Cincinnati Enquirer
Home & Garden
April 6, 2008
Eliminate mold and prevent new growth
By AMY HOWELL
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Now's the time to check for possible damage left by snow and heavy rainfall, and take steps to eliminate and prevent moisture and mold in your home. Here are a few tips to get started.
Inspect your home for spots where moisture could seep in. Look for damaged shingles, siding or window flashing, warped window panes or cracked foundations.
Make sure gutters are clear and that downspouts direct water away from the home.
Check that landscaping slopes away from your home.
Test drains in the basement, garage or driveway to make sure they're not clogged.
Look for mold or moisture in areas like basements, laundry rooms and attics. The EPA recommends using detergent and water to wash small areas of mold off hard surfaces. Absorbent materials - carpet, drywall, ceiling tiles - may have to be replaced.
Treat areas prone to moisture with a product such as Concrobium Mold Control ($9.49 for 32 ounces at most hardware and home-improvement stores) that eliminates and prevents mold growth.