Protection From Rainy Season Mold
Clear Gutters and Drains
One of the first things you should do to ensure that your home is prepared to cope with heavy rainfall in Fort Myers, Bonita Springs or Naples is to clear your gutters of leaves and twigs that may have accumulated throughout the year. Any blockages will cause rainwater to seek alternatives routes that could result in overflowing causing damage to your home.
It is also important to check any street drains in front of your home. If you think there is a blockage you should call your local public works department in Fort Myers, Bonita Springs or Naples to handle the blockage.
Check the Roof
One of the main culprits of water damage is rainwater coming through the roof. Due to the volume of water that falls in a short space of time, damage can be quick in Fort Myers, Bonita Springs or Naples. Ideally you should get your roof checked once a year to identify any problems by a certified contractor. Common components an inspector will examine are the overall appearance of the roof, evidence of ceiling cracks and leaks, broken or missing shingles, and damaged or missing flashing points.
Cover Air Vents
Air vents are one of the most common ways that water finds its way into a house. If you know you’re in for some heavy rain, or are at risk of flooding, make sure that you cover these from both the outside and the inside with thick plastic sheeting.
Never Underestimate Good Ventilation
You can reduce your risks of mold growth by effective ventilation in Fort Myers, Bonita Springs and Naples.
Every home has appliances that create moisture (such as stoves, driers etc.), but it’s important to make sure these are being vented outdoors rather than running up to your attic, allowing the moisture to escape.
Buy a Relative Humidity Device
One of your best tools against mold is to have a Relative Humidity Device to measure “RH” (relative humidity).
With one of these devices, you will be able to keep an eye on your humidity levels and address the cause of dampness as soon as possible. How will you know when to take moisture control action? According to the EPA, levels should be kept at between 30 and 60 percent – anything over this in your home, and you should pay attention to potential condensation, leaking pipes, or damp patches on walls. You can find these at your local hardware store in Fort Myers, Bonita Springs and Naples.
Dry Dampness Without Delay
As mold thrives on moisture, you must be quick to tackle any signs of dampness. Wet areas created by rain seeping through a hole in your ceiling should be addressed as soon as possible. If you just leave them to dry by themselves, you could endanger yourself, your property’s structural integrity, and your family.
Use a dehumidifier and open your windows from time to time to allow moisture to escape. Obviously, you may be unable to do this in pouring rain, so take the opportunity whenever it presents itself. Also, if you see condensation forming anywhere, wipe it down immediately.
As we enter rainy season in Fort Myers, Bonita Springs and Naples you can be proactive in preventing a mold bloom in your home. If you feel that you need to have a mold inspection contact iMold.us to find out how we can provide you with a free mold inspection.