Florida Living
Mold and Mildew Prevention
Living in Florida requires proactive management of high humidity to prevent mold and mildew, which can grow within 24-48 hours. Key strategies include keeping indoor humidity below 60% (Between 30% and 50% is ideal), setting air conditioning between 72–74F.
Humidity meters are available at hardware stores. Mold can be visible or invisible, and can grow unseen. Hidden mold can be detected by smell. If you do not see mold growth, but notice a musty odor, mold may be growing behind water-damaged materials, such as walls, carpeting or wallpaper. Mold can be dangerous to your health. If you notice a musty smell in your house, contact a qualified inspector to determine the source.
Maintenance
It’s important to pressure wash your home’s exterior to minimize mold and mildew. Examine the frame of your pool cage. If there is a dark discoloration, especially on the north side of each rafter, you have mold. Pressure washing can remove it. Pressure washing the pool deck can remove the fungus from that area. You will find the most accumulation around the entire inside perimeter along your house and pool cage, the stress relief cracks on your decking, and under the caps (lift up) that cover the holes where your handrail and swim ladder are attached to your concrete deck. The concrete pad under your pool equipment is also a prime spot for mold growth. Fix leaks immediately and clean gutters to prevent water damage. Use a mold/mildew inhibitor spray on outdoor furniture. Check the tracks of your sliding glass doors and windows INSIDE your home. The black streaks you see there is probably mold. Clean with water and a weak bleach solution. DRY when finished.
Products
Products like Damp Rid Moisture Absorber prevent mildew, mold, and other musty odors. It’s ideal for use in closets, basements, cabinets, bathrooms, linen closets, recreational vehicles and more. Damp Rid can help remove excess moisture from the air.
Humidity Control
Use a dehumidifier and keep air conditioning units on "Auto" to manage moisture.
Airflow
Do not block vents and keep furniture away from walls to promote circulation.
Storage
Avoid storing items directly on concrete floors and keep closets slightly open to allow air to circulate.
Bathroom Care
Use an exhaust fan when showering and keep doors open afterwards.
Closet
Remove plastic bags from clothing – they hold moisture inside. If you prefer to cover an item, use fabric, not plastic.
Pest Control Tips for Florida Living:
- Professional/DIY: Regular, preventative pest control treatments (barrier spraying) around the exterior foundation as well as inside the home are highly recommended.
- Exterior Defense: Trim trees and shrubs so branches do not touch the roof or walls.
- Seal the Home: Use caulk to seal gaps around doors, windows, and utility pipes. Ensure garage doors seal tightly. Consider mesh barrier in shower drains and closing sink drains at night.
- Moisture Control: Fix plumbing leaks under sinks and in bathrooms, as these bugs thrive on moisture.
- Indoor Cleanliness: Do not leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight. Store dry food and pet food in airtight containers.
- Educate yourself: Know the different kinds of pests in Florida. Learning about invasive pests, snakes, poisonous frogs, bobcats and other wild life is helpful.
Misc Tips
- HVAC Care: Change air filters regularly.
- Exterior Inspection: After heavy storms, check the roof for small damage.