No homeowner wants to deal with mold. This fungus is unsightly and can ruin your property. It can even pose a threat to your health. One of your first instincts might be to opening windows. In this post, we’ll go over whether or not this is an effective method.
When Opening Windows Does Not Help Against Mold
- The outside humidity is greater than 60%.– If you’re opening your windows and it’s very humid outside, it can create a condition where mold will continue to grow.
- During rains. Opening your windows during rain is another opportunity to increase your home’s moisture and humidity. And, as previously mentioned, it’s counterproductive as it will create the perfect environment for mold and mildew.
- You have visible mold growth present – If there is a visible growth especially in an area greater than 10 square feet, the best bet is to keep still air so that the potential of mold in the air isn’t floating throughout the air. Set up a still containment until a professional can see it in person and make a determination on the best next steps.
Why Opening Windows Is Effective Against Mold
It goes without saying that mold spores thrive in warm, damp environments. Therefore, if you want to get rid of them and prevent mold growth, you’ll have to reduce the amount of moisture inside your home.
Opening the windows if it’s less humid outside will aid in kicking out the excess humidity in your home. This method is especially effective in rooms that are prone to mold growth due to excess moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms. It’s commonly called, burping the building as an industry term, to open ups windows to let all humidity out quickly and 10 mins later close the windows.
Other Methods To Reduce Mold
Opening your windows isn’t always the best method. As we mentioned earlier, it won’t be effective if the humidity outside is greater than 60%. You also can’t open your windows if it’s raining, too cold, etc.
So, what if you can’t open your windows? Are there other effective methods for controlling humidity and mold in your home?
Luckily, the answer is yes. Here are some of the best methods:
- Get a good dehumidifier.
- Buy plants that wick moisture.
- Move moisture-releasing plants outside.
- Don’t air-dry clothes inside (use a dryer or air-dry your clothes outside).
- Turn on fans when you cook and shower.
- Purchase charcoal bags, which absorb moisture (you can also make moisture-absorbing bags out of silica gel packs or rock salt).
- Fix any leaks your home might have.
- Ensure that your home’s ventilation system is working properly.