How is mold checked in outdoor storage?

Checking for mold in outdoor storage is an important measure, as mold can cause health problems and damage stored goods. In this article, we’ll go over how to check for mold in your outdoor storage and what steps you can take to remove and prevent it.

How to identify mold in outdoor storage?

Identifying mold in outdoor storage can be challenging, but the following signs may indicate the presence of mold:

  • Smell: Mold often has a recognizable, musty and earthy smell.
  • Colour changes: Mold can appear as black, green, brown or white spots on the walls, floor or ceiling.
  • Moisture: Moisture and water damage are common breeding grounds for mold. Check the corners and walls of the warehouse for moisture.
  • Allergy symptoms: If you or a member of your family get allergy symptoms such as nasal congestion, cough or eye irritation while in storage, it could be a sign of mold.

Checking and measuring mold

Checking for mold in outdoor storage can be done in the following ways:

  1. Visual inspection: Go through all surfaces of the warehouse, especially areas prone to moisture, such as corners and floor boundaries. Look for discoloration and spotting.
  2. Moisture Meter: Use a moisture meter to check moisture levels in your warehouse. High humidity can indicate mold growth.
  3. Mold testing packages: Various mold testing packages are available on the market, which you can use to collect samples and send them to a laboratory for analysis.

Mould removal and prevention

If you find mold in your outdoor storage, it is important to take steps to remove and prevent it:

  • Remove mold: Wear protective equipment, such as gloves and a respirator, and clean moldy areas with mold remover or a mixture of bleach and water (1 part bleach, 10 parts water).
  • Dry the warehouse: Make sure the warehouse is well ventilated and dry. If necessary, use a dehumidifier to reduce humidity.
  • Repair water damage: If there is water damage in the warehouse, repair it immediately to prevent mold from growing again.
  • Prevention: Use moisture control products such as dehumidifiers and make sure the warehouse is well ventilated. Check the warehouse regularly for mold.

Checking and removing mold from outdoor storage is an important part of warehouse maintenance. Regular inspection and preventive measures help keep the warehouse safe and healthy. For more information on checking and removing mold, you can find, for example, Terveyskirjasto and Allergy, Skin and Asthma Association.