Mold can be a serious problem for homeowners. In addition to the unpleasant appearance and smell, the spores can exacerbate respiratory problems, like asthma and allergies, or even cause skin irritation. Regular mold testing will help ensure your home is clean, but there are also some preventive steps you can take to limit the chances of it growing in the first place.

How to Keep Mold Out of Your Home

1. Direct Water Away

Mold is most common in areas where there’s a lot of moisture, so if you can limit the amount of standing water or damp surfaces around your property, you can dramatically reduce the chances of a mold problem.

Make sure your gutters and downspouts are in optimal condition to prevent water damage through your foundation and into your basement. The ground around your exterior should also be graded slightly so water on that level flows away from your house.

Inside, clean spills quickly and get plumbing leaks or drips addressed right away.

2. Improve Airflow

Even with these steps, you can’t stop all moisture from entering your home, but you can make sure it dries quickly with proper ventilation. In areas where steam or moisture is plentiful, like over stovetops and near showers, install exhaust fans so that humidity can escape. You should also run a dehumidifier to draw moisture from the air.

3. Check Problem Areas Regularly

Once mold starts, it can spread quickly, so early detection is key. In addition to periodic mold testing, go through areas where moisture tends to collect to look out for visible signs of mold or musty smells. These areas include basements, bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and in bathrooms.

If you suspect a mold problem, have it sampled and call a remediation company right away. Attempting to clean it yourself can disturb the spores in such a way that they contaminate other areas of your home as well.

If you need mold testing or removal, call A-1 Mold Testing & Remediation Services. With locations in Lincoln and Omaha, NE, the company works with both homeowners and businesses throughout Nebraska, Iowa, and Kansas, offering testing, remediation, inspections, and sampling. The team has access to quality equipment and years of experience and knowledge about various types of mold, meaning they can handle even the most advanced cases. Visit the company’s website to see a full list of services. To request assistance, call (402) 474-6653.