Molds aren’t just cosmetically unappealing and smelly. They may exacerbate allergies and health issues and can signify structural problems, especially if they appear in your basement.
What makes molds dangerous is that they can spread indoors easily, especially in areas vulnerable to moisture. They form within 24 to 48 hours following water damage and spread through spores, which can thrive on any organic surface, including wood, paper, or cloth. One type of species, black mold, may even cause breathing problems among vulnerable people in the household.
If you are facing this problem, continue reading this article for invaluable information. Besides learning the signs of mold infestation, you’ll also find helpful tips on basement mold removal, including when to call professionals.
Signs Of Mold Formation In Your Basement
Mold formation is easy to spot in most cases. The signs can be seen with the naked eye or smelled. Head on to your basement and look for some of the following clues:
Discolorations
Check your walls, ceiling, and other surfaces for telltale signs of mold formation, notably green, white, orange, or black specks, especially on the corners.
Musty Smell
Sometimes, molds form in hidden sections of your basement. However, molds often emit an earthy aroma that’s difficult to miss.
Allergies And Other Symptoms
Individuals particularly sensitive to these fungi may suffer from sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, and itchy nose and throat.
Cracks, Holes, And Deformities
Molds need moisture to survive. They also often form in areas where water can seep into them. Leaky wooden ceilings and walls often show signs of warping and other deformation.
Spotty Rugs And Furniture
Molds can develop on other basement surfaces besides walls and ceilings. Check your furniture, rugs, and carpets for spots and further growth.
High humidity and condensation make your basement more susceptible to mold formation. Without proper insulation, waterproofing, and ventilation systems, your underground area becomes a good target for mold growth.
How To Get Rid Of Mold In A Basement
Depending on the extent and location of the damage, a homeowner can either remove molds or seek professional help.
Remove Mold-Infested Materials
Wear protective gear like gloves, goggles, and masks before initiating the cleaning process. Secure your basement and ensure proper ventilation while looking at all possible areas with mold formations. Remove all items with visible growth, for instance, furniture, curtains, clothing, carpets, and rugs.
If you can’t pinpoint mold formations, it’s best to call professionals to check your walls. They might need to break some sections of your basement apart and replace the damaged portions or recommend a home upgrade.
Identify The Problem Source And Fix It
Identify the source of the mold to prevent its regrowth and preserve your home’s structure. Determine the moisture intrusion or look for areas in your basement where mold generates. It could be a leaky pipe, an out-of-shape roof, or cracked walls. Depending on the condition and scope of the damage, you may need to have your siding, walls, roof, pipes, or ceiling repaired or replaced.
Hiring professionals to do this job is important, especially when your home’s foundation is compromised. Only skilled and experienced professionals can perform such jobs properly, keeping your home safe for years.
Create A Mold-Killing Solution
If you’re lucky enough to spot the issue early, you can remove the mold using a water-based cleaning solution. Avoid using toxic chemicals such as commercial cleaning solutions that contain formaldehyde and ammonia. Bleach may be used, but make sure to mix it with water.
Mixing water with vinegar, baking soda, or liquid dishwashing soap is good for a safer cleaning solution. When mixing the solution, make sure you’re in a safe place away from children and pets. Transfer the cleaning compound into a spray bottle.
Scrub The Mold Off
Spray the soliton on the affected area. Use a towel, cloth, or brush to remove the mold. For persistent mold stains, allow the mixture to say for up to one hour before brushing or wiping the area clean. Repeat the process until the mold is completely removed
Know When To Call Professionals
In cases where the mold colony has inflicted serious damage on your basement and is aggressively spreading in sections that can’t be replaced, it’s best to look for certified mold removers to manage the situation better.
Preventing Regrowth
Besides repairs and restoration works, you can perform the following additional tasks to help reduce the risks of mold infestation in your basement:
- Install wall insulation
- Enhance ventilation
- Repaint walls with moisture and mold-fighting additives
- Use a humidifier
It also pays to have your roof, pipes, and heating and cooling systems checked regularly to spot issues and fix them to avoid costly repairs.
Wrapping Up
Too much moisture and insufficient ventilation are two primary reasons your basement is prone to mold formation. Removing them is usually easy, except for major infestations requiring professional help. Because molds can cause health issues and be a sign of potentially significant structural problems, removing the infestation is insufficient. Building owners ensure their property’s safety and integrity by hiring experts to assess and boost structural soundness following severe mold problems.
