Did you notice mold growing in your dark and damp basement? Here’s how to prevent mold in basement!
Mold growth is a common problem in different areas of the house. It is not just something that can damage the structure but can also cause health problems such as infections, cough, allergies, congestion, asthma, and rashes. This is why it is essential to prevent it in all ways possible.
Causes Of Basement Mold Growth
A basement is usually dark, damp, and humid, making it ideal for mold growth. Typically, mold starts to grow because of water problems like leaky pipes and flooding. Condensation due to extremely low and high temperatures is also a common cause of mold.
There is no better way to deal with mold than to identify its cause and stop it from spreading. However, it is still best if you can consider following our tips to prevent it.
Tips To Prevent Mold In Your Basement
After dealing with mold, the next thing you have to do is eliminate its causes and prevent reoccurrence. Here are some of the tips to help you do it.
1. Clean on a regular basis
Regular cleaning and vacuuming are essential in preventing mold growth. They help remove possible causes of mold and get rid of existing spores. When cleaning, pay attention to crannies, nooks, and areas with exposure to moisture.
2. Minimize moisture
Be alert and wipe any spills and leaks immediately. In case of flooding, you have to make sure to dry out the whole area within two days completely. Prolonged moisture exposure may cause mold growth.
3. Refrain from storing damp items
As much as possible, avoid storing damp items like carpets, papers, books, and clothes in your basement. If you cannot avoid it, store them in plastic containers instead of cardboard boxes.
4. Get rid of clutter
Visit your basement once in a while and see everything that you have been storing. Ask yourself if you will put those items to use in the next two years. If not, it is likely that you will not be able to use it again, so it is better to get rid of them.
Mold grows in anything that collects dust and holds moisture like fabric, paper, and wood. It is why you must refrain from hoarding such items in your basement before they cause a household problem.
5. Immediately repair leaks
Check your water pipes regularly so you can immediately repair any leaks. If your basement walls are not waterproof, they can also leak, so you also have to take a look at them.
6. Install exhaust fans
Exhaust fans are helpful in keeping your home dry. You just have to ensure that their vents are released outdoors and not to a crawl or attic space.
7. Monitor indoor humidity
Basement humidity must not increase over 60%. You can regulate it by using a hygrometer. A dehumidifier is also helpful in minimizing air moisture and decreasing indoor humidity.
8. Do not install carpeting
Carpets can be hard to clean, making them plausible for mold growth. It is better to use area rugs and washable floor surfaces in basements, which are easier to clean.
9. Keep plants out of your basement
Mold spores spread through the soil in your plant pots. If you really want to place plants in your basement, be extra-vigilant for the signs of mold and avoid overwatering them. Although plants are not usually placed in dark areas like basement as they require sunlight, it is still good to be informed.
10. Insulate water pipes and windows
Insulating your basement windows and water pipes will prevent condensation, especially at low temperatures. It can also help if you increase the indoor temperature as warm air can hold moisture without causing condensation.
How to detect mold growth in the basement
You can do all ways to prevent mold, but there is still a possibility of growth. It is why you have to know how to detect mold so you can do thorough mold cleanup.
Limited ventilation in your basement makes it easier to notice strange odors. The easiest way to detect mold is to smell its musty odor. Looking for visible signs does not usually work as mold grows in areas you do not usually see.
Another thing you can do is mold testing. You can either call for professional help or do it by yourself using a DIY mold test kit. Since black mold is very common, here’s a helpful guide to identifying black mold.
Removing mold from your basement
You can get rid of mold using ingredients in your home. Baking soda and vinegar are both acidic, so you can use them to scrub off mold and kill spores.
You can also use hydrogen peroxide. Just make a solution with water, spray it on the area, and leave it for at least ten minutes before scrubbing. You can also check out this guide on removing mold in your basement.
Conclusion
Basements are one of the areas of our homes that are not usually visited and are neglected often. Being plausible for mold growth, it is essential that you know how to prevent mold in basement.