Mold remediation is a multiple-step process that involves identifying and removing existing mold as well as preventing its future growth. This final step is critical for complete remediation since the conditions that led to the initial growth often remain after cleaning. Also, homes with previous mold growth can sometimes have elevated interior spore levels, increasing the odds of future growth.

Fortunately, the proper mold prevention techniques can ensure your home remains mold-free, even if you're recovering from a severe prior problem. The best prevention choices will depend on the steps you've already taken for mold removal, your budget, and your ability to make major renovations. This guide will cover three common options for ensuring mold stays out of your home.

1. Address Moisture Issues  

Keeping your home dry is the most important thing you can do to stop mold growth. Home environments are typically too dry for mold to take hold, so mold growth almost always begins with an excessive moisture problem. While this option may not apply after acute events such as floods, it's critical to consider when mold develops seemingly out of the blue.

In these cases, it's best to work with a mold control service to identify any sources of excessive moisture in your home. For example, unvented bathrooms can be a substantial issue, as can damp basements. Installing dehumidifiers or window fans can often be relatively inexpensive options that can help reduce moisture below the level where mold will form.

2. Use Mold Inhibiting Primer

Drywall and wood are two of the easiest places in your home for mold to take root. These surfaces contain rich organic matter while being porous enough for mold roots to extend deeply into the material. Unfortunately, it's often incredibly difficult to permanently remove mold from these materials, which can be a major problem when dealing with structural elements.

In these cases, mold-inhibiting primers can be a good long-term solution. These primers contain fungicides that kill mold on contact, although they typically won't reach mold living deeper in the material. To prevent this mold from returning, it's often a good idea to use a sealer in addition to the primer.

3. Remove Affected Surfaces

For non-structural elements, the best long-term prevention method is often to remove surfaces heavily impacted by mold. In particular, cloth furniture or drywall can often be a source of recurring mold problems. Once these materials become wet, they can be difficult to dry thoroughly, and mold may remain in deep areas that are impossible to reach.

Removing these materials guarantees that the mold is gone for good, reducing a potential source of spores that can spread elsewhere in your home. If you're working with a professional remediation and prevention company, they can usually help you understand which parts of your home may be too deeply affected by mold to save.

For more info, contact a home mold prevention service.