Here are a few tips to help protect your family. Some may seem obvious but many folks don’t always think about it.
- Use an air purifier equipped with a HEPA filter and UV light. The HEPA filter screens out bacteria and mold spores from the air going as small as .3 microns. Most all bacteria are slightly larger at .39 microns (or larger) or 390 nanometers. The UV light renders the bacteria and endotoxins created by the bacteria harmless within a few minutes.
- Keep a sharp eye out for potential leaks. These can sometimes be detected by noticing discolorations of materials or a change in the ‘look’ of the materials due to water or moisture absorption. Check the obvious areas such as under kitchen and bathroom sinks and even next to bathtubs and showers as water can seep under baseboards through normal use and cause mold growth. Inspect these areas every week.
- Be sure that baseboards next to high water use areas, such as bathtubs and showers, are caulked at the bottom where these meet the floor, sides, and top. This keeps the water from getting behind the baseboards and absorbing into the drywall to cause mold and bacteria growth.
- Maintain good home hygiene. Have a regular schedule to clean your home, especially kitchens and bathrooms.
- Make sure the outside soil grade (dirt level) is about 6 inches below the stucco weep screed, wood siding, or top of the foundation. This helps keep rain and sprinkler water from intruding into your home.
Steve Mullins (i.e. Mold Detector)
Certified Microbial Consultant (CMC)
Moisture and Mold Detection, Inc.