T E R D A M A G E A N D M O L D
I N Y O U R H O M E
Water damage and secondarily, mold can come from sources other than floods. Your home is full of
potential leak sources such as water pipes, water heaters, and washing machines as well as less obvious
hazards like inadequate ventilation and improperly aimed downspouts.
The good news is, you can stop most problems before they start with regular maintenance.
M O L D A N D H E A L T H R I S K S
In rare cases, mold can be toxic. But typically, mold is an allergen and an irritant. The dosage is what
makes it toxic (even table salt is toxic in high enough levels).
Currently, there arent widely recognized medical standards that define safe and unsafe levels of mold.
Nor is there evidence that mold is more toxic now than at any time in history. What is known is that
mold can damage your home and mold growth can be prevented. Its a maintenance issue stemming
from excess moisture
W H E R E M O L D C O M E S F R O M
Mold spores are microscopic living organisms that live virtually everywhere in our environment.
They depend on moisture to survive. Some mold is actually critical to the ecosystem, while other
mold is harmful to health and property.
We didnt hear much about mold problems 20 years ago. Back then, homes werent built as tight to
maintain energy efficiency, and unwanted moisture had more of a chance to escape through the attic
and walls.
P R E V E N T I N G W A T E R D A M A G E ,
C O N T R O L L I N G M O L D
Mold can be prevented or controlled if you stop water leaks immediately and eliminate dampness and
humidity within 48 hours. The Environmental Protection Agency names moisture control as the key to
mold control. Heres what you can do:
Look for leaks.The moment you notice a water problem (like a leaky water heater or a drip under
the sink), mop up the water and repair the leak immediately.
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G O P E M C O P E M C O
I n s u r a n c e
In bathrooms. Check around pipes occasionally for leaks and, if your toilet seems to be running more than
normal, investigate the problem and repair it before it causes damage. Most leaks are easily fixed, and you
can do many repairs yourself. Otherwise, call a plumber to help you spot the problem and correct it before it
worsens.
In kitchens. Dishwasher hoses and automatic ice-maker lines often develop leaks. Check your dishwasher
lines (they are usually connected to the plumbing under the kitchen sink) for signs of brittleness or leakage.
Placing a plastic tub under the kitchen sink will make it easier to spot leaks before damage occurs. If you
move your refrigerator to clean, be careful not to overextend or pinch the ice-maker line. If you see signs of
brittleness or moisture, call a qualified repair technician.
In the utility room. Older water heaters can leak and flood your home, causing major damage without
warning. If it happens while youre away, you face an even larger problem, particularly if your structure stays
wet for any length of time. Hardwood floors are especially vulnerable to water damage. Consider replacing
your water heater if its more than 10 years old.
Worn out washing machine hoses cause more than $100 million in damage each year in the United States.
When they burst, water gushes quickly into your home in surprising volumes. Hoses usually provide hints
theres a problem before its too late. Check them for cracks or leaks. Periodically check the floor under the
hoses for moisture after you do a load of laundry.
To be safe, install new washing machine hoses every five years. We suggest you purchase a quality high-
pressure hose. Theyre available at most home improvement stores for $5 to $10.
On the roof. After a windstorm, check your roof for damage. Missing tiles or shakes can let water in.
L E T Y O U R H O U S E B R E A T H E
To avoid trapping moisture in your home: Never block the foundation vents under your home. Dont allow attic insulation to plug eave and roof vents. Aim gutters and downspouts away from your home. Keep shower enclosures well-caulked and tile grout thoroughly sealed. Make sure range hoods, dryers, and bathroom exhaust fans vent outside (not in your attic or garage). Turn on your stoves exhaust fan when cooking or canning. Run the bathroom fan or crack a window
during showers to let steam escape.
11926.002 05/2005