The holidays are here again! Baking Christmas cookies, placing ornaments on the tree and stringing lights on the house are all important parts of getting into the spirit this year. Unfortunately, the holiday season is often accompanied by sneezing and congestion caused by the stored holiday items being brought out after having been forgotten for the rest of the year.
Wreaths, artificial trees, garland and even ornaments can be a hotbed of mold growth even in the cleanest garage as they sit forgotten in a box. Fiberglass and other insulation particles can work their way into the improperly stored items. Breathing these hazards in when pulling them out of storage can trigger an asthma attack, allergies or other breathing problems.
The problem is exacerbated even more during the winter season, when most homes are completely sealed off to protect them from the cold. It’s more difficult for fresh air to enter the home due to tight construction, tightly sealed windows, window caulking and sufficient insulation in Little Rock, AR. After insulation is installed, the tainted air has nowhere to escape out of the home, leaving it to be breathed in. Improper venting systems and wet crawl spaces only make matters worse.
Luckily, having good insulation in your home doesn’t have to be a major “bah humbug” situation. By being aware of the potential hazards, you can take the necessary steps to prevent it from being a problem:
- Store all holiday decorations in moisture- and dirt-free areas. Adding more insulation to attic storage areas will help keep commonly occurring household vapors from creating excess moisture buildup. The insulation keeps the vapors from becoming trapped and condensing on the walls, which can result in mold and mildew developing throughout the space. This is crucial, as moisture can easily occur just by taking a warm shower or boiling a pot of water on the stove.
- Clean any stored items with a damp cloth before placing them in storage. Make sure they are completely dry before packing them away for the season.
- Unpack all items outside or in the garage. This way, any lingering fiberglass or insulation particles can be removed before they enter your home, reducing the likelihood of allergens and mold spreading. Take this time to also clean that old stocking or tree skirt of any dust particles.
- The conditions in the storage area should be altered if any of your items are found to be covered in mold or dust. Mold growth—even if it is unseen—can negatively affect the air quality within the home year-round. Talk to a specialist about whether adding more insulation would help keep the problem from reoccurring in the future.
You don’t have to skip insulation to enjoy your holiday decorations. All it takes is a little bit of care and planning to avoid these hazards. Keeping your insulation in good condition is also key to ensuring it doesn’t become a threat. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact the professionals at Harris Insulation in Little Rock, AR.