Wet Basements Create a Breeding Ground for Mold Growth, Especially Behind Drywall and Paneling
When you enter your basement, what is the first thing that hits your nose? If it is a musty smell, you probably have a mold situation in your home. Mold can thrive anywhere in your home, from the attic to the kitchen, but the basement provides even better survival conditions, especially if you have drywall or paneling. Some basements experience mold problems because they were built with substandard walls for below-grade construction, while others because of plumbing issues. Whatever the cause of your mold problems, you can take measures to prevent its growth.
Make Your Basement Mold-Free
According to experts, mold is a natural constituent of the environment that is difficult to eliminate completely. However, this is not an excuse to ignore the mold situation in your basement. While it may be impossible to eliminate, you can reduce and prevent its growth by taking the necessary measures.
Addressing External Mold Causes
Observe the direction in which the rainwater streams after hitting your roof. Rainwater will almost certainly enter your basement if the ground around your house is steeper than it is or at least at a comparable level. If that is the case with your home, you need to consult your contractor to devise a solution.
Even when it doesn’t hit the ground, rain can still cause issues. Your home’s windows can also be a concern. Examine your frames and window wells for indications of faulty insulation or possible accumulation concerns. To guarantee appropriate water flow, remember to clean the gutter as well. Make sure that every downspout extends far from the house, particularly if the grading is subpar. By doing this, you will be certain the rainwater runs off your house rather than into it.
Addressing Internal Mold Causes
Professional mold remediation services are important if mold is discovered and covers a large area. The best defense is to reduce the risk of mold growth by controlling your internal moisture issues. If all the external dampness causes are corrected, focus on the humidity level, as it is the main indoor source of mold. Improper air movement is the primary issue contributing to humidity in the basement. Hardly are windows left open, preventing the flow of fresh air. Consequently, installing air ventilation systems is essential, and if you don’t often open the windows, you need to start doing so. As long as the weather permits, leave your window ajar, but if this does not help, install dehumidifiers in the basement.
Your basement could also be moldy because of leaking pipes. Get a certified plumber to check the situation of your pipes and, if possible, insulate them to prevent more leaks. You will only succeed in mold prevention if you deal with the root causes.
