Mold In Basements

Whether you’re dealing with it or not, it is important to understand various facts about mold in basements:

1. Common symptoms

The health effects of mold often go unnoticed. These effects include worsening of asthma symptoms, allergic reactions and various respiratory complaints.

2. Nothing is 100%

While there are effective ways to get rid of mold in basements, there is no method that can get rid of mold completely. Mold spores are ever present in the air. The only way to prevent an infestation after cleaning the mold is to apply preventative measures such as controlling moisture.

3. Elimination of moisture is needed

Moisture is required for the growth of mold. If you want mold remediation to be effective for the long term, it is important to eliminate the sources of moisture. You will otherwise have recurring infestations.

4. Humidity levels shouldn’t exceed 50%

High levels of humidity support mold infestations. It is therefore important to ensure that humidity levels in your home do not exceed 50%. You can reduce humidity levels in your basement by:

• Venting humid air from bathrooms, dryers and kitchens to the outside
• Using a dehumidifier in the basement and other parts of the home
• Ventilating the home by opening the doors and windows to increase airflow to the outside
• Using an exhaust fan to remove humid air from the kitchen whenever you are cooking or running the dish washer.

5. Clean-up spills, leaks and floods as soon as possible

It is important to clean and dry wet surfaces as soon as possible. Do not leave a leak or flood to remain unattended for more than 48 hours. This will help to reduce the chances of a mold infestation.

6. Avoid carpeting whenever possible

If possible, avoid carpeting especially in areas that are moist or humid. Carpets provide the perfect environment for the growth of mold.

7. Mold are everywhere

Just because mold is often found in the basement doesn’t mean that this is the only place they infest the home. Mold spores are everywhere. They can therefore grow just about anywhere as long as there is water, oxygen and organic substance they can use as food.

If you suspect that you have mold in your basement, be sure to get in touch with a professional remediation company. Have your home inspected in order to determine the extent of the infestation and eliminate the sources of moisture.