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Mold in the basement is a common issue that can have serious implications for the health and safety of a homeโs occupants. Mold thrives in damp, dark environments, making basements a prime location for its growth. When mold is present in a basement, it can release spores into the air, which may spread throughout the home, including living areas and bedrooms. This raises an important question: Is it safe to sleep in a house with mold in the basement? In this article, we'll explore the potential health risks associated with mold exposure, the factors that influence mold's impact on your home, and the steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.
Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid environments. It reproduces by releasing tiny spores into the air, which can be inhaled by humans and animals. While mold is a natural part of the environment, indoor mold growth can lead to a range of health problems, especially for people who are sensitive or allergic to it.
The severity of the health risks associated with mold in the basement depends on several factors, including the extent of the mold growth, the type of mold present, and the ventilation and air circulation within the home.
The safety of sleeping in a house with mold in the basement depends on the factors mentioned above. In general, it is not considered safe to sleep in a house with significant mold growth, particularly if the mold is actively spreading, producing mycotoxins, or affecting the indoor air quality.
Given these risks, itโs important to take immediate action if you discover mold in your basement. Delaying remediation can lead to worsening mold growth, increased health risks, and more costly repairs down the line.
If you suspect or discover mold in your basement, there are several steps you should take to protect yourself and your family:
Once the mold has been removed, itโs important to take steps to prevent future mold growth in your basement and home:
Sleeping in a house with mold in the basement is generally not considered safe, particularly if the mold is extensive, actively growing, or producing mycotoxins. Mold can pose serious health risks, especially for vulnerable individuals, and can affect the indoor air quality throughout your home. If you discover mold in your basement, itโs crucial to take immediate action to identify and eliminate the source of moisture, remove the mold safely, and prevent future growth.
For minor mold issues, DIY methods may be sufficient, but for larger infestations or toxic molds, professional remediation is strongly recommended. Taking steps to improve ventilation, control moisture, and regularly inspect your basement can help keep your home safe and mold-free, ensuring a healthy living environment for you and your family.
If you are experiencing potential mold issues in your basement or crawl space calling in a professional such as โ58 Foundations and Waterproofing that specializes in these services can help. We will provide you with a zero obligation FREE inspection to help you determine the severity of your situation and the best solutions available. Remember that putting an inspection off can lead to more costly remedies down the line.
Discovering mold in your basement can be alarming. Not only is mold unsightly and unpleasant, but it also poses serious health risks and can lead to significant structural damage if left untreated. The good news is that a moldy basement can indeed be fixed, but the process requires thorough assessment, remediation, and preventative measures to ensure that the problem doesnโt return. In this article, weโll explore the steps involved in fixing a moldy basement, from identifying the cause of the mold growth to implementing long-term solutions.
Mold thrives in environments where moisture is present. Basements are particularly susceptible to mold growth because they are often damp, dark, and poorly ventilated. Mold can grow on a variety of surfaces, including wood, drywall, insulation, and carpeting. The key to fixing a moldy basement is addressing both the mold itself and the underlying moisture issues that allowed it to grow in the first place.
Before you can effectively fix a moldy basement, itโs important to assess the extent of the problem. Mold can be visible on surfaces, but it may also be hidden behind walls, under flooring, or in insulation.
Inspection Tips:
Mold will continue to grow as long as moisture is present, so identifying and addressing the source of moisture is a critical step in fixing a moldy basement.
Common Moisture Sources and Solutions:
Once the source of moisture has been addressed, the next step is to remove the existing mold. Mold removal can be a DIY project for small areas, but larger infestations or toxic molds, such as black mold, may require professional remediation.
After mold removal, the affected areas may need to be repaired and restored. This can include replacing damaged drywall, insulation, flooring, and other materials. Itโs important to use mold-resistant products when restoring your basement to reduce the risk of future mold growth.
To ensure that your basement remains mold-free, itโs important to implement long-term preventative measures. These steps will help you maintain a dry, healthy basement and prevent mold from returning.
While many homeowners can successfully address mold issues on their own, there are situations where professional help is necessary:
A moldy basement can be a serious problem, but with the right approach, it can be fixed. The key to success lies in thoroughly addressing both the mold itself and the underlying moisture issues that allowed it to grow. By following the steps outlined aboveโassessing the extent of the problem, addressing moisture sources, removing mold, repairing damage, and implementing long-term preventative measuresโyou can restore your basement to a healthy, mold-free condition.
In some cases, particularly with widespread or toxic mold, professional remediation may be necessary to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the cleanup process. Whether you handle the issue yourself or seek professional help, taking action to fix a moldy basement will protect your home and your health, giving you peace of mind and a safer living environment for years to come.
