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Three Ways To Prevent Mold In Your Basement

26 January 2018

Juanita Douglas

Basements can be havens for moisture, and when combined with dark lighting conditions, they can offer the perfect breeding ground for mold. Mold can cause respiratory issues, particularly in people who have asthma and allergies, and it can also be an unsightly addition to your home. If you are concerned about mold growth in your basement, use the following prevention tips to keep this area of your home free from mold.

Rethink Your Storage

Stacks of boxes crowded together throughout your basement can actually improve the likelihood of mold growth in your basement. This is because having a cluttered basement can restrict ventilation. With less ventilation, moisture might not evaporate as quickly as it otherwise would. Rethink your storage space by installing shelving units along the walls of the basement. Organize boxes on the shelves, but be sure to leave a few inches between the walls and your containers so air can circulate freely. If you have a lot of boxes to store, another option to consider is renting a self-storage unit. This frees up space in your basement for other uses while also helping to improve air circulation.

Repair Cracks And Leaks

Whether you have cracks in your foundation or around your basement windows, these breeches can allow moisture and even rainwater to come into your basement. As this moisture builds up over time, you may start to notice mold spots accumulating on your walls. Use caulk to seal cracks around windows, and hire a contractor to repair any foundation cracks that may have appeared in the walls. Be sure to check the floor for cracks as well, as moisture can also accumulate on the floor, particularly around floor drains.

Check For Condensation

Condensation can form on basement walls, particularly when the temperature outside is significantly higher than the temperature inside your home. Over time, the condensation can lead to mold growth. You can combat this problem by insulating your basement walls. This will create a barrier that prevents the outside temperature from impacting the humidity and moisture levels in the basement. You can also install an exhaust fan to circulate air and remove some of the condensation from the walls as it forms.

If you do notice mold growth in your basement, hire a mold remediation service. The service can test to see which type of mold you have growing and take steps to remove it. Once the mold is abated, be sure to take additional steps to prevent it from growing back over time. For more information, talk with a team such as DiBiaso's Cleaning and Restoration, Inc.   

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