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SERVPROSERVPRO of Fernandina Beach / Jacksonville Northeast
Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration™
(904) 729-2401

Mold Prevention Tips - Preventing Mold Before It Happens

5/16/2014 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Fernandina Beach Yulee and North Jacksonville Tips for preventing mold growth before it happens.

Following these tips will help you prevent mold before it happens.

  • When water leaks or spills occur indoors - ACT QUICKLY.  If wet or damp materials or areas are dried 24-48 hours after a leak or spill happens, in most cases mold will not grow.
  • Clean and repair roof gutters regularly.
  • Make sure the ground slopes away from the building foundation, so that water does not enter or collect around the foundation.
  • Keep air-conditioning drip pans clean and the drain lines unobstructed and flowing properly.
  •  Keep indoor humidity low.  If possible, keep indoor humidity below 60 percent (ideally between 30 and 50 percent) relative humidity.  Relative humidity can be measured with a moisture or humidity meter. 
  • If you see condensation or moisture collecting on windows, walls or pipes ACT QUICKLY to dry the wet surface and reduce the moisture/water source.  Condensation can be a sign of high humidity.

    • Actions that will help prevent condensation

  • Reduce the humidity.
  • Increase ventilation or air movement by opening doors and/or windows, when practical.  Use fans as needed.
  • Cover cold surfaces, such as cold water pipes, with insulation.
  • Increase air temperature.

    • The key to mold control is moisture control. Solve moisture problems before they become mold problems!

  • Fix leaky plumbing and leaks in the building envelope as soon as possible.
  • Watch for condensation and wet spots. Fix source(s) of moisture problem(s) as soon as possible.
  • Prevent moisture due to condensation by increasing surface temperature or reducing the moisture level in air (humidity). To increase surface temperature, insulate or increase air circulation. To reduce the moisture level in air, repair leaks, increase ventilation (if outside air is cold and dry), or dehumidify (if outdoor air is warm and humid).
  • Keep heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) drip pans clean, flowing properly, and unobstructed.
  • Vent moisture-generating appliances, such as dryers, to the outside where possible.
  • Maintain low indoor humidity, below 60% relative humidity (RH), ideally 30-50%, if possible.
  • Perform regular building/HVAC inspections and maintenance as scheduled.
  • Clean and dry wet or damp spots within 48 hours.
  • Don't let foundations stay wet. Provide drainage and slope the ground away from the foundation.

    • For more information on mold cleanup and restoration please visit our SERVPRO® Mold Cleanup & Restoration page. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment call us today at (904) 729-2402 and don't worry about what time it is, we are open 24 hours!   

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