Prevention starts with moisture
Mold needs moisture, so prevention is about keeping materials dry. EPA guidance suggests keeping indoor relative humidity below 60 percent, ideally between 30 and 50 percent, and drying wet materials within 24 to 48 hours.
What we do as part of a job
- Trace the likely moisture source and tell you what needs repair
- Dry the structure and check moisture readings before closing up
- Point out ventilation, drainage, grading and roofing problems we see
- Give advice on humidity targets and monitoring
- Document the work so you can show what was done
A prevention checklist for Littleton homes
- Clean gutters and extend downspouts away from the foundation
- Check window wells, grading and basement walls each spring
- Run bathroom and kitchen fans, ducted outdoors, during and after use
- Keep humidity between 30 and 50 percent and use a hygrometer
- Repair leaks and replace aging hoses and water heaters promptly
- Have the roof checked after hail and before winter
What prevention cannot guarantee
We do mold removal only, so plumbing, roof and grading repairs go to the right trade, and no one can control future water events. Prevention reduces risk. If you want testing or assessment, an independent assessor provides that.
About mold prevention
The EPA states that the key to mold control is moisture control. Prevention is about keeping materials dry, keeping humidity in range and fixing leaks quickly.
Signs you may need mold prevention
- Humidity above 60%
- Condensation on windows
- Past leaks
- Musty smells
- Poor bathroom ventilation
Common causes of the problem
- Leaks
- High humidity
- Poor ventilation
- Drainage problems
- Delayed drying
Conditions in Littleton and the south Denver area
Gutters, downspouts and grading that direct water away from the foundation matter in a region with snowmelt and summer storms.
Our service area spans Littleton and nearby communities in Arapahoe, Douglas and Jefferson counties.
What affects the scope of the job
Every home is different, so we look at the work area before giving an estimate. These are the factors that shape the plan:
- Home layout
- History of leaks
- Humidity readings
- Ventilation
- Drainage
Key terms in mold prevention
- Hygrometer
- A device that measures relative humidity.
- Downspout extension
- Moves roof water away from the foundation.
- Grading
- The slope of soil around a home.
- Ventilation
- Moving moist air out of the home.
Related services, guides and areas we serve
- For drying and humidity, see Moisture Control.
- For bathrooms, see Emergency Bathroom Mold Removal.
- For basements, see Emergency Basement Mold Removal.
- For clearance, see Post-Remediation Clearance.
These guides go deeper on common questions: How to Stop Mold From Coming Back, How Mold Remediation Works, Step by Step, Can You Remove Mold Yourself? DIY vs Pro, What Affects Mold Removal Cost?. See the ZoneGuard home page for the full list of services. We provide mold prevention to homes in Littleton, Southeast Littleton and Centennial, Columbine, Columbine Valley and Bow Mar, Ken Caryl, Highlands Ranch, Roxborough, and you can see every community and ZIP code on our service areas page.
Frequently asked questions
Can mold come back after remediation?
Yes, if moisture returns. Fixing the source and keeping the area dry are the best ways to prevent it.
What humidity should I keep my home at?
EPA guidance suggests below 60 percent and ideally 30 to 50 percent. A hygrometer shows you the level.
Do you fix the leak or drainage problem?
We do mold removal only. We point out the likely moisture source so a plumber, roofer or drainage contractor can repair it.
What humidity level prevents mold?
The EPA recommends keeping indoor humidity below 60%, ideally 30 to 50%.
How fast should I dry water damage?
Within 24 to 48 hours.
Do exhaust fans help?
Yes, if they vent outdoors and are used during and after showers and cooking.
Do you fix drainage?
No. We do mold removal only and point to other trades for drainage.
How do I stop mold from coming back?
Fix the moisture source, dry water damage within 24 to 48 hours and keep indoor humidity below 60%, ideally 30 to 50%. See how to stop mold from coming back.
Does a dehumidifier help with mold?
It helps keep humidity in range, but leaks and wet materials still have to be fixed.
Related services
Helpful guides
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