Mold Prevention - An Ounce is Worth a Pound of Cure

Mold Prevention – An Ounce is Worth a Pound of Cure

Nature can throw a lot at a home over time. So can homeowners! Building codes help ensure structures are built to withstand environmental elements. Occasionally, nature throws a flood, wind or once in a lifetime storm our way. Hopefully we stand strong through those challenges. When it comes to mold prevention, an ounce of it is worth a pound of cure.

Mold Prevention is the Key

A home builder and inspector, I am saddened by the condition some structures fall victim to. Homeowner procrastination is more often the culprit than nature! Too often homes and structures fall into disrepair because homeowners put off the obvious. Quick fixes turn into expensive, unnecessary repairs.

One threat we should address immediately is water. Unwanted water intrusion and moisture can threaten a homes structural integrity and habitability faster than anything. Wood destroying insects, wood rot, foundation issues and mold almost always share a common companion. You can always find water in the wrong place.

What We Cannot See Can Be Most Compelling

We cannot see behind the walls or inspect our homes from top to bottom daily. However, we should address the obvious issues we can see including:

Plumbing leaks,
Clogged gutters,
Missing downspouts
Grading issues

These are a few of the common “small” issues that often evolving into “major” ones. A water mark or stain on a ceiling, wall or floor should be investigated. Any underlying problem should be fixed immediately. An old roof that needs to be replaced, should be patched until finances are available. Doing nothing is never the answer. Water will continually destroy all it encounters costing far more in the long run.

Indoor mold growth is clear evidence of a moisture and water problem. Stopping the mold means identifying and preventing uncontrolled water intrusions as soon as possible. Otherwise, the mold will inevitably return. At a minimum: