Here’s how to prevent mould in your home
As a homeowner, preventative maintenance is the key to maintaining your home’s value over time. It’s especially important to be proactive about mould prevention.
Mould isn’t only damaging to your house; it has detrimental health impacts as well. Here are five tips for preventing mould in your home to protect your investment and your well-being.
Find the Problem Areas
Above all else, mould loves moisture. Take some time to audit your home and determine where the potential problem spots are. Focusing on these areas is a smart starting point when considering mould prevention. Common offenders include spaces near the windows, the basement, and bathrooms.
If you’re concerned about mould, consider having a mould inspector come to take a look around. They will be able to tell you which areas need to be addressed, as well as outline the most efficient way to remove mould for your situation.
Prioritize Ventilation
Ensuring that your home is well-ventilated is essential for preventing moisture and mould growth. If you don’t have a fan in your bathroom, it’s worth the investment to have one installed. Additionally, use fans when cooking on the stove and ensure that your dryer vent is clear.
Having an air exchanger in place can assist with ventilation as well. You should also consider having a dehumidifier installed in your basement if you live in a wet area.
Don’t Forget Landscaping
While your primary battle against mould growth will take place inside the home, there’s plenty you can do outside for further protection. Use various drainage and landscaping techniques to redirect water away from your home. Not only will this help prevent moisture, but it will also limit your chances of a flood.
Ideally, your yard will be graded away from your house with the ground near your foundation a few feet higher than the “bottom” of your yard. If you live on a slope or at the bottom of a hill, consider installing a French drain and plants that will help absorb water as it runs past.
Gutter maintenance also goes a long way to prevent mould growth and moisture in the home. Be sure to clean your gutters seasonally. Keep an eye on your downspouts to ensure that water is exiting where it should instead of overflowing in your eavestrough. Installing longer downspouts that empty water at least three feet away from your home is also beneficial. Finally, practicing rainwater harvesting can prevent moisture while making for cost-efficient and eco-friendly landscaping.
Upgrade with Resistant Materials
There’s no need to rip out your walls and replace them if mould hasn’t taken hold. However, if you’re doing renovations, use newer, mould-resistant materials. For example, there are mould-resistant brands of drywall that use fiberglass rather than paper.
Rather than purchasing paint on sale, invest in high-quality paint that’s suitable for the area you’re renovating. Paint that’s labeled specifically for bathrooms and kitchens often has added moisture inhibitors. Be sure to add extra moisture barriers when working on external walls as well.
Dry Your Spills Immediately
It’s hard to believe that something so small could make a difference in the quality and longevity of your home. Yet, spilling a glass of water and failing to mop it up effectively can cause mould growth over time. The moisture seeps into the flooring and often pools underneath or gets into an area that’s hard to dry.
When there’s a spill, dry it as soon as possible. For added insurance, use a hairdryer after towel drying. Finally, it’s worth running a dehumidifier in that area for the day following the spill.
Mould Prevention Matters
By following these simple tips, you can prevent mould growth in your home and protect your investment and your family.