold spores.  If you can not tackle the problem on your own, or you are not sure how to do it contact a professional that is well versed in how to clean up mold.  For more information on how to clean up mold, check out the Environmental Protection Agency’s guide to mold at http://www.epa.gov/mold/moldguide.html. There you will find great tips on how to remove mold yourself or what to look for in a professional.

Talk with your insurance carrier to find out if you have coverage for mold remediation.  In some cases, your regular homeowners’ policy may cover you, but in others you may need to have mold coverage added to your policy for an additional premium in order to be reimbursed for damages.

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