Mold and mildew are not only unsightly but also pose health hazards. Though you might associate them with humidity, they can still take hold during the winter months when the clash between cold and heated air creates condensation or other moisture is present. If the problem remains untreated, you may need to call in a professional restoration company, so take these preventative steps instead.

How to Avoid Mold & Mildew Growth During Winter

1. Remove Excess Humidity With Vents

In areas where you use a lot of water, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms, ensure that you have vents that let vapor escape through the roof. If your vents are already installed, they should continue to the outside rather than ending in the attic or crawl space.

2. Keep Floors Clean & Dry 

Regularly clean your floors, particularly if you have carpeting where moisture can linger. If you have a spill or leak, mop up the water quickly before it can seep into baseboards.

Remove carpeting from your entryway, where it can get wet from melted snow and slush. Instead, use small area rugs that can go in the washing machine.

3. Identify & Fix Leaks

In addition to plumbing issues, roof and window leaks can let water into your home. Examine windows, walls, and pipes for drips and condensation, and get all leaks repaired as soon as possible.

4. Keep Outside Runoff Away From the House

Clean debris out of gutters and downspouts, and grade the area beneath downspouts to run away from your home so water leaves rather than pooling around it. Where possible, make sure the foundation is set higher than the land around it so water flows away from it.

5. Insulate

Insulate your pipes inside and out to prevent them from freezing and bursting. Ensure your home is well-insulated, and install double-glazed windows to eliminate condensation within the glass. 

6. Increase Air Circulation

Set ceiling fans on reverse to circulate warm air and reduce humidity. You can also open windows a crack for a few minutes at a time.

7. Properly Store Delicate Items

Paper and fabric items like books and clothing are prone to mold growth, so store them away from condensation and humidity. For example, avoid attics and windows.

 

With over 20 years of experience in the Lincoln, NE, area, All Care Restorations is the company to trust if you run into issues with mold or mildew this winter. The restoration company handles water, fire, and smoke damage as well as carpet cleaning. Their staff is continually trained on the best practices for deodorization, biohazard removal, and mold remediation. If you have an emergency, their team is available 24/7 to deal with the problem before it gets worse. Call the restoration company at (402) 421-3779 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their qualifications.