You must ensure there isn’t any moisture in the room. This tip is one of the best ways on how to mold proof a basement.
It’s a common concern. Basements are usually dark and hidden underground, so they’re the perfect breeding ground for all mold types.
Sadly, sometimes mold can harm your health. This fact is the reason why it’s essential to mold proof all the rooms in your house, especially the basement.
What Causes Mold Growth In Your Basement?
Anything from green mold to black mold can grow in your basement. You need to learn how these fungi multiply quickly, so you can prevent them from growing.
These pests start from spores, and the room must have the conditions for them to proliferate.
Leaks in your basement
There’s always that hidden leak that goes unnoticed. These are the deadly lifeblood of mold spores.
Leaks increase the humidity and moisture in a room, so always check your pipes.
Excess moisture
Unattended spills and cracks can also lead to higher humidity in your basement. A dehumidifier will help you with this issue.
Condensation
These moisture bubbles develop on cold surfaces and can lead to mold problems during the winter months.
Covering these areas with carpets or rugs can also increase the risk of mold. There’s no room for ventilation or drying.
Faulty HVAC and ventilation
A clogged HVAC system can prevent moisture from evaporating. The air in your basement will become stagnant, and mold will flourish.
Flooding
A flood can cause severe damage to your home, and one of these is mold. After having stagnant water for 24 hours, the mold spores will grow.
It’s essential to have regular maintenance at home to avoid an infestation. Mold looks ugly, smells horrible, and it can lead to respiratory issues.
Where Can Mold Grow?
Mold can spread like crazy if it’s not attended to. You must always be alert for any signs.
Once an infestation is getting severe you will start to notice signs. Here’s a guide on how to test for mold in basement.
You may think that mold will only grow on your basement wall, but it can thrive on several surfaces.
1. Wood
Your basement flooring and framing could be made of wood, and mold thrives on this material. Wood has several pathways where mold can bore in.
Mold-infested wood becomes fragile, and it can lead to safety issues in your basement.
2. Drywall
Mold on drywall usually comes from a leaking roof. The moisture in this material can accumulate and lead to severe mold growth.
3. Carpeting and fabrics
You can’t properly clean the mold if it grows on these materials. You’ll need to throw them out once it has an infestation.
4. Pipes, faucets, drains, and HVAC systems
These parts of the basement can be prone to dripping. They need regular maintenance to check that the parts are secure.
Unattended drips can lead to moisture buildup, which causes mold on other parts of the basement too.
How To Prevent Mold In Your Basement
You need to clean off the mold once you spot it in your basement. The walls will be the most troublesome area to do.
Here’s a guide on how to remove mold from basement wall. Now that the area is clean, you need to prevent the mold from growing back.
Once you’ve fortified the basement, you won’t have to worry so much about a mold infestation anymore.
1. Waterproof the outside
Use gutters and drainage systems that will absorb excess moisture, and protect the interior from water damage.
2. Repair all damage
Cracks and leaks can be the beginning of a mold problem, so do the necessary repairs once you spot them.
3. Insulate your pipes
Protecting your pipes is essential for the winter months. It will also prevent them from developing condensation.
Insulation can prevent pipes from bursting when it’s too cold, so that’s a lesser risk of mold growth.
4. Invest in a dehumidifier
Humidity can provide the ideal environment for mold growth. A dehumidifier can control the moisture levels in your basement, thus starving mold spores.
5. Watch your laundry
Some people convert the basement to a laundry room. Remember to do the necessary precautions to prevent mold spores from growing.
Check that all the pipes are in good condition, and install an exhaust fan for good ventilation.
6. Avoid storing wood and plants
These materials are perfect breeding grounds for mold spores. Plants can also make the area damp, so mold is more likely to form.
Remember to keep your basement dry at all times.
7. Have proper ventilation
Spores will remain in the area and settle on the surface if there isn’t ventilation. Install exhaust fans or an HVAC system to keep the air in your basement moving.
Now your basement is safe, and you won’t have to worry about any pesky mold anymore!
Conclusion
Mold can be a significant nuisance; it destroys your home and causes health problems. These fungi are prone to grow in hidden or dark areas like your basement.
You can save a lot of effort and expense when you know how to mold proof a basement. Your home will be clean and safe for everyone in your family.