Usually, we aren’t thinking about our garage when the subject of mold developing is mentioned, but mold can indeed plague your garage, just as it can appear in any other parts of your home. Nevertheless, the good news is, if you think there might be garage mold present, it’s often less difficult to eliminate it from your garage than from other areas of your house. The worst problem you’ll face regarding mold removal ~ besides applying the proper disposal methods and taking the correct safety precautions ~ is being sure that you get it all. When it comes to your entire household, this can sometimes involve excavating of the surrounding walls as well as the perimeter, which can be quite expensive. On the other hand, locating and removing mold from your garage walls is a lot easier than uncovering and eradicating mold from all the inside walls of your whole home.
The strategies needed for thwarting garage mold are the same as for putting a stop to any other type of mold. Mold grows in a moist, dark, unventilated environment. Therefore, you will prevent mold by 1) keeping the garage as dry as you can, 2) not permitting the garage to be totally dark, and 3) making sure it’s continuously well-ventilated.
Are You Starting from Scratch?
If you’re building a brand-new garage, then build it from materials that are inhospitable to mold. First, construct it using metal, not wooden studs. Metal studs will necessitate additional skills and tools, but a talented and experienced contractor will not have any trouble constructing a maximum-quality garage.
When it comes to siding, pre-coated aluminum or vinyl are optimal for garage walls. If you choose materials besides wood, you’ll foil the possibility of mold spores, and also ward off wood-eating pests.
Stopping the Mold in Its Tracks, Right Now
If your garage isn’t made of metal or other mold-hindering materials, then be more meticulous to keep mold from getting into your garage. First off, reduce the air’s moisture content. Buy an air dehumidifier. Make it your daily goal to keep your garage well-ventilated: Leave the garage door open every time you’re around, to regularly air it out.
Keep all moisture out, so mold won’t ever have a chance to develop. Water can get in if there are any leaks. Accordingly, always keep the roof of your garage in tiptop shape. Allowing fresh air in, and maintaining the garage overall, will prevent garage mold from forming in the first place. Sunlight also helps keep mold away.
Removing the Mold from Your Garage
Garage mold can cause respiratory problems for some people, if they’re sensitive to it. If so, then wipe it out immediately. Eliminating mold from your garage isn’t an easy task. During the process, mold spores will get stirred up, which can be irritating to some folks. Avoid any possible complications: Hire a professional to do a thorough job.
Preventative Measures: Maintaining Your Garage Door
Your garage door plays a bigger part in your home’s curb appeal and value than you normally think. If you keep your garage door in good condition, you’ll protect your garage for years to come. To effectively prevent mold, an insulated garage door makes the most sense.
Do you want to make your garage door last a long time? If you choose construction materials of extraordinary quality, your garage door will be exceptionally resilient. Garage doors nowadays are better than those of generations ago, because they’re manufactured following stricter safety standards. For example, a premium-quality garage door provides a successful barrier that optimizes heat-transfer reduction. Hardware and door sections of outstanding-quality garage doors often come with superior warranties.
Keep it clean. To lengthen the life of your garage door, wash it at least once a year. On both sides, use a sponge with clean water and mild dish soap. Rinse it well. Don’t neglect the garage door opener sensor eyes: Cleanse with a clean, dry cloth. Keep the space around the sensors free of cobwebs.
Keep it in working order.
- Operate the garage door one full cycle (shut and open), making sure it moves smoothly.
- Examine the automatic reversing garage door opener feature: When the door is on its way down, grab it, giving it a bit of resistance, and see whether it will reverse. If it doesn’t, then the opener’s sensitivity requires adjusting.
- If your garage door won’t reverse, or if you observe any other problems, hire a garage door specialist.
Keep it balanced. Twice a year, inspect the garage door’s balance:
- Disconnect your garage door from the opener: Pull the rope down, which is hanging from the opener; this disconnects the door, so you can lift it manually.
- The garage door should balance about three or four feet from the ground. If you see any resistance, if it’s too heavy, or if the door still will not stay up, the spring needs adjusting.
- Read your owner’s manual’s instructions for how to reattach your garage door to the garage door opener.
Lubricate. Without lubrication, eventually your garage door springs will rust, and the coils will bind up. Always lubricate your garage door rollers, hinges, and springs. At least lubricate the springs once a year, before winter comes. Don’t use anything too heavy, because it attracts dirt and grime. Choose a top-name brand; a light coating is all you need. Take a close look at the garage door opener’s main gear, also: Lubricate it using white lithium grease.
Follow a routine maintenance schedule. Once a month, investigate your garage door system’s components. Tighten loose bolts. Replace worn parts. If you hear any odd noises when the garage door shuts or opens; if you discover any issues with cables, pulleys, wires, or springs; then it’s time to track down a garage door expert. It’s best to schedule an annual inspection with a trustworthy garage door repair company.
NEVER adjust the spring tension on your garage door yourself! Garage door springs are under great pressure, so if not serviced properly, they can cause injury or even death. The bottom brackets (to which the cables are attached), drums, and cables all pack a punch. If any components need adjustment, repair, or replacement, find a reputable garage door technician in Highlands Ranch. If you’re in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, contact a legitimate local service such as HR Garage Door Repair.
Aricle source here: DO YOU SUSPECT THERE MAY BE MOLD SPORES IN YOUR GARAGE? HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN DO!