If you are experiencing potential mold issues in your basement calling in a professional such as โ58 Foundations and Waterproofing that specializes in these services can help. We will provide you with a zero obligation FREE inspection to help you determine the severity of your situation and the best solutions available. Remember that putting an inspection off can lead to more costly remedies down the line.
When you think of your basement, whatโs the first thing that comes to mind? While many homes feature finished basements that provide additional living and recreational spaces, others are simply used as utility or storage spaces. But no matter what you use your basement for, all these below-ground floors share one thing in common: their tendency to collect excess moisture and grow mold.
As a homeowner, discovering mold in your basement can be an unsettling experienceโespecially since many types of molds produce microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) that are harmful to human health. And even if your basement seems dry, mold could be lurking behind walls, underneath carpet, or below your furniture unknowingly due to moisture vapor or humidity seeping in from your foundation or leaky pipes.
Fortunately, there are a few ways you can prevent mold in your basementโand they all encompass reducing the chance of moisture hanging around in the lower-level of your home. These prevention methods include:
Before we break down just what these prevention methods entail, itโs important to understand what mold is, how it can grow inside your basement, and the different types of molds that could compromise human health.
Molds are fundamental to the decomposition process of all living things, but some molds can be extremely dangerous to human health. While spores from molds are constantly all around us, higher concentrations of spores from certain types of molds can cause severe allergic or toxic reactions in those who are sensitive to them. This makes finding mold growing in your basement concerning, as harmful spores could be released throughout your living space.
As we mentioned earlier, spores from molds are all around us, which means they are also floating throughout the air inside your home. Unfortunately, molds only need two things to grow indoors: excessive moisture and organic matter to grow on like drywall, carpet, ceiling tiles, wallpaper, insulation, or wood. When indoor areas of a home are exposed to high levels of moisture or humidity, mold can take hold quickly. This is especially true for basements, as these spaces typically provide poor ventilation.
Basement moisture can be caused by two main sources, including outdoor moisture sources and indoor moisture sources.
Outdoor Moisture Sources
Outdoor moisture sources include rain, floods, or groundwaterโall of which can seep through cracks in your foundation or through improperly sealed window wells. Improper yard grading and clogged gutters can also play a role in moisture building in your basement.
Indoor Moisture Sources
Indoor moisture sources include leaky pipes, laundering clothes, over watering houseplants, and more. Anything in your home that causes high levels of humidityโwhich could include showering, cooking, or even breathingโand produces condensation can lead to a moisture-prone basement.
Types of Harmful Molds Found in Basements
Theย most commonย harmful molds found in basements include Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Aspergillus. Stachybotrys chartarumโotherwise known as โblack moldโโis a rarer type of indoor mold. As a homeowner, knowing the specific species of mold that is growing in your home isnโt necessary, as any presence of mold should be addressed by aย NORMIโ orย MICRO-certified professional with the proper knowledge and protective equipment. If you suspect mold is growing in your basement, contact โ58 Foundations & Waterproofing today for your freeย mold remediationย inspection and quote.
Preventing mold from growing in your basement starts with taking proactive steps to prevent moisture or humidity from building inside your home. Not only could these DIY moisture prevention methods reduce your chances of breathing in harmful mold spores, but they could also prevent costly structural repairs later down the road.
Repair Leaky Pipes and Insulate Them
Leaky pipes are a common moisture source in many homes, and they could be caused by improper installation or expansion over time that results in loose connections. Because leaky pipes are often difficult to find until itโs too late, itโs important to inspect your pipe infrastructure regularly for leaks or bad connections.
If you find a pipe that is leaking, be sure to apply plumberโs tape, a pipe joint compound, or give a professional plumber a call. If you live in an area with harsh winters, be sure to insulate your pipes prior to dropping temperatures. Uninsulated pipes could freeze and burst, which could cause a significant amount of water damage and mold growth.
Fix Cracks in Your Foundation
Cracks in your foundation that allow groundwater to seep through can quickly promote mold growth in your basement. Be sure to inspect your foundation thoroughly, both around the outdoor perimeter of your home and your basement walls, if possible.
If you find any cracks, fix them promptly with sealants such as flexible and expandable epoxy that wonโt dry or crack. For even more protection, try adding additional outdoor downspouts to your gutter or a French drain system to push water away from your foundation. You can also remove landscaping thatโs near any foundation cracks or add soil to the area to help promote better yard grading.
Seal and Insulate Windows and Window Wells
Improperly sealed basement windows or window wells can also lead to excess moisture in your below-grade floor. If you find condensation on your windows or feel air coming through their frames, be sure to seal any exposed area with a silicone latex-based caulk thatโs designed to withstand inclement weather. For your window wells, installing window well drains and adding fresh gravel can help keep hydrostatic pressure from building near your basement windows. Additionally, installing window well covers will prevent water from getting into your window well entirely.
