Do you want to prevent mold damage in your school? The following tips will help you along the way.
Mold, a product of moisture isn’t uncommon in commercial buildings, and schools are no exception. The most common reasons for moisture in schools are leaky plumbing and roofs, humidity and condensation. Other moisture problems in schools have more to do with the changes in construction practices, over the years. The new structures are tightly sealed, and keep moisture from escaping. Another reason behind moisture problems in schools is insufficient maintenance and budget constraints. Irrespective of what the reasons are, moisture gives birth to mold, which affects not only the school building but also the teachers and students within.
The following tips will help you prevent mold growth in your school.
Minimize Indoor Humidity
- Showers and other sources of moisture must be vented outside the building.
- Use dehumidifiers and AC units to control humidity and dampness inside the building.
- To keep indoor humidity levels between 30% and 60%, sufficient ventilation must be ensured.
- Exhaust fans must be used in cooking, cleaning, and dishwashing areas.
Inspect the School Building for Moisture, Mold, and Leakages 
- Mold has a musty and pungent odor, so use your nose well.
- Take a look around, and see if there are watermarks and discolorations on the walls, ceilings, window sills, and floors.
- Check the under-sink areas for water pooling, stains and mold damage.
- Also, check other areas in the bathroom for mold, moisture, discolorations, and pooling.
- Make sure water doesn’t stand in refrigeration or air-conditioning pans.
Take Timely Action When You Notice Mold, Moisture or Leaks
- To prevent mold, clean and dry any water-damaged area within the first 48 hours of water damage.
- To minimize the chances of mold growth, fix the sources of leakage.
- Clean the mold stricken surfaces and objects with warm water and a mild detergent. Rinse well, and dry them after they have been cleaned.
- Absorbent objects such as ceiling tiles need to be replaced if they are damaged by mold.
- Take a sneak peek into the mechanical rooms, for sometimes there are leaks spills, and unsanitary problems.
Moisture Condensation Prevention
To minimize condensation on cold objects, make sure to have them insulated. Insulation foam spray is affordable and is easily available at hardware and home maintenance stores.
Keep the Floors and Carpets Clean
- The stains and spots on your carpets and floors must be removed as quickly as possible.
- Be extra careful when removing moisture and residues from the floors and carpets. The areas should be dried quickly after cleaning.
- The areas with perpetual moisture issues are not perfect for carpet installation.
To keep your school free from mold, make sure to follow the aforementioned tips.
