Summertime Conditions in Haddon Heights, Just Right For Mold Growth

7/14/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

Summertime traditionally brings family trips, school vacations, as well as plenty of hot uncomfortable weather. Those sunny days, however, often come with high humidity and afternoon thundershowers — ideal conditions for annoying and potentially toxic mold.

Mold is a fungus that can grow anywhere moisture is present. Mold spores thrive in warm temperatures (77- 86 degrees F) and wherever there are damp conditions. Mold spores are in the air, and they can grow on any surface. In a house, mold can be found in ceilings and walls, under sinks, in drywall, hidden behind wallpaper or baseboards, in the ductwork or even on furniture and clothes. It can also grow outdoors under wood piles or mulch, gutters or abandoned trash. Mold in a house can lay dormant until it gets the needed heat and humidity to grow and multiply. For this reason, summer vacation is a great time for mold to thrive.

Here are three easy steps to help prevent mold when you go on vacation:

• Check for areas where water could accumulate — such as around windows, doors, bathroom leaks, kitchen sinks and washing machines.
• Clean surfaces of oil, soap, dust and dirt. Those materials are a feeding ground for mold when moisture is present.
• Set the temperature inside the house in the low 70s, if possible. If you suspect humidity, set a dehumidifier to keep the moisture level below 60 percent. In your closet, place a hanging moisture absorber that will trap excess humidity and eliminate musty odors.

Follow These Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

Stay out of affected areas.

Turn off the HVAC system and fans.

Contact SERVPRO of [[Franchise Name]] for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

Don’t touch or disturb the mold.

Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.

Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.

Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Haddon Heights / Voorhees specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (856) 566-3388