Tips to Prevent Mold Growth in Your Commercial Business

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Why you should take steps to keep mold from growing in your business.  Some mold, over time, may cause structural damage to wood along with damage to furnishings and finishes. Use the following tips to help prevent mold growth in your business.

#1: Repair Leaks

Leaks from plumbing, windows, roofs, Leaks can lead to significant water damage in your business as well as an increased risk of mold growth. If you are not regularly inspecting your property, it’s easy for these leaks to go unchecked until they create a larger, more costly problem. Watch for signs of a leak such as lower water pressure; wet spots on the floors, ceilings, or walls; and condensation around windowsills and in attic spaces. These leaks can also occur from plumbing, windows, and roofs.

#2: Keep It Clean

Clutter creates lots of hiding spots for crumbs and dust, which are both great food sources for mold. Make sure to clear the clutter and wipe down hard surfaces regularly. Be sure to promptly clean all spills as well. Clean and sanitize break rooms and bathrooms frequently. Both rooms provide ample opportunity for mold growth. These rooms should be cleaned at least weekly depending on how regularly people use each room.

#3: Turn on the AC/Dehumidifier

Many people think turning off the AC when no one is there is the best thing to do but turning the AC off can cause mold to grow. Running your AC or a dehumidifier cuts down the humidity in the building.  Leaks are not the only way for moisture to accumulate in your business. High humidity levels can lead to moisture and mold as well. On hot days, fans can cool you off, but they don’t do much for humidity levels. Run your AC or a dehumidifier to cut down the humidity in the building.

#4: Take Care of Your HVAC System

Your HVAC system can quickly distribute mold spores throughout your building if there is a problem. Make sure your HVAC system receives regular inspections. Sometimes moisture condenses inside air ducts or leaks drip onto ducts from ceiling tiles, which can lead to mold growth inside the ducts. Make sure to keep the HVAC drip pans clean and unobstructed. Additionally, replace your filters as needed.

#5: Slope the Ground Away from the Foundation

If the ground around your building slopes toward the foundation, water can accumulate and weaken your building’s structure. Additionally, it provides an ideal environment for mold to grow. The ground should slope away from the building. You should also make sure your building follows the local building codes for drainage. Mold is persistent. Even if you follow all the right steps it’s still possible for mold to grow and spread in your building. Fortunately, at SERVPRO of Conway & Faulkner Counties, we have the right experience in mold remediation to make your place of business “Like it never even happened.” Unfortunately, mold does not stay put, it grows quickly. You will want to give us a call as soon as you notice it, so we can start the remediation process. Our technicians have the training, equipment, and knowledge necessary to help locate and remediate mold efficiently. If you find mold in your place of business, call us SERVPRO of Conway & Faulkner Counties at 501-328-3301.