One of the most common bathroom problems Minnesota homeowners face is the growth of mold. Fortunately, it’s also one of the easiest to prevent and get rid of, so long as it wasn’t allowed to get too bad.
How to Spot It
Because mold tends to grow where water collects, it can be tricky to find. Check in places like under the sink, around any exhaust fans, in crawl spaces and access doors to bath fixtures or showers. It can also grow in rooms close to the bathroom or in the basement under the bath if the moisture problem is bad enough.
Preventing
Avoiding mold growth is relatively simple. If you have a ventilation fan, use it whenever you shower and let it run for half an hour after you’ve finished. Should you not have one yet, invest in one. Humidity is another problem, so although Minnesota summer days may have high humidity, do your best to keep humidity levels under 50% in your home. Dehumidifiers and air conditioners are great for this purpose.
Avoid keeping toiletry bottles, toys or loofas in the shower when you’re not using them, and invest in a mildew-resistant shower curtain. Make cleaning it, and bathroom rugs, part of your regular housekeeping routine. It’s also wise to replace the shower curtain on a fairly regular basis.
Eliminating Mold
If you do find mold, get rid of it by cleaning the area thoroughly with cleaners which will kill it, like bleach, hydrogen peroxide or bleach, and keep the windows open to dry it out. Also, replace any infested caulking or sealant.
If the problem is covers over 10 square feet, or you find it in your walls or installation, the problem is too big for you to handle. That’s when it’s time to give your bathroom a remodel with the help of a professional.
Iron River Construction is a full-service home remodeling contractor serving the Twin Cities metro area and outlying communities. We do bathrooms, too!
