Non-Toxic Home-Building: Mold Prevention Strategies
Mold, a type of fungus that thrives in moist environments, can pose significant health risks and create an unhealthy living space. When building a new home, it's crucial to implement effective mold prevention strategies to safeguard your health and the integrity of your property. This blog discusses essential mold prevention measures to consider, including air sealing with house wrap, proper window flashing, sealing all openings, and using cement backing for wet walls. By incorporating these strategies, you can create a healthier, mold-free home that promotes well-being and protects your investment.
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Wanting to build a non-toxic home that doesn’t compromise the health of your loved ones?
Here is one crucial truth: A home with all of the “healthiest” materials is meaningless if infested with mold.
Mold prevention might not be the sexiest topic, but trust us, it's the unsung hero in ensuring a safe and wholesome living space. The non-toxic home conversation is hollow without a discussion of mold prevention.
The good news is that building a new home with superior construction techniques focused on weather and moisture sealing is your best strategy for preventing mold from ever becoming a threat.
Side note: if you want to dive even deeper into non-toxic home building, download “10 Non-Toxic Swaps For Your Custom Home”!
Mold Prevention Construction Strategies
1.Air Sealing with House Wrap
Air sealing with house wrap is an essential step in preventing mold growth. House wrap is a moisture-resistant barrier that is applied to the exterior walls of a home. It helps to prevent moisture from entering the walls, which can create a breeding ground for mold.
When choosing house wrap, look for a product that is specifically designed for air sealing. It should be water-resistant, vapor-permeable, and durable. Proper installation is critical to ensure that the house wrap is effective. It should be applied tightly and sealed at all seams and openings.
Exterior brand: https://475.supply/products/solitex-mento-1000
Interior brand: https://475.supply/products/intello-plus
2. Window Flashing
Properly installed waterproof flashing is essential in keeping mold at bay. Flashing is a material that is installed around windows to prevent water from entering the walls. It should consist of a waterproof material, such as metal or rubber.
When installing window flashing, make sure that it extends at least four inches beyond the window frame on all sides. It should also be sloped away from the window to direct water away from the walls.
3. Sealing Openings
Sometimes, the tiniest gaps can cause the biggest troubles. All openings in a home, such as vents, pipes, and electrical outlets, should be properly sealed to prevent moisture from entering and creating an ideal environment for mold growth. Use caulk or sealant to seal around these openings and ensure the seal is tight and durable.
A low-odor caulk: https://www.amazon.com/GE-GE284-Silicone-Kitchen-Squeeze/dp/B000PSE46S/ref=sr_1_4?crid=X8JLJ95XL62O&keywords=ge%2Bsilicone%2B2&qid=1699391197&s=industrial&sprefix=GE%2B2%2B%2Cindustrial%2C179&sr=1-4&th=1
A helpful blog on non-toxic caulks and adhesives: https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2021/07/chemical-free-glues-and-silicone-caulk.html
4. Cement Backing for Wet Walls
In areas where moisture is more prevalent, such as bathrooms and kitchens, cement backing should be used on the walls before installing tiles or other wall coverings. Cement backing provides a waterproof barrier that prevents moisture from penetrating the walls and reaching the studs- talk about a big bummer.
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Additional Tips for Mold Prevention
VENTILATE! Ventilation is the lifeline of your home in more ways than one. Keep the air circulating to prevent any moisture buildup that entices mold to hang around. This is yet another reason to invest in an ERV (energy recovery ventilator) for your home. Read our previous blog post on air purification for more details regarding this amazing system.
Any leaks? Don't delay—act FAST to preserve the integrity of your home.
Maintain humidity levels below 60% to create an environment inhospitable to mold growth, preserving the sanctity of your living space. (An ERV can assist with maintaining consistent moisture levels in your home.)
Following any water exposure, leave no surface unchecked. Thoroughly clean and dry to eliminate any chance of mold taking root.
By integrating these mold prevention strategies during construction, you're not just building a structure—you're establishing a truly healthy home free from toxins and the potential health risks associated with mold. Let's come together and craft a home that supports you and your loved ones by protecting your health for the long haul.
To dive deeper into this subject, check out this helpful blog post: https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2020/01/designed-for-mold-prevention-corbetts-tiny-house.html
P.S. Looking for more non-toxic home-building materials? Download “10 Non-Toxic Swaps For Your Custom Home”!