9 Ways to Prevent Mould in the Garage

Mould is a type of fungus that often grows in humidity-rich environments that have little ventilation and sunlight. Another factor for mould growth is mould “food”, such as wood or drywall. So, if there are organic materials and moisture present, mould doesn’t take long to appear. Furthermore, mould can grow in any area of a home, including the garage, unless proper steps are taken to prevent it. Below are important tips on how to prevent mould in the garage.

How to prevent mould in the garage

1. Checking the garage for leaks

Homeowners should inspect the areas in the garage, such as the roof, floor, gutters, and pipes, to ensure that they are in good condition. Any cracks and damage should be immediately fixed.

2. Sealing and insulating the garage door

To weather-proof a garage, it’s important to properly seal and insulate its door. Torn, ragged or crumbling weather stripping should be replaced at once. In addition, the bottom seal should be checked for elasticity, shrinkage, and wear. Regarding insulation, installing a pre-insulated garage door panel, which has a high R-value, is recommended. This feature measures how well an object resists the flow of heat.

3. Decreasing the humidity

Since garages can attract a lot of moisture due to being exposed more to the elements, it may have a high humidity (over 50%) that allows mould to grow. To control humidity levels, proper ventilation can be provided using vents and fans and letting sunlight in for a couple of hours daily. Using a dehumidifier can also help lower the moisture level.

4. Installing waterproof walls

Those who are building a new garage or remodeling an old one should choose mould-resistant drywall, as well as waterproof paint on walls and concrete. Using pre-coated aluminum or vinyl siding also adds protection against water and mould.

5. Removing the standing water

Garages may suffer flooding from sources such as outside precipitation, snow-covered tires, and even from washing the car. Any standing water should be removed with a squeegee or mop. After that, the area must be dried quickly to prevent mould growth.

6. Having proper drainage

A garage floor drainage system is essential to avoiding water damage and flooding in the garage. Thus, property owners should ensure that their garage has drainage in addition to a proper floor slope that diverts water away from the garage.

7. Extending the gutter downspouts

Gutters and downspouts are essential to defending the home and garage against precipitation. To prevent moisture buildup around the garage, downspouts should extend at least three metres away from the garage foundation. Also, the gutters must be kept clean and well-maintained throughout the year.

8. Using waterproof containers

Cardboard, paper, drywall, and other porous materials attract water very easily. Thus, to help prevent mould in the garage, it’s best to use sturdy, plastic totes instead of cardboard storage boxes. Plastic protects contents better and mould cannot grow on it.

9. Reducing plant growth around the garage

Although shrubs or flowers around the garage may look nice, they collect moisture which could leak in the garage. So, plants should be kept away from the garage walls and windows.

For expert mould removal, call the PuroClean emergency remediation pros!

Following these tips on how to prevent mould in the garage can help property owners enjoy a healthier garage and home. But if mould founds its way in the garage, it’s time to call in the professionals. PuroClean stands ready to provide help with mould removal, whether it’s in the garage or other areas of a property.