Maintaining Your Watertown Sauna

12/18/2016 (Permalink)

Your Watertown Sauna May Be at Risk of Having Mold Damage

A sauna experience can be quite healthful and relaxing, but because of the humidity and heat which is generated in combination with human contact, it is also the perfect place for mildew and mold to grow. You can take some easy steps to take to keep your sauna looking great and to discourage mildew and mold growth. Most saunas are constructed of unfinished wood like red cedar. Putting an applied finish on will make the surface very hot to the touch. One exception to this is finished duckboards, the loose platforms on the floor, and applied finishes on door handles using polyurethane or varnish to keep constant contact from turning them dirty and dark.

Maintaining Your Sauna

The last thing you want to have in your sauna is mold damage, as this could create costly cleanup or replacement.To keep your sauna from having mold damage in Watertown, keep up with the simple steps below on a regular basis:

Using plain water and a soft-bristled brush on the benches and walls each time after use will get rid of dust and dirt. If perspiration has stained and accumulated on the wooden benches, a warm solution of water and a bit of mild detergent can be used with a sponge or soft bristle brush to wipe down surfaces.

Without using excess water, ensure you are rinsing the wooden surfaces after each use thoroughly with a clean terry cloth or sponge. Also, lift the duckboards and set them against the benches before leaving your sauna.
If you do see mildew or mold start to grow on the surfaces, you should seek professional help from a mold remediation service such as SERVPRO, who have the right equipment to get rid of the mold properly. They can also check for any mold which might be hidden.

Occasionally, perspiration will stain the wooden surfaces a dark color. Using a solution of oxalic crystals and warm water will lighten the wood and return it back to its original look. If you have a wooden bucket in your sauna, it should be tipped over before you leave the sauna. You should also prop open the sauna door when you are done to let the right air flow in. This will help prevent bacteria and mold growth.

Lastly, do not pour big amounts of cold water over the hot sauna rocks, as this can damage them. Instead, pour no more than a cup or so of warm water over the rocks at one time to get the steam that is desired.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

If after all your efforts you still wind up getting mold growth in your sauna, remember to contact us at SERVPRO of Wilson County instead of trying to clean it up yourself. We have the knowledge and experience to get rid of your mold problem, so do not hesitate to give us a call at (615) 449-5000.