Keep Your Gutters Clean
Keeping your gutters clean and debris-free is essential to promoting proper water drainage away from your home. Be sure to check your gutters frequently and clear any blockages you find or have a professional install gutter guards for easy and worry-free maintenance. If your yard has poor grading, consider installing gutter downspout extenders to ensure water isnโt pooling near your foundation.
Ensure Your Yard is Properly Graded
Poor water drainage in your yard can lead to rain or groundwater pooling around your foundation. To ensure water moves away from your home and doesnโt put hydrostatic pressure on your foundation or basement walls, proper yard grading is essential. Grading your yard starts with figuring out how itโs sloped, as well as its high and low points. Using a load of dirt, you can then begin to add more dirt near your foundation and gradually taper off as you get closer to the low point of your yard. You can also hire a professional landscaper to regrade your yard.
Note: If the dirt you add to your yard isnโt properly packed, even regrading wonโt always move enough water away from your foundation to prevent build up and hydrostatic pressure against your foundation walls.
Address Flood Water Immediately
Flood water from heavy rain, rivers, burst pipes, or sewage backups can easily make its way into your basement, regardless of the precautions you take. If this occurs, the speed in which you begin the clean-up process is important, as mold can start growing within 24-48 hours after water exposure. Be sure to remove all exposed items (e.g., furniture) from your basement immediately and place them in a well-ventilated area to dry. Itโs also important to remove any wet carpet, drywall, or insulation, as these materials can grow mold quickly.
Once all wet items are removed, you must begin the drying process immediately. Eliminate any standing water with a wet-dry vacuum or a sump pump, and place fans and dehumidifiers in the room to speed up drying times.
Use a Basement Dehumidifier
Outside of cleaning up flood water, dehumidifiers are great tools to use if your basement is naturally prone to collecting moisture, humidity, or condensation. Before selecting a dehumidifier, itโs important to measure your basementโs square footage to ensure the one you choose has enough capacity to keep things dry. In some cases, more than one dehumidifier might be necessary.
Avoid Houseplants in Your Basement
While houseplants are a great way to spruce up your basement living space, their soil and leaves are the perfect breeding grounds for mold. The easiest way to reduce this risk is to avoid having too many houseplants in your basement or remove them entirely. If you decide to keep plants in the lower level of your home, be sure to avoid overwatering them, check on their soil frequently, and re-pot them with fresh soil if you start to notice mold or mildew.
Launder Responsibly
Many homeowners turn a portion of their basement into a laundry room, and moisture and humidity are produced during both the washing and drying process. If your laundry room is in your basement, try to run a dehumidifier nearby.
Book Professional Basement Waterproofing Services
Even with the most comprehensive DIY moisture prevention methods in place, water can still find its way into your basement and cause mold growth. To ensure your basement is protected from moisture and mold year-round, professional basement waterproofing solutions should be your first line of defense.
Exterior Waterproofing Services
Exterior basement waterproofing systems utilize a waterproof coating that covers your foundation, as well as a perimeter drainage system (sometimes referred to as a French drain or curtain drain). Unfortunately, exterior waterproofing solutions can be expensive, as they require heavy equipment to remove soil and landscaping away from your foundation to make way for the waterproof coating and drain system installation. Exterior drain lines can also clog with silt over time, which means the entire system will need to be dug-up a second time to make repairs.
Interior Waterproofing Services
Interior basement waterproofing systems are much more affordable and efficient over time. Rather than digging up soil to apply a waterproof coating and install a perimeter drain, interior basement waterproofing systems utilize a perimeter drainage system indoors. This system then collects water and carries it to a sump pump that automatically pumps water out of the basement.
Trust โ58 Foundations & Waterproofing for Your Basement Waterproofing Needs
At โ58 Foundations & Waterproofing, weโve been experts in basement waterproofing solutions for more than 60 years. With our interiorย basement waterproofingย system, we install perimeter drain lines right where your floor meets the basement walls, making the system largely hidden. These lines are then directed to a sump pit where aย sump pumpย is installed. When water collects in the pit and triggers a float valve, the pump turns on and clears your basement of moisture.
Additionally, if your home features a crawlspace, ourย crawlspace encapsulation servicesย will actively work to keep moisture out. By sealing all crawlspace vents and air gaps with foam insulation, and then sealing your floor, walls, and columns with a 20-millimeter-thick vapor barrier, you can rest assured your crawlspace will remain moisture-free.
Stop living with moisture and mold in your basement or crawlspace;ย contact โ58 Foundations & Waterproofingย today for expert waterproofing and encapsulation services.
