Some people are surprised to learn that mold can grow during the winter. They believe that it doesn’t usually develop when temperatures drop below 60 degrees F. But winter doesn’t kill off mold, and some species can grow where it’s very cold. Some mold simply goes dormant, and it can easily “wake up” in a home that’s kept both warm and humid during the winter months. Here are ways to prevent this.

Keep Indoor Humidity Low

Mold thrives in areas where the humidity is over 60%. This means keeping wet rooms, such as your kitchen and bathroom, as dry and clean as possible. You should also check around windows and make sure to thoroughly dry laundry before putting it away. If it’s tough to keep the humidity low in your home with these methods, invest in a dehumidifier.

Take Care When Storing Clothes and Other Gear

Many people put their summer clothes away for the winter in containers or boxes. They’ll then shove them into corners in the basement or the garage until it’s time to use them again. Make sure that the clothing or other gear is completely dry when it’s put away. Avoid putting it in cardboard boxes or any other container that can become damp.

Keep the Air Circulating

Good air circulation also prevents mold. Make sure the rooms in your home are well-ventilated. Sometimes, all it takes is opening a window on a mild day. Turning on a fan for a while is also useful. If you have a ceiling fan, make it run clockwise. This forces warmer air down and keeps surfaces dry.

Fix Leaks As Soon As Possible

Check for leaks in your plumbing pipes or have a professional plumber do it. Repair leaks or call someone to fix them as soon as possible to discourage mold.

Check Outdoor Sources of Water

Make sure there’s no standing water in outside areas, such as gutters or French drains. This water can enter your home and allow mold to grow.

Add Insulation to Cold Areas

Condensation occurs when cold areas come into contact with warmer air. Because of this, it’s a good idea to insulate places, such as your attic, basement or crawl space. If you find gaps around your doors or windows, have them sealed up to keep cold air out.

Call Us for Mold Mitigation

Mold is a ghastly thing to have growing anywhere in or on your home. If your home needs to be tested for mold, call Complete Detail Cleaning & Restoration of Troy, OH.