Mold can grow anywhere, especially if moisture is nearby. Aside from keeping your exterior windows tightly sealed and dry, there are other ways you can prevent mold from growing on your window sills. With a little diligence and basic housekeeping, you can keep your window sills looking beautiful and mold free for years to come.
Use Mildew Resistant Paint
Mildew resistant paint is a great idea and will keep mold from getting started in the area. Be careful to keep children and pets away until it dries. Mildew resistant paint can come in any color and contains components that inhibit the growth of mold and mildew.
Keep Thermostat Above 70 Degrees
Keeping your thermostat at 70 degrees or above will prevent moisture from collecting inside the home and keep mold growth to a minimum. Temperatures lower than this create a perfect environment for mold to flourish. Maintaining a constant temperature also makes it easier for your heating and cooling units to keep up with the changing weather outside.
Use A Dehumidifier
Place a dehumidifier in a central location in your home. This will reduce any moisture that makes its way inside and will also help to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Collection trays on humidifiers must be dumped frequently to prevent the buildup of bacteria. It will also help to keep your home smelling fresh.
Maintain Good Airflow
When your heating and cooling unit is running, you have good airflow throughout your home. If you don’t want to run the A/C or heater all the time, put your fan on the “Auto” setting to maintain positive airflow. This helps to maintain a constant temperature as well as reduce the amount of moisture in the air.
Clean Window Sills Regularly
You should also clean your exterior window sills regularly. Using a warm, moist cloth and mild soap will be enough to remove dust and debris and prevent mold growth. If you begin to notice mold starting to form, use a mixture of three parts warm water and one part bleach to scrub it away. Repeat the process often to keep the mold from returning.
A tight exterior window seal helps prevent mold from forming simply because it doesn’t allow moisture to creep in around the window. By taking the above steps, you will reduce the risk of mold growth by making sure the environment in your home is comfortably dry. Mold needs moisture to thrive, so with that being said, good airflow and a top of the line humidifier will lay the ground work for keeping it at bay. When the right type of window is installed, you have a three-way, protective line of defense that will keep your home beautiful and mold-free.
