• Dry the surface completely.
• Fix plumbing or roof leaks and check basement for wet walls or floor.
• Wrap cold water pipes with insulation.
• Grade soil near your foundation to slope away from your home.
• Clean gutters regularly and keep them in good repair.

Keep Humidity Below 60%.
This can be measured with a hygrometer purchased at a hardware store ($10-$15). Droplets of water (condensation) on windows, walls or pipes are a sign of humidity. To lower humidity:

• Ventilate daily.
• Dry any wet surfaces.
• Use exhaust fans or open windows in bathrooms when bathing or showering.
• Use exhaust fans or open windows in kitchen when cooking, washing dishes (even in the dishwasher) etc.
• Open a window when using your clothes washer.
• Vent appliances such clothes dryer, stoves and heaters to the outside (combustion appliances produce water vapor).
• Keep all doors open to keep air circulating.

Use Air Conditioners And/Or De-Humidifiers to reduce humidity as needed.

• Drip pans must be cleaned and dried to prevent mold growth.
• Drain lines must be clear and flowing properly.
• Inspect air conditioners for mold and clean coils (you might want to call a professional).
• Clean the humidifier on your furnace daily.

Don’t Ignore Mold.
It causes damage as it grows! If the moldy area is less than 10 square feet you may be able to handle this yourself but be careful. Protect yourself by wearing gloves and goggles. You may also want to use a N-95 respirator available at hardware stores ($12 -$25).

• Scrub mold off a hard surface with borax, detergent or diluted chlorine bleach (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) and then dry.
• Discard water-damaged, porous materials, such as wallboard, ceiling tiles or carpet.
• Do not paint or caulk over moldy surfaces.
• Look for hidden sources of mold behind dry wall, tiles, carpets, wallpaper, and roof materials: use care when discarding.

Do Not Store firewood, piles of leaves or compost near your home. Mold spores can be disturbed and tracked into your home or can enter your home through windows.