Here’s How You Can Protect Your LA Property From Mold
Millions of Americans live in hazardous living spaces as more than half of all US homes have mold issues. Moreover, due to its year-round warm weather and proximity to the ocean, California has been ranked as one of the top 3 worst states for people with mold allergies, and Los Angeles is among the top 20 worst cities for those with allergic reactions to mold. Mold infestation not only affects a home’s aesthetic value, but it can also cause numerous health problems such as allergic rhinitis, and worsen existing health conditions such as asthma. To protect your house and your family’s health, it’s essential to take active steps to prevent and stop mold growth in your home. Here’s how you can protect your LA property from mold.
Identify the cause of mold growth
If you notice black spots in certain areas of your home, it’s important to identify the cause of mold growth so you can get rid of it and stop it from spreading to other rooms. For instance, if there are black spots on the ceiling, there’s a possibility that your roof has a leak. Mold in the basement and bathroom means there’s poor ventilation in these areas, while spotty mold growth on the AC or window sills may be caused by condensation. Some of these mold problems can be easily corrected, but if mold has spread to other parts of the home, it may be best to call in a professional to deal with the infestation and prevent it from coming back.
Use non-toxic cleansers to get rid of mold
Using harsh chemicals to get rid of mold may help you get the job done, but it can have a negative impact on your home’s air quality. Instead of using industrial-strength cleansers, you can remove mold by using natural ingredients. Pour white vinegar into a spray bottle, spray onto affected areas, then wait at least an hour before wiping it off with a wet cloth. You can also mix two parts of baking soda with one part of vinegar and one part of water until it becomes a thick paste, then apply the paste to affected areas. Let the paste dry, then scrub it off with a soft scrubbing brush.
Improve your home’s ventilation
One of the most common causes of mold growth in LA homes is lack of proper ventilation. To increase airflow in your home, open the windows and use a fan to keep the air circulating in your property. You may also install exhaust fans in the bathroom or kitchen to prevent stale air from getting trapped in these areas. Having a few exhaust fans in your property can also help to keep humidity levels low, thus preventing mold growth. To further reduce humidity in your home, consider using a humidifier to pull moisture from the air. Place it in the kitchen and near wet areas to get the most use out of the device. Finally, to further improve your home’s air quality, bring in some indoor plants such as a snake plant, a Peace Lily plant, or a rubber plant. These plants can help to clean and purify the air and get rid of indoor air toxins.
Getting rid of and preventing mold growth in your home can keep your property in good condition and your family protected from mold-related health conditions. Try these tips to protect your LA property from mold growth, and enjoy having a clean and healthy living space.
