Before

After

Kitchen Counter Problems

After a mold disaster in this customer's kitchen, we had to rip the counter tops and backsplash and completely remodel it. On www.doityourself.com they offer this insight into how mold and mildew can end up in your kitchen.

1 - Water Leak

Mildew will only form and spread if conditions are conducive for it to do so. Water leaks are a common reason why mold develops and that in turn gives rise to mildew.

2 - Dampness and Elevated Humidity

Mildew will grow in surfaces that are damp and where there is also higher level of humidity. When conditions are hot for long periods of time, it makes it easy for mildew to grow more rapidly. Kitchens are areas where conditions are generally hot and humid and so it is a place where both mildew and mold can easily thrive.

3 - Moisture and Supply of Nutrients

Both mold and mildew will need a place in which to grow where moisture and sufficient nutrients are available in order to thrive. In conditions that are sufficiently moist, it takes less than a day for them to grow. They can also grow where there is darkness which is a doubly dangerous problem as the growth will not be detected until much later.

4 - Kitchen Sink Leakage

A leaking kitchen sink can create conditions that are conducive to mold growth. In fact, the hidden growth of mold in the bottom and beneath a kitchen sink is a common occurrence because of this.

5 - Garbage Disposal

If the kitchen garbage disposal is not kept clean, the presence of rotting foods will give rise to mold and mildew. However, in order to prevent this from happening, pouring 3 to 4 cups of vinegar down the garbage disposal once a week can help prevent the problem.

6 - Fridge Related Mold and Mildew

These fungi will grow in a fridge, despite the temperature on account of the fact that old food that is left for long in the fridge will make conditions right for mold and mildew growth.

7 - Check Cutting Boards

Fungi will grow very easily on cutting boards unless the cutting boards are cleaned with vinegar which in turn must be allowed to set in the board for ten minutes after which by rinsing the board, it is easy to prevent fungal growth.