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Find, Prevent, and Remove Mold

Crawl Spaces

Mold is a group of organisms that belong to the kingdom Fungi. Mold thrives in damp, dark areas such as pipes, closed in ductwork, and roof materials, which is why it is most prevalent in crawl spaces. Crawl spaces provide dark areas full of moisture, the ideal climate for mold. Most mold in buildings is the result of insufficient insulation.

Cleanup

If you find mold, it is not advisable to clean it yourself, as you could release harmful spores into the environment. Mold cleanup is best left to experienced professionals, especially if you have allergies. If you must come in contact with mold for any reason, make sure to protect yourself. Wear plastic gloves, a dust mask, and eye protection whenever you will be near mold.

Clean

The best way to prevent mold in your home or office is to keep things as clean as possible. Clean up all spills immediately, as failure to do so could allow mold to grow. Clean gutters, air conditioning drip pans, drain lines, and other water flow sources on a regular basis, and check for leaks as well. If there are crawl spaces, or other small areas in your home, ensure they are properly insulated, and check them often.

Moisture

Keeping your home or work environment's humidity levels down will also help prevent mold. To reduce the humidity in your environment, make sure any moisture-producing appliances, such as dryers and stoves, are well ventilated. When taking a shower, use the bathroom fan or open a window to let steam out. If you live in a humid climate, consider getting an air dehumidifier for your home. If you are in a rented property, report all leaks or moisture problems immediately. Mold is a health hazard and should not be ignored.