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Mold Prevention and Remediation in Homes and Apartments
Understanding Mold
Mold is a common household issue, especially in damp and humid environments. It can cause health issues, particularly for those with respiratory problems, allergies, or compromised immune systems. Mold prevention and timely remediation are key to maintaining a safe and healthy living space.
There is no test for mold!
If you see it, or there's a musty smell in your home, you can assume there's mold somewhere. The Bridgewater Health Department cannot test for mold and the CDC does not recommend testing. There are no "mold standards" set forth by any State or Federal entities (whether it be for airborne concentration(s) and/or mold spores), even after sampling, you would not be able to conclude from the results or compare the results to "safe levels"
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How to Prevent Mold Growth
1. Control Humidity Levels- Keep indoor humidity below 60% (ideally between 30 - 50%). Use dehumidifiers if necessary, especially in basements and bathrooms.
- EPA’s Guide to Indoor Air Quality
- Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove moisture. Ensure that appliances like dryers vent outside the home.
- Open windows and doors on dry days to improve air circulation and reduce moisture.
- Promptly fix any leaks in the roof, windows, or plumbing to prevent water from accumulating indoors. Address flooding issues immediately.
- Check your home’s foundation for cracks where water might seep in.
- Clean and dry areas prone to moisture (like bathroom tiles and window sills) frequently.
- Use mold-killing products, like a bleach solution or commercial mold cleaners, for surfaces that tend to get wet often.
- Mold often appears as black, green, or white spots on walls, ceilings, or floors. Musty odors can also indicate hidden mold growth.
- Regularly inspect damp areas like basements, attics, bathrooms, and around plumbing fixtures.