Protecting Unoccupied New Hampshire Homes from Mold Growth

Protecting Unoccupied New Hampshire Homes from Mold Growth

New Hampshire’s hot, humid summers and cold winters present unique challenges for homeowners, especially when a home is left vacant for extended periods. One of the most significant risks during these times is mold growth, which thrives in damp, humid conditions. When a home is unoccupied, and the power is turned off, controlling the indoor climate becomes more challenging, increasing the likelihood of mold taking hold. However, with careful preparation and a few strategic steps, you can help prevent mold from developing, even in these challenging conditions.

Understanding the Mold Risk in Vacant Homes

Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in moist, warm environments. In New Hampshire, the combination of humid summers and the potential for winter frozen pipes creates an ideal setting for mold if not properly managed. When a home is vacant, routine activities like running the air conditioner or maintaining ventilation cease, allowing moisture levels to rise and creating a breeding ground for mold.

Tips for Preventing Mold Growth in Vacant Homes

1. Thoroughly Dry the Home Before Leaving

• Ensure all leaks are repaired, and surfaces, particularly in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, are thoroughly dried. Use fans and dehumidifiers before turning off the power to reduce any excess moisture.

2. Close Windows and Doors Tightly

• Make sure all windows and doors are securely closed to prevent humid outdoor air from entering the home. Apply weather stripping to windows and doors to minimize air leaks.

3. Cover Drains and Toilets

• Cover sinks, bathtubs, and shower drains to prevent moisture from rising into the home. Close toilet lids and consider wrapping them with plastic wrap to keep out humid air.

4. Use Moisture Absorbers

• Place moisture-absorbing products like silica gel or activated charcoal in key areas such as bathrooms, basements, and closets. Replace these products periodically to ensure they remain effective.

5. Store Items Off the Floor

• Store belongings off the floor, especially in basements or other moisture-prone areas, to prevent them from getting damp and promoting mold growth.

6. Ventilate Before Powering Down

• Open windows briefly before turning off the power to ventilate the home and reduce indoor humidity levels. Once ventilated, close windows tightly.

7. Install Passive Ventilation

• Consider installing passive vents, like trickle vents, to allow some air circulation without requiring electricity, helping to prevent moisture buildup.

8. Periodically Check the Property

• If possible, arrange for someone to check on the home periodically to ensure no issues with moisture or mold are developing.

9. Winterize the Home

• If the home will be vacant during the winter, drain water from pipes and appliances to prevent any leaks or moisture issues, especially if freezing temperatures are expected.

Why These Steps Matter

By taking these proactive measures, homeowners in New Hampshire can maintain a safer indoor environment, even during long periods of vacancy. Whether you’re leaving your home for a summer vacation or closing it up for the winter, controlling moisture and humidity levels is key to preventing mold growth. This not only protects your property but also ensures a healthy living environment when you return.

Reasons to Choose PuroClean Strafford County for Mold Remediation

1. Expertise You Can Trust
   Since 2017, we’ve been providing top-notch mold remediation services to our local community. Our team has years of experience, specialized training (You can trust our mold assessors are certified from the IICRC), and the latest equipment to handle any mold situation, no matter how big or small.
2. 5-Star Google Rating with 71 Glowing Reviews
   Our customers love us! With a 5-star rating and 71 reviews on Google, you can trust that you’re choosing a company that puts quality, customer service, and satisfaction first. Check out what our customers say here.
3. Quick and Thorough Inspections
   We offer comprehensive mold inspections that pinpoint the source of mold growth, ensuring a complete and thorough remediation. We don’t just treat the symptoms; we address the cause to help prevent future mold problems. At PuroClean, we value our time and yours, that is why we charge $50 for our inspections, we also apply the $50 credit back into your final bill if you choose to move forward with the work proposed. The inspection is an important step in creating individualized quotes are based on the square footage of a space and additional factors that may impact cost like the severity of the growth as this impacts how much product we need to use.
4. Local, Community-Focused Service
   As a locally owned and operated business, we understand the unique challenges of mold in the New Hampshire seacoast area. We’re dedicated to helping our neighbors keep their homes safe and healthy, and we’re constantly expanding to serve even more of our community. Each year we provide free of charge services to non-profits and children’s homes in the local communities here in New Hampshire.
5. Certified Technicians and Advanced Technology
   Our technicians are certified, highly trained, and use advanced technology to remove mold effectively and safely. We follow industry standards and best practices to ensure your home is free from mold and safe for your family.

For professional fire, water, and mold restoration services, contact PuroClean at (603) 664-3727. We serve New Hampshire and Southern Maine, providing high-quality remediation services. As an IICRC-certified company, we continuously invest in our team’s development to better serve you during emergencies.

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