Preventing Mold in Your Home's Closet

2/10/2025 (Permalink)

A hand wiping down an overgrown mold growth in a closet.

Mold can grow anywhere in homes, including closets. Here are some tips to keep your closets dry and mold-free! 

• Make sure that clothes are completely dry before storing them in closets. The moisture in clothing can accelerate mold growth. 
• Store only clean clothing and items in closets as dirt and other organic substances are potential food sources for mold. 
• Don’t pack clothes or other items too tightly in closets. Allow air to circulate between them to reduce moisture. 
• Don’t store items on the closet floor to prevent trapping moisture underneath them. 
• Leave closets open when possible. Replace solid closet doors curtains for better airflow. 
• Avoid opening closets if they are in rooms with high humidity, particularly when producing moisture (e.g., showering or cooking). 
• If you have a humidity problem in your home, use the air conditioning unit or a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air. 
• If clothes in a closet smell musty, take them out and fix the moisture problem. 

Controlling the Invisible Intruder: Unleashing effective humidity control measures for a healthier home environment

1/17/2024 (Permalink)

Moving air dryers into the job site.

In the battle against water damage and mold growth, controlling the invisible intruder of excess humidity becomes paramount. Implementing efficient humidity management techniques that limit the dangers associated with high humidity is critical to creating a healthy home environment in Lake Travis/Lakeway.

Humidity control begins with proper ventilation. Adequate airflow helps to circulate fresh air throughout your home, reducing moisture buildup and promoting a healthier indoor environment. Opening windows, utilizing exhaust fans, and installing ventilation systems in areas prone to high humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens, are effective strategies.

Another powerful tool in humidity control is maintaining optimal temperature settings. A consistent temperature not only enhances comfort but also helps regulate humidity levels. 

Setting your thermostat to a moderate and consistent temperature can prevent condensation and excessive moisture accumulation within your home. It is essential to identify and address potential moisture sources to combat humidity. Leaky pipes, faulty plumbing fixtures, or roof leaks can introduce unwanted moisture into your home. Promptly fixing these issues prevents excess humidity and mitigates the risk of water damage and mold growth.

Utilizing dehumidifiers can be a game-changer in areas where humidity control is challenging. These devices extract excess moisture from the air, helping to maintain ideal humidity levels. Dehumidifiers are particularly useful in basements, attics, and other areas prone to dampness.

At SERVPRO of Lake Travis/Lakeway, we understand the importance of controlling the invisible intruder of excess humidity. Our experts assess your home's specific humidity concerns and provide tailored solutions to manage moisture levels effectively. From implementing ventilation systems to recommending dehumidifiers, we equip you with the tools and knowledge necessary for a healthier home environment.

Weakening foundations: Unveiling the hidden structural damages beneath the surface of your Lake Travis/Lakeway home or business.

1/5/2024 (Permalink)

A damaged roof with the SERVPRO logo and text that reads "Leaks Lead to Mold".

While storms bring immediate visible damage to Lake Travis/Lakeway homes, one of the most concerning aspects is the hidden structural damage that can occur beneath the surface. Stormwater infiltration can weaken the foundation upon which your home stands, posing a significant risk to its stability and long-term integrity.

When excess water saturates the ground surrounding your home, it can seep into the foundation, causing soil erosion and compromising its structural support. Over time, this can lead to foundation settling, shifting, or even cracking, endangering the overall stability of the entire structure.

Furthermore, water-damaged foundations create an environment ripe for further deterioration. Moisture trapped within the foundation can contribute to the growth of mold and rot, further compromising its strength. The weakened foundation can affect the alignment of walls, floors, and even the roof, leading to a range of structural issues that require immediate attention.

At SERVPRO of Lake Travis/Lakeway, we recognize the gravity of weakening foundations caused by water damage. Our skilled team conducts thorough inspections to assess the structural integrity of your home. We employ proven techniques to address foundation issues, such as drainage solutions, waterproofing strategies, and reinforcement methods. By addressing the hidden damage beneath the surface, we ensure that your home stands on a solid foundation, ready to weather future storms with resilience.