Basement Mold

Mold is a fungus that can grow both indoors and outdoors. It thrives in humid environments like damp basements and can cause a number of health problems, including respiratory issues, skin irritation, and allergies. If you suspect you have mold in your home, it's vital to take action right away.

What mold is and what it looks like

Mold is a type of fungus. There are different varieties of mold, including mildew and black mold. It's black mold that is often found in damp basements. Smaller spores float through the air and can be easily inhaled. Mold often takes on a musty smell, though some molds have no noticeable smell at all. It can appear as a type of fuzzy growth, usually on the surface of whatever it is growing on.

The dangers of mold exposure

Inhaling or ingesting mold spores or other fungal organisms can cause a variety of health problems, including respiratory issues, nausea, headaches, and fatigue. In fact, many people who suffer from allergies are actually reacting to mold. There is also some evidence that mold exposure may cause neurological problems, including memory loss and mood changes.

So if you think you have mold in your basement, act quickly to resolve the problem and protect your family's health.

How to spot mold

If you suspect there is mold in your home, the first thing you'll need to do is find it. Even if it's hidden behind walls or under flooring, the moisture that mold needs to grow can cause damage, which will become apparent when you look at the surface it is growing on. For instance, if there are black spots on drywall or hardwood floors, this could indicate a mold problem.

The importance of ventilation

For the best results, call in professional waterproofers who can deal with the mold for you. If you handle it yourself, you will need to clean the areas affected and tackle the underlying cause of the mold - moisture.

Mold needs moisture to thrive. If you have seen any signs of mold in your home, you should identify and eliminate the source of moisture. Otherwise, the mold will likely come back. The best way to remove excess moisture is by increasing ventilation: open windows and use fans and dehumidifiers. If possible, run a humidifier or vaporizer.

You should also be sure to remove any porous materials that have been damaged by the mold (e.g., carpeting). If there has been a larger mold growth, it's important to use protective gear including gloves and masks. Don't forget to ventilate well during and after the cleaning of the area, as the products can generate fumes. Always follow any safety instructions on the bottles if you are cleaning up mold yourself.

If you have a water problem in your basement, consider having it fully waterproofed once the mold is removed.

 Mold prevention tips

 The best way to protect your home from mold is to create a dry and well-ventilated environment. Keep the humidity in your house under 50%. Use fans and dehumidifiers when necessary, and take out any materials that might be trapping moisture (e.g., carpets). If you store items in sealed plastic bags, make sure they have been thoroughly dried before sealing them up.

Mold can cause a variety of health problems, so it's important to take action if you suspect there is mold lingering in your home. If you have a problem with mold in your basement, call us today for a free estimate. We'll help you remove the mold and keep it from coming back.