1. Identify problem areas in your home and correct them
Do an audit of your home, typical questions would include:
- Where are the problem areas?
- Does the area under the house flood?
- Is there a water stain on the ceiling from a leak?
Preventing mould from growing or spreading might be as simple as ripping up a damp carpet or repairing damaged gutters.
2. Dry wet areas immediately
Mould can’t grow without moisture, try and dry any wet areas straight away.
3. Prevent moisture with proper ventilation
4. Equip your home with mould-resistant products
If you are building a new home or renovating an old one, use mould-resistant products like mould-resistant drywall and mould inhibitors for paints.
5. Monitor humidity indoors
The EPA recommends keeping indoor humidity between 30 and 60 percent. You can measure humidity with a moisture meter purchased from your local hardware store.
6. Direct water away from your home
If the ground around your home isn’t sufficiently sloped away from the foundation, water may collect there and seep into the area under the house.
7. Clean or repair roof gutters
A mould problem might be a simple matter of a roof that is leaking because of full or damaged gutters. Have your roof gutters cleaned regularly and inspected for damage. Repair them as necessary, and keep an eye out for water stains after storms that may indicate a leak.
8. Improve air flow in your home
Increase circulation by opening doors between rooms, move furniture away from walls, and open doors to wardrobes that may be colder than the rooms they are in. Let fresh air in to reduce moisture and keep mould at bay.
