Why Heavy Rains Trigger Mold Troubles
Up in the Northeast, we’ve seen lots of rain these past few months. This has not been a good season for keeping our homes dry. Areas that already have problems, such as areas hit by Hurricane Sandy, are still suffering.
There are a few ways that heavy rains can cause water problems in a home. Clogged gutters can back up under the eaves and drip water into the home. Improper drainage of rainwater away from a home can cause water to accumulate near the foundation and make its way through the basement walls.
If water gets under a crawl space and remains there, it will crate a large mount of humidity that can help grow mold. This can be a big problem when there are days of heavy rain and very humid weather.
Mold and fungus building up in your walls or wooden structures could mean that you will need to replace your floor or other parts of your home. That can cost thousands – and if you live in New York or New Jersey, it might not be something your insurance will cover.
Combat mold growth during the damp summer weather
You can help prevent mold growth in your home by keeping the humidity levels low (about 40 to 60%%). Use a dehumidifier in the basement, and run it from April to October. If you are unable to keep humidity levels within that level, then you may have a moisture problem that should be addressed by a professional.
Make sure that you fix any existing roof, wall and plumbing leaks. Check regularly to make sure no new leaks appear.
Exhaust fans should be installed in areas of high humidity such as bathrooms, attics and kitchens. Your ventilation and air exhaust systems should be updated to keep moisture out and away from your home.
If you do have a water emergency, be sure to remove any water-logged carpets and dry flooded areas within 24-48 hours of the occurrence. If the damage is extensive, it’s recommended to have professional water extraction performed to prevent future mold and structural problems.
H&H Environmental Construction and Consulting provides mold testing and removal services for homes and businesses in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. Call us today for more information!