Wet weather in fall and winter can cause mold issues, especially as darker days set in. There are many different types of mold, and while some are only cosmetic issues, others can seriously harm both building and human health. In order to prevent mold issues, it’s important to take some proactive steps.
Check Your Attic for Moisture
Since attics don’t receive as much ventilation and airflow are other areas of the house, it’s essential to regularly check your attic for signs of moisture. At least once a week, inspect the ceiling, sides, and floor for any signs of excessive moisture. These include ponding water, wet areas, and a damp smell. You can also utilize a humidity sensor to give you an accurate humidity reading. If the sensor reads that the humidity level is greater than 50%, you’ll need to take action to lower the humidity.
It’s also a good idea to check your attic ceiling for any leaks. To do this, inspect your attic after a period of heavy rain. If you see any drips or leaks, make sure to patch them before the rains and snow of fall and winter arrive.
Check Your Basement for Moisture
Since basements sit at least partially underground, they’re prone to water issues. Frequent rains and low temperatures during the fall and winter months often cause saturated ground, which can lead to high basement moisture levels. If your home lacks proper drainage or grading, heavy rains can also lead to water entering the basement.
To catch problems before they spiral out of control, check your basement each week for any puddles or wet spots. If you notice any problem areas, investigate their cause. Some common causes of excessive moisture include a broken gutter, leaking interior pipe, or cracks in the foundation.
It’s also a good idea to read the overall air moisture level with a humidity sensor. If the humidity level is too high, you can end up with mold issues.
Consider Getting a Dehumidifier
If you notice high moisture levels in your home, you’ll need to take action to prevent any mold issues. While fans can sometimes be an adequate solution, a dehumidifier is a more effective choice. These appliances remove excessive humidity from the air, so a room stays at an ideal moisture level. All you need to do is empty your dehumidifier when it is full of water.
Bay State Mold Removal: MA’s Premiere Mold Removal Experts
To help prevent mold issues during the fall and winter months, inspect and prepare your house ahead of time. Pay careful attention to the attic and basement and install a humidifier to keep high moisture levels in check. If you suspect or know that your home or business has mold growth, contact us immediately for professional mold removal.