The Risks of Using Mold Blockers to Mask Mold Issues
Mold growth in homes, especially in crawl spaces and basements, can be a persistent and frustrating problem. It may be easy to seek a quick solution and use so-called “mold blockers” – seal blocker paint, spray, gel and other types of products – to conceal the issue. Unfortunately, this is a risky practice – one that we see far too often. While the immediate effects may appear promising, using mold blockers to simply cover up mold can have detrimental consequences for your home, you and your family.
Exacerbating the Problem
Mold blockers create a protective barrier over surfaces to prevent mold growth. However, they do not address the root cause of the problem, which can cause further issues.
Unless the source of moisture is identified and eliminated, the mold will likely return since it thrives in damp and humid conditions.
Mold spores can still be present in the air, posing health issues such as respiratory problems and allergies.
Concealing the visible signs of mold may delay necessary repairs, leading to more extensive damage and higher remediation costs in the future.
In some cases, using mold blockers as a temporary fix may not comply with local regulations and standards for mold remediation. Professional remediation services often follow specific guidelines to ensure the complete removal of mold, and relying solely on blockers may not meet these standards.
Finding True Solutions
If you do discover mold in your home or crawl space, your best and only recourse is to call a professional. Removing mold is not a DIY project but should be left to the pros who have the proper equipment and will follow local regulatory codes.
Do not confuse typical bathroom mildew with mold. Mildew typically appears in shades of white or gray and is generally considered less harmful to your health compared to certain types of mold. Mild cases of bathroom or kitchen mildew can usually be mitigated with over-the-counter products, especially those with bleach. However, if you are unsure, call a professional.
Avoiding Mythical Remedies
Mythical home remedies, such as bleach, ammonia, vinegar, lime, hydrogen peroxide, etc., are not good ideas. As these are all water-based products, ironically, they will actually enable and feed the mold to continue to grow.
Protecting Your Home
The best practices to help prevent mold in your home are:
Keeping humidity levels in your crawl space or basement as low as you can and no higher than 50% all day
Making sure the air in the crawl space flows freely
Fixing any leaks in your home's roof, walls, floors, or plumbing so mold does not have moisture to grow
While the temptation to use mold blockers as a quick fix is understandable, it is crucial to recognize that this approach does not provide a comprehensive solution to mold issues. Be sure to address the root cause of mold growth, seek professional remediation services, and take proactive measures to prevent future occurrences. By doing so, you can ensure the long-term health and integrity of your home. And if you are wondering how much crawl space mold is acceptable, the answer is zero! As always, contact us with any questions about maintaining your home, foundation and crawl space.