4 Common Areas of the Home Where Mold and Moisture Occur

Bathrooms

            Ensuring proper caulking around showers and tubs is one of the easiest and simplest ways to prevent water from leaking around surrounding areas. Any areas of cracked or damaged caulking should be removed and new caulking applied. The P-trap under your sink should be checked often, this is common area for a slow leak that can easily go unnoticed, giving mold more time to grow.

Windows

Windows should be sealed properly with caulking. Check caulking around the windows for cracks and wear and tear from climate changes. Remove the old caulking and apply new caulking to prevent water from entering the home.

Gutters

Gutters that are not intact and leaking can impact various aspects of the home, including the roof, foundation, walls and the basement. Ensure that the gutters are intact, without rust and deterioration, especially at the joints and end caps where leaking will be more prevalent. Also ensure the gutters are still affixed to the side of that house, as snow, ice, and water can cause them to pull away from the home. Clean the leaves and debris out of the gutters and downspouts, ensuring proper water flow away from the house. Downspouts should be free flowing and extend 4-6 feet away from the house to help deter water from collecting at the base of the home.

Exterior

Homes with wood siding can peel and blister from weather changes, especially the expansion and contraction throughout our winter temperature changes. Inadequate exterior paint can allow moisture to penetrate the homes and eventually lead to mold and moisture related issues on the inside of the home.