How Healthy Is Your Bathroom?

Water damage can wreck havoc on a house bringing rot and mold with it. Bathrooms are a common place for water damage to be  found. It is imperative to the health of your home and your family's health to minimize moisture; any leaking valves or plumbing issues should be addressed quickly.

Eliminate any signs of mold before they affect your family's health. Mold is attracted to moisture, by keeping your bathroom as dry as possible you keep mold spores from becoming attached. Wash towels, rugs, and fabric curtains often. Avoid using wallpaper in your bathroom as moisture can get stuck behind it allowing for mold growth to be hidden in the wall.

Leaking valves are a common cause of water damage in bathrooms. Leaking valves can cause rust and corrosion in your sinks, toilets, and showers. Make sure you know where all of your shut-off valves are in case of leaking or emergencies, including your main shut-off valve. In your bathroom there should be a shut-off valve behind each toilet.

Water damaged bathrooms are a common issue found within foreclosed or abandoned houses. Houses that have been left with water running for long periods of time while not being used or maintained run the risk of water damage running rampant. Repair costs for water damaged bathrooms can be very expensive.

Here are some tips to help maintain the health of your bathroom:

• Use exhaust fans that vent outside your home to remove moisture in the air.
• Allow for air circulation by keeping shower curtains and doors open after use.
• Regularly inspect and repair any leaks.
• Wipe up any spills around the shower, tub, or sink areas.
• Wash towels, curtains, and rugs often.
• Sanitize and disinfect toilet, sink, shower, and bath areas frequently.

The key to maintaining your bathroom is keeping all surfaces as dry as possible. Always contact a professional if you are unsure of completing any repairs yourself.