We normally don’t think much about the garage when the subject of mold problems developing is mentioned, but actually mold can plague your garage just as it can appear in any other areas of your home. The good news is, if you indeed think there’s garage mold, it’s generally less difficult to remove it from your garage than from other parts of your house. The worst difficulty you’ll face regarding mold removal ~ besides using the correct disposal methods and taking the proper safety precautions ~ is making sure you get all of it out. When it comes to your whole household, this can sometimes involve expensive excavating of the surrounding walls and perimeter. On the other hand, finding and removing mold from your garage walls is much easier than uncovering and eliminating mold from all of the interior walls of your entire home.
The strategies necessary for thwarting garage mold are the same as for stopping any other kind of mold. Mold grows in a dark, moist, unventilated environment. Accordingly, you can prevent mold by 1) keeping your garage as dry as possible, 2) not allowing the garage to be completely dark, and 3) making sure it’s well-ventilated continually.
If You’re Starting from Scratch
If you’re building a new garage, then make it from materials inhospitable to mold. First, construct your garage using metal, not wooden studs. Metal studs will require additional skills and tools, but a skillful and experienced contractor won’t have any trouble constructing a premium-quality garage.
When it comes to siding, vinyl or pre-coated aluminum are optimum for your garage walls. If you choose materials other than wood, you’ll forestall the possibility of mold spores, and also keep away wood-eating pests.
Stop the Mold in Your Garage Right Now
If your garage isn’t made out of metal or some other mold-hindering materials, then you need to be more meticulous to keep mold from ever getting into the garage. First, reduce the air’s moisture content in the garage as much as possible. Use an air dehumidifier. The easiest way is to make it a daily goal to keep the garage well-ventilated: Leave the garage door open whenever you’re there, which will regularly air it out.
You must keep all moisture out, so mold won’t have a chance to form in the first place. Water can enter your garage if there are any leaks. Thus, always keep the roof of your garage in good condition. Allowing fresh air in, and maintaining the garage overall, will stop garage mold from developing. Sunlight will also help keep any mold away.
Garage Mold Removal
Garage mold may cause respiratory problems for people who are sensitive to it. If that’s the case, then eradicate it right away. Removing mold from your garage isn’t easy. During the process, mold spores can get stirred up, which can cause major irritation. Avoid any possible complications: Hire a licensed professional to do a thorough job.
Maintaining Your Garage Door
A garage door actually plays a larger role in your home’s value and curb appeal than you think. If you keep your garage door in tiptop shape, you’ll protect your garage for many years to come. An insulated garage door makes the most sense for preventing mold.
How long will your garage door last? If the construction materials are of outstanding quality, your garage door will be tougher than average. Garage doors these days are superior to those of generations ago, because they’re manufactured according to stricter safety standards. For instance, a prime-quality garage door provides an effective barrier for optimal heat-transfer reduction. Hardware and door sections of excellent-quality garage doors often come with better warranties.
Keep it in working order.
1. Operate the garage door one full cycle (open and closed), making sure it moves smoothly.
2. Check the automatic reversing garage door opener feature: When the door is on its way down, grab it, giving it a little resistance, to see if it will reverse. If it doesn't, the opener's sensitivity needs adjusting.
3. If your garage door doesn’t reverse, or if you notice any other issues, hire a garage door expert.
Keep it clean. Your garage door will last longer if you wash it periodically. On both sides, use a sponge and clean water with mild dish soap. Rinse well. Don’t include the garage door opener sensor eyes: Wash with a clean, dry cloth. Keep the area around the sensors free of cobwebs.
Keep it lubricated. Without lubrication, your garage door springs will eventually rust, and the coils will bind. Always keep your garage door rollers, hinges, and springs lubricated. Lubricate the springs once a year, before winter arrives. Don’t use anything too heavy, because it will attract grime and dirt. Use a top-name brand; a light coating is all that’s needed. Inspect the garage door opener's main gear, too: Lubricate it with white lithium grease.
Keep it balanced. Examine your garage door’s balance twice a year:
1. Disconnect the garage door from the opener: Pull the rope down that hangs from the opener, which disconnects the door, so you can lift it by hand.
2. The garage door ought to balance about 3 or 4 feet from the floor. If there's any resistance, if it’s too heavy, or if the door won’t stay up, the spring needs professional adjustment.
3. Read the owner's manual for instructions for how to reattach the garage door to the garage door opener.
Follow a regular maintenance schedule. Once each month, investigate the components of your garage door system. Replace worn parts, and tighten loose bolts. See if you hear any strange noises when the garage door opens or closes. If you discover any issues with wires, pulleys, springs, or cables, then it’s time to call a garage door professional. It’s best to schedule an annual inspection with a reputable garage door repair service.
DON’T EVER adjust the spring tension on your garage door yourself! Garage door springs are under pressure, so if not correctly serviced, they can cause injury, and even be deadly. The cables, bottom brackets (to which the cables are attached), and drums all pack a punch. If any components require adjusting, repairing, or replacing, find a trusty garage door technician.
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