Moisture and mold can be silent killers in your home. Not only can moisture wear away at the foundation of your home and damage flooring, baseboards, furniture, and appliances, but it can also cause chronic, debilitating illness for those exposed. Perhaps even more alarming is the fact that many renters and homeowners don’t know there’s moisture because it hides in places that aren’t always visible or accessible.
The first step you can take as a homeowner is to simply learn more about this common issue. Understanding how to prevent moisture problems, the most common signs that there is excess moisture in your home, and the appropriate steps to take to address moisture issues and safely remove mold will empower you to best protect your home and family. Here, we’ll share everything you need to know.
Moisture and Mold
You may have too much moisture in your home if you notice condensation on your windows during cold months, more mildew in your shower or bathroom than you’ve seen in other homes, areas of mold growth in the home, or peeling or cracking paint. Chronic allergies can also be a sign of too much moisture in your home.
It’s also important to understand how moisture gets into your home in the first place. Some sources are natural and beneficial: breathing, plants, cooking, and showering all add moisture to your home environment. However, sometimes moisture creeps in through compromised foundations, leaks in your plumbing system, or faulty appliances. In some cases, excess moisture builds up because the house is lacking appropriate fans and hoods designed to remove excess moisture (or because these fixtures have failed).
How to Get Rid of Moisture in Home
There are steps you can take to reduce the moisture in your home:
- install appropriate ventilation, such as bathroom fans and range hoods
- make sure you, and others who live in your home, are turning fans and hoods on when showering or cooking
- reduce the temperature and length of showers
- keep your home warm
- vent clothes dryers outside the home
- store firewood outside; it releases additional moisture into your home
- clear your gutters periodically to direct rainwaters away from the home
- invest in a dehumidifier if necessary
While these steps can all help, hiring a professional can help you diagnose the most impactful moisture sources, identify any damage that has occurred as a result, and safely remove any dangerous molds that have grown as a result of the moist conditions in your home.
Contact H&H Pest Control and Waterproofing
The experts at H&H Pest Control & Waterproofing in Shelby, North Carolina, have extensive experience in waterproofing homes to protect the integrity of the home and the health of its inhabitants. Avoid playing the guessing game while your home is degraded by excessive moisture by reaching out to those who know exactly what to look for and how to correct it.
In business since 1974, the professionals at H&H Pest Control & Waterproofing have seen it all and provide moisture control, moisture barrier, mold removal, and waterproofing services. Rest assured the services you receive will leave you feeling confident that your home is both protected and protecting you from the harmful side effects of excessive moisture and mold.
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