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Dealing With Basement Mold - Detecting and Preventing It
Mold growth is a headache that most homeowners deal with on an annual basis. As it’s almost impossible to eliminate all dark and moist spots in a home, mold growth is inevitable, especially if you have a basement. Since it is often dark, warm, and wet, it’s the prime candidate for hosting mold colonies.
However, that doesn’t mean you can’t take steps to prevent mold growth, as mold removal can often be stressful, mostly when it’s spread to the rest of your home. An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure, so it’s best to understand the causes of mold, how to detect it, and how to ultimately prevent it.
The Causes of Basement Mold
Damp, dark, and humid spaces are ideal environments for mold to grow, so you’ll want to inspect your basement for any water problems. Flooding or leaky pipes are often the culprits of the excess moisture in basement air, leading to the proliferation of mold colonies.
Another reason mold can appear in your basement is condensation that results from cold temperatures and high humidity. While you can’t control the weather, you can take steps to minimize moisture in the air and make sure your basement is inhospitable to mold.
Detecting Basement Mold
Mold is most detectable by its uniquely musty smell. As most basements have limited ventilation, you’ll have an easier time identifying strange odors. If you’re on the lookout for visible signs of mold growth, you may not have much luck, as they spread in dark areas that don’t see much light. However, if you see black spots on your wall, you’ll need mold removal services to eliminate the substance from your home.
The dangers of mold are far-reaching, making it essential to nip the problem in the bud right away. The moment you detect mold in your basement, you’ll want to call mold removal companies near you for immediate solutions.
5 Tips for Preventing Basement Mold
Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent mold from growing in your basement. Here are five tips to keep this dark space mold-free:
- Clean Frequently
One surefire way to keep mold from growing in your basement is to clean and vacuum the area regularly, as it will eliminate possible sources of mold growth. It’s best to use a vacuum with a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter, as it will also get rid of existing mold spores. Make sure to clean areas exposed to moisture more thoroughly, especially in tight and small spots. - Reduce Moisture
It’s essential to keep moisture levels in your basement down to a minimum, which is possible by investing in a heavy-duty dehumidifier. If your basement gets flooded because of a storm, ensure that it dries entirely within two days. You can also damp-proof your walls by applying a waterproof coating. - Repair Water Issues Immediately
When left untreated, water issues can lead to a widespread mold problem that will cause many health problems in your household. Inspect your pipes and walls regularly to make sure they’re in good shape. It’s also a good idea to check on your tubs, sinks, and other water fixtures to ensure that the plumbing is sealed correctly. - Keep Damp Items Away From the Basement
Objects like clothes, papers, books, or carpets are hotspots for mold growth, so you’ll want to keep them away from your basement. However, if you have to store them in this space, put them in plastic containers. - Install Exhaust Fans
Ventilation is key to ensuring that your basement is dry and mold-free, so installing exhaust fans throughout your home is a great way to keep the mold away. However, make sure that the vents release outdoors and not to your attic or crawlspace.
Mold Can Be A Stubborn Problem - But You Can Work To Prevent it
Luckily, there are many ways you can detect and prevent dangerous mold, keeping your home safe and free from health hazards. If you find yourself overwhelmed by mold growth in your home, however, it’s best to seek the services of mold removal companies near you.
Advanced Basement Waterproofing offers
mold removal services, basement waterproofing, and mold remediation throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts. We are waterproofing specialists that can seal your basement from water issues, preventing mold growth and allowing you to breathe easy again in your home. Get a free quote by contacting us today!
Advanced Basement Waterproofing specializes in complete basement waterproofing and sealing, mold removal and mold remediation, French Drain installation, basement electrical installation, and basement plumbing installation throughout Western Massachusetts and Northern Connecticut.