Install an exhaust fan
To maintain low levels of humidity, installing an exhaust fan is the most important thing you can do in the bathroom. If you do not already have a fan in your bathroom you can purchase one from a local home improvement store and install it yourself, easily. By circulating the air, the exhaust fan ventilates the bathroom and prevents damp air overloads. You should always use it during and following baths or showers to prevent moisture build-up. Every few weeks you should inspect the fan for accumulation of mold or excess moisture on the fan or in the duct. If you notice any problems, it is important to clean them up immediately.
The toilet
The most vulnerable water junction in your entire house is probably your toilet. Toilet leaks often involve clean water and sewage water that can cause both structural damage and hazardous health risks. Examining the toilet water lines at least once a month will help catch a problem as soon as it occurs. You should also search for leaks around the toilet seat, in the water hose, and under the tank. If you notice any signs of moisture on the floor around the toilet, it is important to inspect the toilet rim and tank seals to see if they need to be replaced. Always switch out broken parts as soon as possible, if you wait the problem could escalate quickly into a heath problem. Water damage may have already occurred if the floor feels soft.
The shower
A bathroom shower is exposed to a substantial amount of water every day and may require further attention to ensure it is well maintained. You should check the tiles in your shower and replace any cracked or damaged tiles every few weeks. To prevent water from dripping behind the tiles, you should routinely check that there is no missing grout between tiles. If there is, it needs to be fixed as soon as possible. Finally, inspect the caulking at any joints around the bathtub and replace the loose and/or missing sections.
Sinks and cabinets
Your sinks and cabinets are often exposed to moisture and high humidity levels but are unfortunately usually overlooked. Inspect under the sink regularly for signs of mold or moisture, and also check the countertop above it. Repair any drip in the trap as it may lead to more serious drain problems. Look around the sink also, as slow draining pipes may indicate a blockage. If sink seals are cracked or loose, replace them immediately.
Monitor moisture levels
Carefully monitor moisture levels in the bathroom as well as in adjoining rooms. You should always be very attentive to excess moisture in your floors or walls, and stains or water marks as they may indicate plumbing problems that require attention. If you do suspect damage but cannot locate the problem then you should contact a water damage specialist as the problem may be with your plumbing.
Fix problems immediately
Do not ignore leaks or water damage problems in your bathroom. Unless they are fixed right away, these problems will lead to serious damage, expensive repair bills, and even potential health problems. Call a water damage expert as soon as possible, if you cannot fix a problem on your own.
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We are looking at a house with lots of trees that ...
By: bj | 23-07-2008
we are looking at a house with lots of trees that has been empty for over a year. When we looked at it in Feb there was no smell of mold but now in July it is very heavy. There is no sign of water problems but we have high humidity here. Since the house is most often without air condition could this be the problem. If so can it be easily cleared? Our daughter has asthma.
Drowning in my own yard
By: waterlogged | 10-07-2008
In Alabama, I'm experiencing water damage to the foundation of my home (cracked slab) due to neighbor's deliberate flooding of my yard for the last year. I read online that if you can prove it's due to deliberate or negligent water use of someone else's, your homeowners covers it. I also have a flood policy, but this is not considered a flood. Wish I could re-find where that statement about negligence was. Any help out there?
When u have this type of mold in a child with ...
By: kimkzn | 17-01-2008
when u have this type of mold in a child with cystic fibrosis can u get rid of it? is there any way to get itout of your clothing?
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