A Bathroom Threat

Your bathrooms may be at risk. Some bathrooms are extending open invitations to thousands of tiny visitors that have the potential to make you extremely sick—and even take over your home—if left to their own devices. The menace is mold.How Does Mold Grow?

Mold grows from a spore and these microscopic spores are virtually everywhere. All homes have mold spores in them. Water, air, and insects spread them, but usually this small amount isn’t a problem. The problem begins when the mold starts to grow and thrive. For mold to proliferate, its two primary needs are food and moisture.

It’s not hard for mold to find food. Almost anything—including human oil or even soap scum—can become a tasty meal, so it’s impossible to eliminate the spore’s food supply. However, mold also needs moisture to grow, and we do have much more control over the moisture in our homes.

Eliminating Moisture

The United States Environmental Protection Agency is a helpful resource that lists several ways to discourage mold growth in your home. Below are some ways to help you control the moisture in your bathroom:

• Have a bathroom remodeler replace any areas affected by water damage immediately
• Fix any plumbing problems immediately to prevent leaks or standing water
• Buy a dehumidifier to place in the bathroom
• Get a fan that whisks away steam and condensation when you take showers or baths
• If you have an HVAC system, make sure it’s functioning correctly

If you have mold, you should be able to tell. You will either be able to see it as black spots or as fuzzy growth, which gets bigger as it grows, or you will be able to smell it. Mold has a telltale musty smell that is extremely potent.

Mold isn’t a problem that can be ignored or put off for later. It can make people very sick—especially those that already struggle with asthma, allergies, or weak immune systems. It also can grow and spread rapidly. If you have a mold problem that you can’t control yourself, be sure to report it and get help. Mold Prevention

The professionals at Indy Renovation specialize in bathroom remodeling and plumbing. We can help you be proactive against mold by installing a ventilation fan or checking your plumbing for potential leaks. Indy Renovation is here to help your home reach its full potential.  We’ve been serving Carmel, Fishers, and Indianapolis for over fifty years. Contact us today at 317-375-4464 to get a free quote.