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How to Get Rid of Airborne Mold Spores in Your House
Your house doors might be open for everyone, but for mold? They better remain firmly shut. This is especially important if you live in states like Texas, where high humidity levels create the perfect environment for mold growth. However, it’s not fair to place all the blame on humidity alone. Mold issues in your home can arise for various reasons.
Take, for instance, a homeowner who recently faced persistent mold problems due to several longstanding leaks in their house. For years, they managed to keep mold at bay by running a dehumidifier, using an air purifier, and regularly opening their windows for ventilation. But once the leaks worsened, mold took over, and now they’re constantly battling sore throats and feeling sick—even with their machines running and windows open.
This is just one story, but there are likely hundreds of similar cases across the U.S. The culprit? Airborne mold spores can cause a range of health issues, including allergies, respiratory problems, and even asthma attacks in severe cases.
We know, you must be thinking “Then, how to get rid of airborne mold spores?”. Don’t worry about that, in this blog, we’ll be discussing different ways to eliminate these tiny intruders and keep your home’s air clean and safe.
How to Get Rid of Mold Spores in Your House?
When mold becomes a persistent problem, even with regular use of dehumidifiers, air purifiers, and good ventilation, it’s time to take more aggressive measures. Here are advanced and more effective ways to eliminate mold spores from your home:
Fix Structural Issues and Water Intrusion Points
If you’re worried about mold, even if you have installed the best dehumidifiers and air purifiers, then it may be because moisture is constantly entering your home due to structural issues. So, it’s better to identify and repair the root causes of water intrusion, such as:
- Roof leaks
- Damaged window seals
- Cracks in the foundation
Plus, if your home has a history of moisture issues, you may consider installing proper drainage systems like French drains. In fact, you shall also waterproof your basement or crawl spaces as it will prevent further mold growth.
Conduct Professional Mold Remediation
When mold becomes a significant issue, professional mold remediation is one of the most effective solutions that you can think of. Mold remediation specialists use advanced techniques to locate hidden mold, thoroughly clean affected areas, and prevent future growth. Besides this, they might also use industrial-strength dehumidifiers, air scrubbers, and antimicrobials that are far more powerful than standard household equipment.
Replace Mold-Infested Materials
Sometimes, cleaning or treating surfaces isn’t enough, especially when mold penetrates porous materials like drywall, carpet, or insulation. If that’s the case with your home, then the only way you can completely eliminate mold spores is to remove and replace the affected materials.
So, what materials can you possibly replace? Any mold-infested carpeting, wallpaper, or ceiling tiles. Remember, replacing the materials isn’t just it. You also need to address the underlying moisture issues that can lead to mold in the first place.
Once you know how to test for mold on different surfaces, it will be easier to determine which materials are mold-infested.
Seal Air Leaks and Insulate Properly
Air leaks around doors, windows can let moisture to seep into your home. This will create ideal conditions for mold to thrive. To fix this issue, the best way is to properly seal your home and ensure it’s well-insulated which will help regulate humidity and temperature levels.
Yes, it might look like a minor measure, but it can go a long way in preventing mold formation. Besides this, insulated walls and crawl spaces are less likely to experience condensation – a major key factor in mold growth.
Use Antimicrobial Surface Treatments
Once you’ve addressed the moisture issue and removed visible mold, it will be great if you also apply antimicrobial treatment to mold-prone areas. By doing so, you will be able to create a proactive barrier that will prevent mold spores from taking hold again.
Upgrade Your HVAC System and Filters
Most of the time, mold spores circulate through your HVAC system. So, it is better to upgrade your system’s air filters to reduce airborne spores. Mold spores often circulate through your HVAC system, so upgrading your system’s air filters can help reduce airborne spores. Look for filters with a high MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating, ideally between 13 and 16. This can capture smaller particles, including mold spores. In some cases, it may be beneficial to install an HVAC system with built-in UV lights or ionization technology, which actively kills mold and other pathogens as air passes through.
Perform Regular Mold Inspections
You shall never miss out on regular mold inspections. Yes, even after you have completed mold remediation and repairs. This is the best way to detect mold in hidden areas like:
- Behind the walls
- In crawl spaces
- Under flooring
These are especially important in states like Texas that experience a humid climate and it becomes easy for mold to quickly take hold.
Does Lysol Kill Airborne Mold Spores?
Lysol can kill mold spores on hard surfaces, but it is not specifically designed to eliminate airborne mold spores. Lysol products, especially those labeled as disinfectants, contain ingredients like quaternary ammonium compounds that are effective at killing mold and mildew on non-porous surfaces. Examples of such surfaces are countertops, walls, and floors.
However, when it comes to airborne mold spores, Lysol is not the most effective solution. To address airborne mold spores, you may need other approaches like the ones highlighted above.
How Long Do Mold Spores Stay in the Air?
Mold spores can stay in the air for an extended period, ranging from several hours to even days. But it all depends on environmental conditions. However, the duration for how long mold spores remain airborne is influenced by different factors ranging from air circulation to humidity levels.
Conclusion
Even though dealing with airborne mold spores can seem like an overwhelming task, but you need to take a proactive approach. Simple measures like using dehumidifiers and air purifiers can help. But, if the issue persists, you’ll need to address underlying issues like moisture intrusion and consider professional remediation.
By fixing structural problems, improving your HVAC system, and regularly inspecting for hidden mold, you can create a healthier and safer living environment. Remember, mold thrives in places like Texas, which has a humid climate, so regular maintenance is key to keeping your home mold-free and your air quality safe for you and your family.
Protect your home and health with a thorough mold inspection from GreenWorks Inspections. Our expert team specializes in detecting hidden mold, assessing moisture issues, and providing you with a clear plan to eliminate mold for good. Don’t let mold spores compromise your air quality or well-being—schedule your professional mold inspection today. Call us now or visit our website to book an appointment and ensure a safer, mold-free environment for your family!
