How to Prevent Basement Mold
Basements can quickly become the perfect breeding grounds for mold. This is because of the dark, moist characteristics of many basement spaces. While some molds are virtually harmless, there are many other types that can pose serious health risks to unsuspecting homeowners and their families. When it comes to basements, the likelihood of mold growth is amplified when compared to other rooms within the home because of the inherently wet, damp, or moist sub environment that exists. What’s more is that basements have an increased risk of flooding and they have much less air circulation than other rooms within the home; this is especially true for unfinished basements. The following are a few tips on how to prevent basement mold. If ever in doubt, contact an expert who specializes in mold removal in NJ. A professional remediation service such as this will be able to address the source of the moisture problem and reverse the damage caused by harmful mold growths.
Why Does Mold Thrive in Basements?
To identify mold, usually a black or green stain or spot appears somewhere in the basement such as on walls or the ceiling. Over time these spots may produce a musty odor throughout the room. The source of mold growth is almost always a wet or damp basement. Mold thrives in humid, moist environments making the basement the perfect place to reproduce. When moisture is present, mold can grow in as quickly as 48-72 hours. When mold appears, action must be taken immediately to address it before it spreads throughout the basement and even to other areas of the home. It can multiply rapidly and put the homeowner and their family at risk for major health implications. So, the first step towards preventing mold in a basement is to eliminate the source of basement moisture. Commonly, these may include ground water leaks, broken water heaters, or leaking pipes. The goal is to dry the basement so that the space does not promote mold germination.
Waterproof the Basement
Inherently it is a must that a basement is carefully designed so that mold has no chance of appearing. One of the first steps toward preventing basement mold is to waterproof the space. Mold has the potential to completely consume a basement if moisture is present. Such moisture can appear on floors, subflooring, under carpeting, dry wall, on ceilings and even on windows if left unattended. There can be growth that may not even be visible to the naked eye if the basement has not been completely waterproofed. For a mold-free environment, put in a water proofing system. A standard water proofing system is an interior draining system that moves water away from a home to prevent moisture accumulation. Essentially, there are trenches underneath the basement that collect water and discharge it away from the homes interior and exterior. A good water proofing system will protect the home and its occupants, as well as save the homeowner time and money. This system is a great long-term investment.
Why Does Mold Thrive in Basements?
To identify mold, usually a black or green stain or spot appears somewhere in the basement such as on walls or the ceiling. Over time these spots may produce a musty odor throughout the room. The source of mold growth is almost always a wet or damp basement. Mold thrives in humid, moist environments making the basement the perfect place to reproduce. When moisture is present, mold can grow in as quickly as 48-72 hours. When mold appears, action must be taken immediately to address it before it spreads throughout the basement and even to other areas of the home. It can multiply rapidly and put the homeowner and their family at risk for major health implications. So, the first step towards preventing mold in a basement is to eliminate the source of basement moisture. Commonly, these may include ground water leaks, broken water heaters, or leaking pipes. The goal is to dry the basement so that the space does not promote mold germination.
Waterproof the Basement
Inherently it is a must that a basement is carefully designed so that mold has no chance of appearing. One of the first steps toward preventing basement mold is to waterproof the space. Mold has the potential to completely consume a basement if moisture is present. Such moisture can appear on floors, subflooring, under carpeting, dry wall, on ceilings and even on windows if left unattended. There can be growth that may not even be visible to the naked eye if the basement has not been completely waterproofed. For a mold-free environment, put in a water proofing system. A standard water proofing system is an interior draining system that moves water away from a home to prevent moisture accumulation. Essentially, there are trenches underneath the basement that collect water and discharge it away from the homes interior and exterior. A good water proofing system will protect the home and its occupants, as well as save the homeowner time and money. This system is a great long-term investment.
Proper Ventilation & Dehumidification
Adequate airflow is also important for preventing basement mold. While mold spores do travel in the air and can cross contaminate other rooms within the home, the proper air exchange can help to send harmful mold spores outdoors. Exchange the air by bringing the warmer air from the attic into the basement which can dry out the basement’s contaminated air. One way to do this at home is to point a fan towards an open basement window. While this may seem counter intuitive, the damp air will be forced out and replaced with warmer, fresher air that dries out areas of moisture. Similarly, a dehumidifier will take excess humidity and condensation out of the home. Dehumidifiers work by taking the moist air out of the home. For instances of extreme flooding, a heavy duty industrial dehumidifier is an excellent solution, but a store-bought brand can work just as well if there is a general moisture problem.
Dangers of Basement Mold
Common dangers and health risks associated with mold include: upper respiratory infections, skin irritations such as dermatitis, eye irritations, inflammation in the nasal cavity or throat, coughing or hacking, internal bleeding and other allergic reactions such as stuffy or runny nose. Those who suffer from asthma are also at greater risk for having asthma attacks when mold is present. Repeated exposure to mold can even cause permanent damage. Elderly people and young children are highly susceptible to mold. So, as soon as a mold problem is recognized it should be addressed immediately before it spreads to other areas of the home where it can harm vulnerable family members.
For homeowners who think they may have a mold problem, contact a mold remediation company that can help to identify the type of mold that is present as well as the source of the mold problem. Remember, a basement is a unique environment that is a hotspot of mold spore germination. Mold can be a serious health hazard to New Jersey families, so take action immediately.
To learn more about basement mold, find a service provider who specializes in mold removal near you.
Adequate airflow is also important for preventing basement mold. While mold spores do travel in the air and can cross contaminate other rooms within the home, the proper air exchange can help to send harmful mold spores outdoors. Exchange the air by bringing the warmer air from the attic into the basement which can dry out the basement’s contaminated air. One way to do this at home is to point a fan towards an open basement window. While this may seem counter intuitive, the damp air will be forced out and replaced with warmer, fresher air that dries out areas of moisture. Similarly, a dehumidifier will take excess humidity and condensation out of the home. Dehumidifiers work by taking the moist air out of the home. For instances of extreme flooding, a heavy duty industrial dehumidifier is an excellent solution, but a store-bought brand can work just as well if there is a general moisture problem.
Dangers of Basement Mold
Common dangers and health risks associated with mold include: upper respiratory infections, skin irritations such as dermatitis, eye irritations, inflammation in the nasal cavity or throat, coughing or hacking, internal bleeding and other allergic reactions such as stuffy or runny nose. Those who suffer from asthma are also at greater risk for having asthma attacks when mold is present. Repeated exposure to mold can even cause permanent damage. Elderly people and young children are highly susceptible to mold. So, as soon as a mold problem is recognized it should be addressed immediately before it spreads to other areas of the home where it can harm vulnerable family members.
For homeowners who think they may have a mold problem, contact a mold remediation company that can help to identify the type of mold that is present as well as the source of the mold problem. Remember, a basement is a unique environment that is a hotspot of mold spore germination. Mold can be a serious health hazard to New Jersey families, so take action immediately.
To learn more about basement mold, find a service provider who specializes in mold removal near you.