Sunrooms offer an excellent way to enjoy the pleasant aspects of nature—the sun on your face, the sound of the birds—while still experiencing the luxuries of indoor living. However, sometimes, the unwanted aspects of nature, such as mold and mildew, can make their way into your home addition. To keep these foul-smelling fungi out of your sunroom, take the following tips in stride.

3 Tips for Preventing Mold & Mildew Growth in Sunrooms

1. Clean Your Cushions

If you have sofas, chaise lounges, or armchairs with cushions, it’s important to clean them on a regular basis. Over time, soil, pollen, and dust can gather on the upholstery, whether they float in through the windows or fall off your clothing. When combined with humidity in the air, these particles act as the perfect food for mildew. To keep fungal growth at bay, vacuum your sunroom furniture at least once a week and use a sponge to scrub out stains.

2. Close the Windows

The daily weather forecast doesn’t only offer temperature information—it also forecasts the humidity levels for the day. To prevent mold and mildew growth in your sunroom, keep an eye on the daily moisture levels, and keep your windows and doors closed on especially humid days. By allowing the moist air to enter, you’ll create the ultimate breeding ground for mold spores.

3. Use Chemicals

If the humidity is impossible to escape, you can use moisture-absorbing chemicals to avoid the growth of mold and mildew. Silica gel—commonly seen in small white packets inside new purses, luggage, or shoes—as well as anhydrous calcium sulfate and activated alumina can suck up the moisture in your sunroom breathing supply so it doesn’t settle on surfaces. You can administer the chemicals by putting the small packets beneath the chair cushions, or placing an open container on a shelf, table, or bookcase.

If your sunroom has been damaged by mold or mildew growth, get in touch with Patio Solutions of East Rochester, NY. Since 1982, they’ve been installing sunrooms, retractable awnings, and covered patios. If your current home addition is in disrepair, they can replace it with a high-quality installation and give your family a brand-new outdoor entertainment area. To learn more about their impressive inventory, visit the website or call (585) 385-9999 to schedule a consultation.