Now that summer is underway, we’re entering one of the most humid times of the year. If you live near Lake Michigan or other lakes in the Chicagoland area, your home’s humidity levels are likely to be the highest they’ll be all year this June.
Unfortunately, strong humidity can promote the growth of mold – a sometimes-visible, sometimes-not allergen that can cause a lot of unfortunate health problems for you and your family. Mold thrives on moisture and humidity, and since colder air can hold less moisture and warmer air can, summer will leave your home especially vulnerable.
Mold and your health
Mold spores in the air are odorless and invisible. They are a natural part of indoor living, unless there are more mold spores than there should be. However, mold can be visible when it grows on surfaces or food or liquids. It may be in the form of small black spots, a white fuzzy layer on a surface, or orange, purple or green when growing on walls, furniture or other surfaces.
When exposed to excess amounts of mold, you and your family can suffer a variety of allergic reactions or other health problems. Common allergic reactions to mold include issues with breathing, red and itchy eyes, runny noses and skin rashes. Those with asthma or other existing allergic reactions may be especially vulnerable to mold.
Preventing mold growth
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the key to preventing excess mold from growing is addressing moisture in your home.
- Make sure you’re cleaning up any standing water or moisture throughout your home whenever it’s present. In the bathroom and kitchen, this means damping up standing water from inside and around sinks when using the facets.
- Another way to control moisture in the home is to use your air conditioning appropriately. First, make sure there isn’t mold growing on or inside your air condition vents. Then, run your air conditioner during the summer months at a moderate temperature, making sure to keep your windows closed and sealed.
- Use the exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen when showering or cooking.
You may also want to purchase and monitor a humidity detector. If your indoor humidity is regularly above 60 percent despite taking efforts to control moisture, you should seek professional interior cleaning help.
Get help getting rid of mold
Pumping and cycling in fresh, clean air is the best way to ensure your home is fresh and allergen-free. But to do that, you need windows and screens that are clean and free of allergens themselves. They also need to be able to fully close and seal when you need to run your air conditioner to dehumidify the air.
Are you ready to make sure your windows and screens are clean and functioning properly? Give us a call at 847-256-5140, visit us at TownandCountryWindowCleaning.com or use our scheduling page to set up an appointment with us today.