Is There a Possibility That You Have Mold Spores in Your Garage? Here's What to do

We don’t normally think much about our garage when the subject of mold developing comes up in conversation, but mold can indeed plague your garage, just as it can appear in any other places in your home. But the good news is, if you suspect there is garage mold present, it’s often less difficult to eradicate it from your garage than from other parts of your house. The worst problem you’ll face regarding mold removal ~ besides applying the correct disposal methods and taking the proper safety precautions ~ is making sure that you get all of it. When it comes to your whole household, this can sometimes involve excavating of the surrounding walls and of the perimeter ~ and this can be very expensive. On the other hand, finding and removing mold from your garage walls is much easier than uncovering and eliminating mold from all the inside walls of your entire home.

The strategies needed for putting a stop to garage mold are the same as for foiling any other kind of mold. Mold grows in a dark, moist, unventilated environment. Accordingly, you’ll prevent mold by 1) making your garage as dry as you can, 2) not allowing the garage to get totally dark, and 3) making sure it’s continually well-ventilated.

Stop the Mold in its Tracks, Right Now

If your garage is not made out of metal or other mold-hindering materials, then be more meticulous to prevent mold from penetrating your garage. First, reduce the air’s moisture content. Buy an air dehumidifier. Daily, make it your goal to keep the garage well-ventilated: Leave your garage door open whenever you’re around, to air it out regularly.

Keep all moisture out, so mold won’t get a chance to develop. Water can enter if there are any leaks. Therefore, always keep the roof of your garage in tiptop condition. Allowing fresh air in, and maintaining your garage overall, will preclude garage mold from ever forming in the first place. Sunlight will also help keep mold away.

Remove the Mold from Your Garage

Garage mold can cause respiratory problems for some folks, if they’re sensitive to it. If so, then wipe it out. Eradicating mold from your garage isn’t easy. During the process, mold spores will get stirred up, which can be irritating to some people. Avoid any possible complications: Hire an expert who will do a thorough job.

Starting from Scratch?

If you’re building a brand-new garage, then build it from materials that are inhospitable to mold. First, construct it with metal (not wooden) studs. Metal studs will necessitate additional tools and expertise, but a savvy contractor with in-depth experience won’t have any trouble constructing a fine-quality garage.

Regarding siding, pre-coated aluminum or vinyl are ideal for the garage walls. If you choose materials besides wood, you’ll thwart the possibility of mold spores, and also ward off any wood-eating pests.

Take Preventative Measures: Maintain Your Garage Door

Your garage door plays a bigger part in your property’s value and curb appeal than you’d think. If you keep your garage door in good shape, you’ll protect your garage for many years to come. To prevent mold effectively, an insulated garage door makes the most sense.

If you desire to make your garage door last a long time, then if you choose construction materials of outstanding quality, your garage door will be exceptionally resilient. Garage doors these days are better than those of decades ago, because they’re manufactured according to stricter safety standards. For instance, a prime-quality garage door provides a successful barrier that maximizes heat-transfer reduction. Garage door sections and hardware of extraordinary-quality garage doors often come with superior warranties.

Lubricate. Without lubrication, your garage door springs will eventually rust, and the coils will bind. Always lubricate the garage door hinges, rollers, and springs. At least annually, before winter arrives, lubricate the springs. Don’t choose anything too heavy, because that will attract grime. Use a top-name brand; a light coating is all that’s needed. Take a close look at the garage door opener's main gear, also, and lubricate it with white lithium grease.

Keep it in working order.

1. Operate the garage door one full cycle (open and close), making sure it moves smoothly.
2. Examine the automatic reversing garage door opener feature: While the door’s on the way down, grab it, giving it a little resistance, and see if it will reverse. If it doesn't, then the opener's sensitivity needs adjusting.
3. If your garage door doesn’t reverse, or if you notice any other problems, hire a garage door specialist.

Keep it clean. To extend the life of your garage door, wash it at least yearly. On both sides, use a sponge with clean water and mild dish soap. Rinse well. Don’t forget the garage door opener sensor eyes: Cleanse them with a clean, dry cloth. Keep the space around the sensors free of cobwebs, dirt, and stray objects.

Keep it balanced. Twice per year, check the garage door’s balance:

1. Disconnect the garage door from the opener: Pull down the rope, which is hanging from the opener; this disconnects the door so you can lift it by hand.
2. The garage door should balance about 3 or 4 feet from the floor. If there’s any resistance, if it’s too heavy, or if the door still won’t stay up, the spring requires adjusting.
3. Read your owner's manual for how to reattach the garage door to the garage door opener.

Establish a routine maintenance schedule. Once each month, investigate every element of your garage door system. Replace worn parts. Tighten loose bolts. If you hear any strange noises when the garage door opens or closes; if you discover any problems with pulleys, wires, cables, or springs; then you must track down a garage door repair professional. It’s best to schedule an annual inspection with a legitimate garage door repair company.

DON’T EVER adjust the spring tension on your garage door by yourself! Garage door springs pack a punch, so if they’re not correctly serviced, they can cause injury or even be deadly. The bottom brackets (to which the cables are attached), the cables, and the drums all have great pressure behind them. If any components need adjustment, repair, or replacement, hire a reputable garage door technician. If you’re in Welby, Colorado, choose a trustworthy local service such as Welby Garage Door Repair.