March 22nd, 2021
Spring is just around the corner. That means an end to the cold, harsh weather of winter and the beginning of warm sunny days. However, with the transition of these seasons, also comes a lot of excess moisture. Snowmelt and spring rains can raise the water table level in the ground. This can put your home at risk for moisture-related issues like mold. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take now to help prevent the development of the mold during the spring. Here are five tips:
Clear Your Gutters
Over the winter, your gutters can get clogged with a lot of debris. Your gutters can also get damaged from harsh winters, ice dams, and icicles. Your gutter system is crucial for directing water away from your home. As soon as the weather is nice, inspect, clean, and repair any issues with your gutter system. This will help keep your home dry and prevent the growth of mold.
Check Your Plumbing
Pipes can freeze during winter. In extreme cases, this will cause the pipe to burst and flood your home. However, these extreme temperatures can also cause cracks and loosen seals. This can lead to small leaks which can lead to the buildup of moisture and ultimately, mold in your home. So check all your plumbing fixtures to make sure there are no leaks or condensation. If you notice any issues, have a plumber come and repair the issue before they lead to a larger problem like mold.
Get A Humidity Gauge
Humidity gauges are really affordable, usually costing around $10 at a hardware store. This will help you monitor the moisture in your home’s air. Make sure your home’s moisture level stays between 30-50%. If it goes above that, turn on your dehumidifier to help reduce the moisture levels. Keeping your home’s humidity level at these safe percentages will help reduce the risk of developing mold.
Check Your Sump Pump
Spring weather is notorious for causing flooding. If you have a basement or a crawl space under your home, make sure to test your sump pump. If your sump pump is in good working order, it will help reduce the risk of your home flooding. Reducing your flood risk will also reduce your risk of developing mold.
Check Your Windows And Doors
Weatherstripping around ceilings and doors not only prevents cold and hot air from entering your home but also blocks moisture. Over time, however, weather stripping can degrade becoming loose, brittle, or torn. A good way to monitor your weatherstripping is by looking for condensation on your window panes and doors. If you notice this, dry the area and replace the weather stripping. This will help block moisture and reduce the risk of mold.
These five tips will help you prevent the buildup of mold this Spring. Another great idea is to schedule an annual inspection with the mold experts at Meridian Foundation Repair and Waterproofing. We’ll investigate your home and identify any areas of risk. Then help you put together a strategy to reduce your chance of developing mold. Give us a call today to learn more.