Dealing with indoor mold is never pleasant, but knowing your options can make removing and preventing mold easier. With that in mind, here are some tips for homeowners in Gurnee, Illinois.
Do Your Research
When you find mold in your home, it’s natural to want it gone as quickly as possible. However, before you start scrubbing, you should take the time to investigate. Mold needs both moisture and organic matter to grow. Unless you neutralize the source of each, any cleanup will be a band-aid solution, and the problem will recur.
Address the Moisture
Once you’ve figured out the water source, you will need to either eliminate or ventilate the moisture. This may be as simple as running the exhaust fan in your bathroom or placing a portable dehumidifier in your basement. However, if you have found spots of mold throughout your entire home, a more drastic solution may be in order. Consider upgrading your home’s ventilation and investing in a whole-home dehumidifier.
Clean and Remove
Depending on where the mold is growing and how much of it there is, you may be able to easily wipe it away with cleaning solution and a damp cloth. Mold can be scrubbed off of hard surfaces, but porous surfaces (such as drywall and carpeting) will need to be replaced. While cleaning, be sure to wear gloves, goggles, and a respirator mask for safety. Depending on how extensive the problem is, you may want to hire a professional to deal with the mold.
Call an HVAC Pro
Mold can hide in several places you might not expect, including in your HVAC system. If you’ve found mold in your home, consider scheduling a HVAC maintenance visit so that a professional can check your ducts and other components. An HVAC technician can even install a UV lamp to prevent mold from growing on your system’s indoor coils.
If you need help managing the humidity in your home, give Ireland Heating & Air a call at 847-388-0108. We offer several indoor air quality products and services that can help prevent mold and keep your family comfortable.
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