Water damage is something no homeowner wants to experience; however, sometimes, the circumstances are outside your control, and it can’t be avoided. Whether it’s due to a burst pipe or flooding from excessive rain, water damage becomes more problematic when it leads to mold growth. However, there are a few water damage repairs that can make mold growth less likely and keep the property protected.

How to Prevent Mold Growth in Homes 

1. Dry the Area Immediately

The longer any moisture is left on the ground, the more likely it is that mold will begin to grow. Thoroughly drying the affected area as soon as possible is the first step in water damage repair. After, address the source of the problem. For example, fix the busted pipe or reapply weather seals to all the windows and doors.

2. Check the Ventilation

Non-moving, stale air makes conditions more conducive for mold growth. As such, once everything has been dried, make sure the proper ventilation system is installed. Simple steps, like running fans in bathrooms and laundry rooms or ensuring moisture-yielding appliances are venting outdoors, will help prevent the need for mold removal services.

3. Control the Humidity

Humidity levels also play a role in mold growth, so following an accident or storm damage cleanup, make sure to monitor the levels inside of your home. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends keeping levels between 30 and 50% to prevent mold growth, so if you find levels higher than that, run a dehumidifier to lower it back to the ideal zone.

4. Monitor Outdoor Drainage

If rain water isn’t draining away from the home properly, it can penetrate the home and lead to mold growth. To prevent this, clear the gutters of any debris and make sure that the downspouts are angled to maximize drainage. If needed, have the property graded as well.

 

If your home has experienced flooding, avoid the need for mold restoration by scheduling water damage repairs with the experts at Restoration 1 of Colorado Springs in Castle Rock, CO. With more than 20 years of disaster recovery experience, their team of licensed clean-up professionals have helped local residents recover when disaster strikes, and they’ll provide fast and reliable water damage restoration to keep your home from developing a mold problem. Schedule an appointment by calling (719) 427-6086 or learn more about their offerings online.