Mold and mildew can be a very costly basement problem. Here are simple preventative tips for homeowners to take to keep mold and mildew growth out of their basement.
How to prevent:
Concrete basement walls are very susceptible to mold and mildew because they are porous. The combination between porous basement walls and basement moisture are ideal conditions for mold and mildew to grow. Preventing mold growth is a very important issue for many homeowners. Mold can ruin the integrity of your basement foundation and the rest of your home.
One step a homeowner can take against mold is eliminating basement moisture and water. Installing the SquidGee Dry System will dry up your wet, leaky basement. The SquidGee Dry System is not used to cure a mold problem, but can be an effective step in preventing mold and mildew growth in a basement. Another effective step homeowners can do to help defend their home against mold growth is adding natural light. A dark, damp basement is the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. By introducing natural light to the surface of basement walls, mold will have a difficult time growing.
Common causes:
A wet basement is the perfect condition for mold and mildew growth, because it is usually dark, moist and lacks proper ventilation. Addressing common risk factors for mold and mildew growth before the spores have the opportunity to spread through a basement and home is very important for homeowners to maintain the value of their biggest investment – their home.
Excess moisture and humidity
Due to the location of a basement, it is often plagued with excess moisture and humidity. This combination of moisture and humidity in a basement is what fuels mold growth. Placing a dehumidifier in the basement will reduce the water in the air. Also, a fan directing the air out of the basement will also help keep the air dry. Another easy way to reduce the amount of moisture and humidity in a basement is by opening windows for proper air circulation.
Lack of proper ventilation
Without proper ventilation, basement moisture and humidity can increase to deadly levels in a basement. This can cause a water issue and provide the exact conditions mold and mildew need to grow and spread quickly through a home. Airing out your basement regularly will maintain proper ventilation in your basement.
Leaking water pipes
Leaking pipes can be a disaster in a basement. Not only will it help mold grow faster and can waste water quickly, but it can severely damage a everything in your basement. Check your basement water pipes in the spring for any leaks. Contact a plumber immediately if you find a leak to fix it before it becomes a costly headache.
Dark basement
Introducing your basement walls and floor to natural light will help prevent mold and mildew growth. Mold and mildew have a very difficult time cultivating when natural light is present.
Poor grading around home’s foundation:
Check outside your home’s foundation for poor grading around the basement. Fill in and slope the soil away from the home. Look for areas that contribute to the collection of water next to your foundation and fill in to prevent pooling water.
Lack of gutter system
If you don’t have gutters or downspouts on the home, it would be a wise investment to add them. If you have gutters, check for and remove any debris clogging the gutters. Also, it’s important that the downspouts around the home extend at least 8 feet from the house to direct roof water away. Service walks that settled and slope back to the house should be adjusted to flow away from your foundation.