Theyโre both unwanted, and they both can cause problems when they show up. Some may use the terms mold and mildew interchangeably, but the truth is they are actually quite different! Mold and mildew are both types of fungi and they both love moist and damp areas. But their behaviors, traits, and appearance set them apart. Letโs take a look into how they differ from each other, so that you can better identify them and understand whatโs needed to get rid of them. This can help you protect your home!
When figuring out how to tell the difference between mildew and mold. Sometimes it can be determined with a careful look. Upon closer inspection, you might notice thereโs a distinct difference between how mold and mildew typically look in a home:
Mold and mildew also smell different. If youโre catching a whiff of something musty like wet socks, then you probably have a case of mildew. Mold, on the other hand, has a stronger smell.
Not all fungi live and grow the same. Mildew and mold have different ways of establishing themselves on an object. Mildew tends to remain flat on a surfaceโit likes to grow on the surface of objects and remain at that level. Meanwhile, mold likes to burrow deep into the material of where itโs growing. This affects how easy or hard it may be to get rid of the mold or mildew. Since mildew remains on the surface of objects, itโs fairly easy to get rid of. But since mold likes to dig deep into the places it grows, it can be a bit of a pain to remove.
While both mildew and mold can cause health problems for you or your loved ones, the difference is in what each can do. Here are the different symptoms caused by mildew and mold:
There are similarities between the two, but mold can potentially cause further health complications. Both are serious enough that you would want to take care of them before the problem gets worse. Should you spot mildew or mold, be sure to have it removed as soon as possible.
Since mildew lives exclusively on the surface of an object, it can be removed handily with household cleaners and a thorough scrubbing. This is not the same for mold, however. Since mold likes to dig deep into the object itโs growing on, it can be very stubborn to truly get rid of. Bleach or a specialized mold removal product might do the job. However, thereโs a good chance that you will need a mold remediation expert to take care of your mold problem.
If you attempt to remove the mildew or mold on your own, it is highly recommended that you wear a face mask and even eye protection if possible. This is for your safety and to avoid any potential allergic reactions. To ensure your safety and to make sure that the job gets done completely, consider contacting a mold expert to take care of the mildew or mold problem.
Since 1958,ย โ58 Foundations & Waterproofingย has been helping people keep their basements and crawlspaces dry, so that mold doesnโt have the chance to gain a foothold in their lower levels. But when mold manages to find its way into a damp basement or crawlspace, our experts have the expertise to properly take care of your mold problem. With โ58 Foundations & Waterproofing on your side, your home can remain free of hazardous mold! Give us a call today to learn about how we can help keep your lower levels dry and protected against moisture-loving mold. If you have an existing mold problem, weโll be happy to provide aย free mold removal inspectionย along with a detailed estimate on our mold solutions!
In most areas, the climate can get quite humid during the summer months. The relative humidity can average 80% during some months.
As the humidity rises, youโve probably felt the air get muggy. While thatโs to be expected, especially during the summer, it can be a different story if youโre noticing a change in the quality of your indoor air.
Does your home, especially your first floor, feel damp or humid? Does the air smell earthy or musty? Have you noticed an increase in allergy symptoms? If your home has a crawl spaceโthis may be the source of your musty home problems!
Whether itโs that humid summer air flowing into your crawl space, or groundwater seeping out of the soil during a heavy rainstorm, the presence of moisture and water in your crawl space can cause a variety of problem scenarios to happen. That musty smell in your home is just a byproductโbut of what?
Mold loves moisture. This is why youโre likely to find mold growing on soggy, rotten logs and dead plant matter. Itโs a key part of the natural cycle that returns rotting matter back to the soil.
Unfortunately, there areย mold spores virtually everywhereย we go. That also includes your crawlspace.
When moisture builds up and lingers around your crawl space, it can start to soak into the wooden structures of the crawl space. That same moisture can also cause mold spores on any wood to become active. With moisture to keep it alive and damp wood for a food source, the mold can begin to grow and colonize. In the process, the mold will start releasing new spores as part of its reproduction cycle.
Not only do these new spores help create new mold colonies in your crawl space, but those mold spores may also make their way to your living spaces above. As mold grows more in the crawl space, and mold spores begin to saturate the air in your home, that musty smell will also start to become noticeable.
But whatโs making those mold spores reach your living spaces?
As warmer air rises in your home, it creates a difference in pressure that causes the house to suck in air from the outside into the lower parts of your home. As the air moves upwards in the house, the air in your crawl space is going to be pulled into your homeโs living spaces. That also means anything in your crawl space air is being sucked up with it, including mold spores and that musty odor youโve been smelling.
Up to 50% of the air you breath in your home comes from your under your home, according to the EPA.
While there is no way to prevent mold spores from entering your home, there is fortunately a way to keep most mold spores from growing and spreading! As mentioned earlier, mold loves moisture. But without that moisture, the mold spores either wonโt be able to start growing or will remain dormant.
