The following suggestions can assist you in preventing future outbreaks of mold in your home:
- Turn on bathroom exhaust fan for 10 minutes after showering/bathing. Routinely clean exhaust fans of dirt and dust accumulation.
- Check sprinkler systems to ensure properly aligned sprays and that the sprinklers are not located too close to residential walls.
- Perform routine inspections to plumbing fixtures to identify possible water leaks.
- Trim trees and plants to prevent them from abutting your home’s exterior. Plants can hold moisture upon your home surface in addition to blocking the necessary sunlight to dry up exterior surfaces.
- Examine outside painted surfaces for cracks and deterioration as paint acts as a barrier to moisture.
- Position items in rooms so as to prevent overcrowding and cluttering. A cluttered area can prevent proper air ventilation and lead to excessive dust accumulation.
- Use of dehumidifiers can decrease indoor moistures levels.
- Tiles should be properly sealed and caulked to prevent water infiltration.
- Remain alert to cracks in siding, stucco walls, etc., as these can permit water intrusion.
- Keep gutters free of debris and position gutter downspouts away from the residential structure. Downspouts terminating too close to a home can lead to water intrusion.
- Make sure dryer is properly ventilated outside. If improperly vented, warm, moist dryer air can promote viable conditions for mold growth.