Attack of the Killer Mold, and How to Defeat It

June 29, 2012 - PRLog -- Long Islanders are used to our region’s occasional damp, humid weather. We put up with it because it’s part and parcel of our gorgeous summertime. This tolerant attitude doesn’t extend to humidity causing mold in the bathroom.  Fortunately, molds are usually not a problem indoors, unless mold spores land on a frequently damp surface – like in your bathroom – and begin growing. Even the best homemaker can have a mold problem with their bathroom, particularly when you have a lot of family members using the shower one after the other.

The kids aren’t the only things growing in your home.

What’s the problem? Mold looks bad. Inhaling or touching mold may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, including sneezing, red eyes, skin rash and even asthma attacks in some people. Some molds can actually produce potentially toxic substances: mycotoxins.
(Source: Centers for Disease Control & Prevention; www.cdc.gov)

Check the corners and ceiling of your shower area.  If mold has begun to grow, you need to remove it immediately. Use a sponge or cloth with ammonia or bleach solution to wipe. Bathtub sealer along the tub edge can be a problem area, and may have to be removed and replaced if it can’t be completely cleaned. Of course there are effective commercial products available, as well. Watch out for your eyes and skin; gloves are a good idea.

How can you prevent mold?

Ventilate.
Open the bathroom window when showering. Use air conditioners and dehumidifiers if bathroom space and setup permit. Run the bathroom fan. Leave it on for a few minutes after you’re done showering to clear out the humidity. Periodically check that your vent fan (and fan cover grate) is clear of dust.

Dry and Clean.
Wipe down damp bathroom surfaces, particularly shower walls, tiles, glass doors, vanity tops and mirrors after using your shower or bath. Every few weeks, wash down the walls with an anti-mildew solution or diluted bleach. You can spray with undiluted vinegar, letting it dry on its own, which prevents mold and deodorizes the bathroom. Of course, if you have young children, store these harsh chemicals away when finished. Never mix chemicals with one another.

Maintain Tiles and Grout.
Mold often grows on the tiles and grout around them. Removing mold from tiles is usually not a problem. Mold growing in grout can be more difficult. Use an old toothbrush or scrub brush on the grout. Applying sealer to the grout can help. Worst case scenario: the grout may need to be scraped out and replaced. Like the doctor says: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Down the Drain.
Pouring drain cleaner or a mold-killing solution could be all you need to prevent  mold in a drain.

Another tip: Store bathroom items up high, ideally on a dry shelf, and remove unneeded items and clutter from the bathroom.

Mold-resistant building products.

New construction and renovation provide an opportunity to incorporate mold-resistant materials as needed, stopping it “at the source.”  The pros at SHELLS ONLY Complete Home Improvements will help you stop mold before it even starts by recommending materials that are designed to combat mold growth. They can advise you on the products that work best, so you’re getting the maximum benefit.

Mold-Resistant Wood.
In addition to keeping mold at bay, this product also resists termites, and some brands are certified not to release any harmful emissions.

Mold-Resistant Drywall.
This type of drywall has fiberglass facing instead of the usual paper, reducing the “organic” component.

Mold-Resistant Drywall Tape.
One brand even has an anti-microbial coating.

Mold-Resistant Paint.
Many brands now contain a fungicide, or you can buy an additive that is sold separately. Please note that any mold must be removed before painting with ANY paint.

Mold-Resistant Caulk.
The caulk is treated with fungicide to it helps retard mold growth.


SHELLS ONLY Complete Home Improvements is a full service construction company: http://www.ShellsOnly.com