Removing the moldย is always a smart idea even if you plan to remove the moisture. This is because some molds can survive at lower moisture levels. Even with the methods to remove the moisture noted below, removing any present mold is prudent.
Now that we know that your crawlspace can be a source of that moisture, the question is: How do we keep the moisture out?
Thatโs whereย crawl space encapsulationย enters the scene. Essentially, encapsulation involves sealing your crawlspace away from outside air and intrusive moisture. A thick vapor barrier liner is used to encapsulate the crawl space, from the floors and walls to even the support columns. That way your crawl space is kept separated from that outside moisture and it can even be made into usable space.
Here are some of the products that might be used in crawl space encapsulation.
If your crawl space tends to flood or form puddles during a heavy rainstorm, itโs likely that your crawl space will also require crawl space waterproofing. This will involve the installation of drainage channels, a sump pump, and possibly other measures depending on your situation.
Your crawl space is just as much a part of your home as any other part. Whatโs more, the condition of your crawl space can have an impact on the comfort of your home. So, it makes sense that youโd want to have your crawl space encapsulated and/or waterproofed by a reliable expert.
While there are a lot of crawl space contractors out there, not all are made equal. Youโll want to do your research and make sure that the contractor of your choice has at least the followingโฆ
By checking off these requirements, youโll improve your chances of finding an excellent crawl space company that can protect your home against moisture and help you breathe easy again without that musty mold! For one long-historied expert that has these four qualities, consider calling โ58 Foundations & Waterproofing for aย free estimate for crawl space encapsulation and crawl space waterproofing solutions!
If you live near any of our offices (greater Knoxville, Chattanooga, or the Tri Cities; greater Atlanta; the Winston-Salem โ Greensboro area; theย Spartanburg โ Greenvilleย area; greater Richmond; Washington DC;ย greater Baltimore; Wilmington DE; Philadelphia and central PA) call us today for mold removal or crawl space encapsulation services!
Over 600 million years ago, long before humanity, some of the earliest species of terrestrial fungi were thought to grow on the earth, likely contributing to the oxygenation of our atmosphere. It is possible that fungi may have been a dominant form of life on our planet. Even after the massive extinction event that killed most of the dinosaurs, there was evidence that the large amounts of dead animals and vegetation led to an incredible fungal bloomโenough that, as published by the Public Library of Science (PLOS), it left its mark in the fossil record. Today, the descendants of those old forms of fungi continue to live in our world, and they are everywhere. For a number of them, we categorize them under a particular term: Mold.
Mold is not going anywhere. Across the many varieties of mold, they all come from a mighty lineage that has withstood the test of time and planet-wide disasters. They have evolved to spread and persist to the point that itโs almost impossible to keep an area completely free of their spores. But they play an incredibly important role in our world: decomposition. The cycle of life would be incomplete without the help of molds to return dead vegetation and creatures (including other decomposers) to the earth.
The relationship between humans and molds has a complex history. Though we have lived with mold for thousands of years, we are still trying to understand the way they interact with us and how we can better control moldโs presence, especially in our living spaces. Some molds have helped with medical advancements, and even for the creation of certain foods and alcohols. Meanwhile, other molds like to grow on grains, fruits, and other foods. Then thereโs the molds that may make us sick from their spores.
So how can we best coexist with the many molds in our world?
Letโs take a dive into some of the common molds you may encounter and how to prevent mold growth from occurring in your home!
This genus of mold is made up of hundreds of species. These molds are often found growing on particular types of food including starchy foods, some fruits, and nuts. But it is also capable of growing on plants and trees. Other species of Aspergillus are capable of growing on building surfaces such as walls, window frames, and bathroom surfacesโthese species favor warm and humid areas, especially if itโs a home with a moisture problem.
Some species of Aspergillus can unfortunately cause serious disease to people as well as animals. Also, some species can produce whatโs known as aflatoxin. Aflatoxin does more than just potentially contaminate foodโit is also both a carcinogen as well as a toxin. Meanwhile, other species can cause allergic reactions, create mycotoxins, and even cause neonatal infections. For the diseases caused by Aspergillus, they are grouped together as Aspergillosis.
Aspergillosis can manifest in several forms, with their major forms being:
While there are quite a few ways for Aspergillus to affect you, it is not always a concern so long as you are healthy and practice proper methods of mold prevention. As the CDC describes, โMost people breathe in Aspergillus spores every day without getting sick. However, people with weakened immune systems or lung diseases are at a higher risk of developing health problems due to Aspergillus.โ
Also, it is important to note that the relationship between Aspergillus and humans is not always harmful. Throughout history, we have found ways to utilize various molds to our benefit with certain species of Aspergillus being a part of that list:
In Latin, Penicillium translates to โpainterโs brushโ, an apt description for how it looks under a microscope. When most people think of Penicillium, they usually think of the medical and culinary uses that we have discovered with several species. But not all species of Penicillium are beneficial. There are a number of them that thrive on fruits, grains, home-building materials, and even metal and glassโthese all have one thing in common: they cause damage to the things they grow on.
