Sick House

Sick House

TOM: If mold moves in, you might have to move out. But with a few simple steps, you can make mold less welcome and keep you and your family safe. Hi, I’m Tom Kraeutler.

LESLIE: And I’m Leslie Segrete with today’s Money Pit Home Improvement Minute.

TOM: All mold needs to grow is moisture, air and food like dust. Keep it at bay by minding moisture. That means basement humidity below 50% and improving outdoor grading and drainage.

LESLIE: It also means effective ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms with properly sized fans that send moisture outside instead of into attics.

TOM: Keep storage above concrete floors and away from foundations. Especially when items are packed in cardboard boxes. And for mold free storage, use only metal or plastic shelving.

LESLIE: And if you wind up with a major leak or flood in your home, quick action can stop mold before it starts. Remove wet upholstery, dry carpets and padding, and wash and disinfect all surfaces. I’m Leslie Segrete.