Record Deep Freeze leading to burst pipes and mold concerns Horizon Pest Control advises homeowners to be on the lookout for mold.

Old Man Winter has come back with a vengeance this year, bringing with him record-breaking cold weather temperatures. Homeowners have had to contend with freezing pipes bursting resulting in costly repairs. This can lead to significant water damage or condensation if walls are not properly insulated. Extreme cold weather air holds less moisture which causes condensation on cold surfaces. This can cause mold to start growing. It can also be hidden in different areas of the home including behind drywall without the homeowner being aware of its presence.

“Mold found indoors comes from outdoor sources. Water damage, areas of high humidity or dampness are problems that should be addressed quickly,” said Bernard Holst, Jr. at Horizon Pest Control. “Flooding, roof and plumbing leaks from burst pipes this winter can cause problems not to mention damp basements or crawl spaces.The key is to eliminate moisture and to make sure these areas are well ventilated.”

Holst wants homeowners to recognize the common signs that you may have a mold problem:

·       A strange persistent odor

·       Appearance of mold

·       Dizziness, watering eyes, and congestion

“After discussing the common signs that your home may have a mold problem with homeowners, the next question is, “Can I use bleach to get rid of the mold?” The answer is, “no- it actually can make the situation worse” said Holst.

Here are a few steps homeowners can take to protect against mold:

·       Prevent excess moisture

• Excess moisture often comes from leaking pipes and plumbing fixtures. Fix leaks as soon as you spot them
• When building a home, make sure that the ground slopes away from the home so that water can’t pool or collect in the foundation
• Keep indoor humidity low. This is often a problem in basements, where the lack of ventilation coupled with the presence of plumbing fixtures, like water heaters and pipes, contribute to high levels of humidity. Dehumidifiers are the most effective solution for these
• Air out and clean your basement as often as possible to reduce moisture buildup
• Appliances that produce moisture, like clothes dryers and stoves, should be vented outdoors whenever possible to reduce moisture buildup
• Air conditioners also have a dehumidifying effect. Use them to keep your home cool and dry in the summer
• Be sure to wrap any cold pipes or coils in insulation so as to prevent condensation that can lead to excess moisture buildup
• Make sure that air conditioner drip pans are free to drain properly and are not clogged

To set up a free home inspection or learn more about mold services, please call 1-888-612-2847 or visit the website atwww.horizonpestcontrol.com. For more detailed information on mold services, visit our website:www.horizonmoldservices.com. Horizon Pest Control has been awarded the prestigious Angie's List Super Service Award for both Pest Control and Mold Removal in 2012 and for Pest Control in 2013. Horizon also offers termite control and management services with the Home Guard Plus, an environmentally-friendly pest control solution designed to maximize protection against termites while minimizing collateral damage.