The climate in Houston is extremely humid because of the city’s proximity not only to the Gulf of Mexico, but to several other bodies of water. This proximity results in high levels of water vapor in the air. Humidity does more than take away your chances of a good hair day – it can also cause mold growth. Mold can wreak havoc on home materials like wood and laminate, and it can also contribute to poor health. The stagnant higher temperatures also allow mold spores to quickly reproduce and thrive.

A humid climate is usually accompanied by a high level of precipitation– which is exactly what Houston faces on the regular. The widespread devastation of Hurricane Harvey in 2017 is all too fresh in our minds; the excessive precipitation from the storm flooded practically the entire city.

If you have a property in the Central Houston area, it is important that you are especially observant of the entrances to it. If water has found its way in, even if it’s an insignificant amount, it can result in mold growth. You should also pay close attention to condensation, as it’s the number one enemy in the defense of your home against mold; if you ever see it, take care of it right away.

While, as a homeowner, you will likely experience mold at some point, there are several steps you can take to insure that it’s not a part of your near future – especially when it starts to warm up again.

Here are some helpful tips:

Check your sources of ventilation in full bathrooms and kitchen. These are the two most likely places for mold to grow.

Have your air conditioning unit serviced. You will always need it to be in peak condition in humid climates! Make sure the filter is clean, everything is in working order, and that you will stay comfortable.

In your home, the humidity level should never be over 50-55 percent. If you have an issue maintaining this level, invest in a dehumidifier to keep mold spores and other forms of bacteria at bay.

Clean, disinfect, and dust things regularly to keep those mold spores moving! 80 percent of mold outbreaks grow initially on dust, so don’t give them the opportunity to find a moisture source and start growing.

At Restoration 1 of Central Houston, we have seen all types of mold in properties around the city. That is why we have become the most trusted name in mold inspection and removal in our area. If you think you may have a mold outbreak, don’t wait to get an inspection. Prolonged exposure to mold, especially black mold, can have adverse effects to you and your family’s health over time.