Penicillium that you may encounter indoors can be easy to recognize. Oftentimes, you will find them on spoiled food. For example, on spoiled bread, you may find a penicillium that looks like a bluish colored fuzz growing on the surface. What makes these kinds of penicillium dangerous to humans is the potential to produce highly toxic mycotoxins. If you should find any food items contaminated with penicillium growth, it is always recommended that you throw it away.
As mentioned before, several species of Penicillium are famously used for beneficial things such as:
While there are a lot of different kinds of black mold, it is Stachybotrys chartarum that most people refer to as the โtoxic moldโ. This is a common kind of black mold that likes to grow on materials such as wood, paper, fiberboard, gypsum board, and even cotton. Both its spores and fungal fragments may contain toxic mycotoxins.
This mold requires constant moisture to properly grow and spread. If you have an area that has a constant moisture problem, watch out for black mold growing on any damp surfaces that have a high cellulose content.
Like other molds, Stachybotrys chartarum can cause various allergic reactions to those who are sensitive to mold. For those sensitive enough, black mold can cause symptoms including:
These are just three of the common molds that you may encounter in your home. Every day youโre breathing mold spores from all different kinds of molds, but normally they wonโt cause any harm because your immune system takes care of any spores you may inhale. However, mycotoxins can be dangerous when ingested, and certain factors can cause someone to develop a mold allergy.
According to the CDC, โPeople with allergies may be more sensitive to molds. People with immune suppression or underlying lung disease are more susceptible to fungal infections.โ When these allergies develop or become agitated, it can make the presence of mold suddenly become bothersome at the least and dangerous at the worst. Those with weakened immune systems are also more susceptible to the detrimental effects of mold. The best solution is to simply limit the presence of mold in your home from the very start.
Letโs take a look next at the preventative measures that you can take to keep mold from growing and spreading inside your homeโฆ
One thing that all molds have in common is the need for moisture and the proper nutrients. Mold spores are everywhere around us. As the EPA describes, โMold spores are ubiquitous; they are found both indoors and outdoors. Mold spores cannot be eliminated from indoor environments.โ Mold spores are in the air we breathe each day, but between our immune system and the general dryness of our homes, its why mold isnโt growing everywhere and getting us sick all the time. But when moisture problems occur within the house, your indoor humidity can begin to riseโthis is when those mold spores begin to grow, breaking down and digesting anything that provides it with the proper nutrition. This causes the mold to spread.
But as stated earlier, even if mold spores land on a suitable surface, it canโt begin to grow without that much-needed moisture. Keeping the moisture levels in your home under control can prevent mold growth from starting. Letโs explore the ways that you can control moisture in your home!
During home construction, more land is excavated than needed for your basement or crawlspace. This is to make room for the workers to complete the construction job. Once your foundation is complete, that extra space is filled back up with the excavated soil. However, that excavated soil is much less compacted than the rest of the surrounding soil. Loose soil absorbs water easier. Whatโs more, that same soil will also begin to settle, eventually creating more of a dip that will lead to water running towards your home foundation whenever it rains.
With proper grading that slopes away from your home, you can help prevent that water from simply running to your foundationโinstead you can help guide that water away from your home as it falls. It is recommended that the ground around your foundation be sloped at 5%, or 6 inches for every 10 ft.
Rain gutters are useful, but only when theyโre clear of leaves and other debris. Make sure to regularly maintain your gutters and clean them in preparation for the next rain. The same goes for your downspouts. A clear downspout will properly guide water out and away from your home. However, some downspouts are not effective enough because they are too short, simply dispensing rainwater right on your foundation. In these cases, you should consider getting a downspout extension. With the proper grading and an extended downspout, youโll have an effective combination that will keep much rainwater from soaking down and sitting against your foundation.
Even still, this will only go so far. To ensure a complete defense against moisture invasion, you will want to considerย basement waterproofingย orย crawlspace encapsulationย as well.
Not even a homeโs concrete foundation can withstand the forces of nature forever. After enough time and rain, a concrete foundation can start to give in to the eroding forces of water and hydrostatic pressure created by that water as it presses against that foundation. Whenย foundation cracksย occur, they provide that hydrostatic pressure with a point of least resistance, causing water to seep its way through and eventually into your lower level. That invasive moisture can lead to increased humidity and even a flooded basement or crawlspaceโa perfect environment for mold to start growing.
