Watch Out For Mold and Mildew This Winter!

Mold growth and mildew are not just summer afflictions. In fact, mold and mildew are intensified during the winter months, especially in Virginia. As the weather gets cooler and wetter, homeowners tend to lock down their homes to keep warm air inside; and if a home has energy-efficient treatments, it is heavily insulated and traps moisture. Without circulation of fresh air, airborne spores can increase the likelihood of mold and mildew stains in the home; and as the mold grows, it compromises the strength and integrity of your structure.

Common Areas for Mold Growth in Winter

In a warm house, mold and mildew can grow in the following areas:

• The exterior of drywall, sheetrock, and corners of the room
• Basements
• Attics
• Crawl spaces
• Behind a wall
• Under flooring
• Above ceiling tiles
• Bathrooms/showers

Tips to Prevent Mold and Mildew in Winter

• Keep indoor humidity between 35%-45% or below 60%.
• Place a dehumidifier in the room to lower moisture levels.
• Put ceiling fans in reverse.
• Clean ductwork, filters, and air conditioning (HVAC) drip pans.
• Clean and repair gutters.
• Use an exhaust fan after cooking and washing dishes.
• Open windows after showering.
• Repair foundation cracks in the basement.
• If you have water leaks, inspect the outside drainage system.
• Cover the soil in the crawl space with a vapor barrier. If your crawl space has vents, close them in the summer and open them during the winter months.
• Repair roof and window leaks.
• Open closet doors to allow the air to circulate.
• Install a waterproofing system, such as a sump pump.

The number one key to preventing mold and mildew is to keep your home dry and clean. If you need a professional to assess your property for signs of moisture, contact our experts today. We’ll locate the source and provide a waterproofing solution to reduce moisture levels. We’ll ensure a safe, dry, and mold-free home in Virginia. Give Basement Masters Waterproofing a call today at (571) 371-0960.

This post was originally published on 12/5/2016 and updated on 11/30/2021 for accuracy and a larger scope of information.