Proper waterproofing measures within your lower level can greatly reduce the chance of mold taking root and growing in your home. A waterproofing solution may include these products:
Together these components can help form a comprehensive waterproofing solution that controls the groundwater surrounding your home and relieving your foundation of that hydrostatic pressure. Ultimately, this prevents groundwater from invading your lower level and giving any mold spores the moisture to grow.
Mold can be difficult to remove on your own. The right tools and techniques can help prevent the spread of fungal fragments and spores. Thatโs where a professional mold specialist can help solve your mold situation.
While itโs common for homeowners to try using a bleach solution to take care of mold, the bleach doesnโt always kill the mold or the mold spores. Bleach is only effective when used on a hard, non-porous surface such as a sink, a shower, or a toilet. But even then, it serves mostly as a temporary measure against mold for homeowners trying to take care of things themselves.
Unfortunately, home remedies are not as effective or thorough as the solutions that mold specialists may have. While hydrogen peroxide is commonly used by mold specialists, thereโs the concern of chemical burden. Thatโs why โ58 Foundations & Waterproofing is proud to be an exclusive DOT ambassador as it pursues better mold removal solutions for the good of homeowners and their homes.
โ58 Foundations & Waterproofing utilizes Carnegie Mellonโsย DOT technologyย to effectively remove mold with less chemical burden. Whatโs more, with DOT, our mold removal services can both get rid of mold while leaving your wooden surfaces looking like new. Our mold technicians are NORMI, MICRO, and IICRC certified. With โ58 on your side, you can breathe easy knowing that your home will be made mold free!
Give the moisture experts at โ58 Foundations & Waterproofing a call at (888) 698-1958 and theyโll have a mold expert provide you with aย free inspectionย and a zero-obligation price estimate!
Sources for Links:
CDC: Fungal Diseases, Aspergillosis
https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/aspergillosis/definition.html
CDC: Basic Facts About Mold and Dampness FAQ
https://www.cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm
EPA: Mold Course
https://www.epa.gov/mold/mold-course-chapter-1
PLOS Pathogens: Fungi and the Rise of Mammals
https://journals.plos.org/plospathogens/article?id=10.1371/journal.ppat.1002808
PLOS Pathogens: Updating the Fungal Infection-Mammalian Selection Hypothesis at the End of the Cretaceous Period
https://journals.plos.org/plospathogens/article?id=10.1371/journal.ppat.1008451
You may have an untapped source of income under your house. Did you know that your basement could be made into an apartment?
Yes indeed, when itโs finished, safe and comfortable, your basement could become an apartment that enables you to collect a steadyโand substantialโrental income.
But this income could vanish in an instant if your basement were to flood.
Though your foundation walls and floor are made of concrete, even the strongest building materials can give way to the powerful force water produces.
When it rains, water soaks into the soil around your home. Some of the water may come to rest against your foundation and begin to build as the water table rises. Once the water meets your foundation, the water creates whatโs known as hydrostatic pressure.
The pressure can cause groundwater to seep through the cold joints of your foundation and infiltrate your basement. Meanwhile, moisture may penetrate the foundationโs porous concrete, adding to the humidity in the basement. Hydrostatic pressure can lead to a variety of problems:
As you can imagine, these kinds of problems could leave a basement apartment swamped with water and moisture, and/or damage the homeโs structure. In both cases, the basement is unsuitable as an apartment.
A wet or damp basement can also lead to:
In addition to causing structural damage, the moldy environment can pollute your indoor air with allergens including mold spores and dust mite fecal particles. Individuals with mold allergies, respiratory illnesses, or a compromised immune system can become quite sick because of these allergens.
While thereโs no way to block out 100% of the water and moisture, your basement can be made livable with anย interior basement waterproofing systemย that directs water away from your home.
At a minimum, an interior waterproofing system involves:
Depending on the situation, there may be a need for additional components such as dehumidifiers, moisture vapor barriers, and rigid sealers.
An interior waterproofing system features drainage channels installed either on or beside the footer at the perimeter of your basementโs interior. The drainage channels capture water as it comes to meet your foundation and guides the groundwater towards a sump pit where a sump pump dispenses it through the discharge pipe to a safe distance from your home.
This whole process will reduce the hydrostatic pressure on your foundation. In turn, this lowers the chances of groundwater intrusion and invasive moisture.
After putting a robust, long-term waterproofing system in place, youโll be all set to create an apartment-style living space. Next steps include flooring, drywall, carpentry, and anything else you may need to set up a basement apartment.
โ58 Foundations & Waterproofing has been protecting basements against the effects of groundwater intrusion and moisture since 1958.
For your peace of mind, we offer an industry-leading life-of-the-structure warranty and a money-back guarantee to back our work. We take pride in the more than 2,000 positive online reviews weโve earned, and weโve even won theย Torch Award for Ethicsย from the Better Business Bureau.
โ58 Foundations & Waterproofing goes beyond just being a basement waterproofing contractorโweโre the waterproofing company that homeowners love. Contact us today to schedule a free inspection and to receive a zero-obligation cost estimate.
Rental incomes are sourced from the โWorld Population Reviewโ website.
Itโs something homeowners never want to see in their house. Along with being a dreadful sight, black mold can also be a health hazard to you and anyone else in your household. Mold spores can trigger reactions for those with mold allergies. Meanwhile, mold can even cause sickness in those with weakened immune systems. It is these potential dangers of black mold that make it critical to get rid of black mold in your basement whenever it shows up. More importantly is taking action to prevent it from growing in the first place.
Homes across the nation have problems with mold. Thatโs because mold can be found virtually everywhere. But where black mold really likes to grow is somewhere dark as well as dampโsuch as your basement. What ought to be a nice additional space for storage or an extra living space can be quickly turned into a danger zone if mold growth is left unchecked. It only takes a little bit of persistent moisture to give the mold spores in your house a chance to take root and grow.
Should you find black mold in your basement, there are ways to get rid of it and prevent it from coming back! Letโs take a dive into how black mold appears in your basement and how to get rid of these mold problems.
Mold is a natural part of our environmentโs process of breaking down organic matter. Where thereโs persistent moisture, mold will try to grow and spread, all the while breaking down the thing theyโre growing on. In nature, this typically happens on organic debris such as wood, all as part of the natural cycle of life. Where mold grows, there are mold spores, and there are all sorts of molds out there in the world. No matter where you go, chances are there are mold sporesโbut without that key moisture, mold canโt grow.
But mold doesnโt know the difference between a fallen tree trunk in the middle of the woods and the damp space of a basement. Whether thereโs water leaking in through a basement wall crack or droplets are condensing on the pipes in your basement somewhere, that moisture will encourage mold to begin the process of colonizing and growth.
The short answer is yes, there are kits out there that can be used to collect a mold sample and have it tested at a lab. But whatever kind of mold it may be, it should be removed as soon as possible to avoid both damage to your basement as well as to prevent potential health hazards from arising. No mold should be left alone to grow within your basement, or any other part of your home.
There are various molds that can appear in your basement, and a good number of them can appear as black mold, though they may come in different colors as well. Letโs take a look at the five most common typesโฆ
Also called toxic black mold. This mold is the main concern when black mold is ever brought up. Itโs also one of the most common molds to appear in basements and tends to grow very fast, so getting rid of it as fast as possible is a priority. Toxic black mold loves to grow on drywall, wallpaper, wood, and gypsum board. This black mold can cause a variety of symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, headaches, rashes, fatigue, and it can trigger allergic reactions and other asthma symptoms.
Another mold that can appear black in appearance, Alternaria also appears in a brown or olive color. This mold can potentially cause serious infections in individuals, though it is rare. All the same, it should be removed quickly as it is very fast growing.
Aspergillus has a more yellowish appearance, but earns a place on this list for how common it is. It is considered to be low risk but should be removed all the same. It can affect those with asthma. For those with weakened immune systems, it has been known to cause illnesses collectively known as Aspergillosis.
While typically brown, this mold can also have a gray or a black appearance. This is one of the more slow-growing types. Cladosporium can cause allergic reactions and agitate those with asthma.
Popularly known for being used in the creation of the antibiotic penicillin, Penicillium tends to appear white or green. As a mold in your basement, it can trigger allergic reactions and possibly infections, especially for those with compromised immune systems.
If youโre determined to try getting rid of the mold yourself, there are several steps youโll need to take to try controlling the presence of mold.
While trying to put a stop toย mold in your basement, it is important to wear protective gear such as a face mask, gloves, and disposable cleaning tools like sponges. If you have a dehumidifier, be sure to run it and remove as much moisture as possible from the basement. But if you donโt feel confident about trying to take on the mold yourself, call for a professional mold expert. They will have the knowledge and mold removal solutions to help ensure that the job gets done right.
Moisture is the key to what allows mold to grow. If you can prevent moisture problems and groundwater intrusion into your basement, you can helpย protect your basement from mold infestations. Here are some measures you can take to keep your basement dry and safe from moldโฆ
For over 64 years, โ58 Foundations & Waterproofing has been in the business of keeping basements and crawl spaces dry with effective and long-lasting solutions! Damp basements are the perfect place for black mold to grow. But with our wet basement repair expertise and our mold removal services, weโll clear your basement of that nasty black mold, and make your basement a safe and dry place once again. Weโre proud to be an exclusive DOT ambassador, utilizing a mold removal solution that offers great results with less chemical burden. Our mold solution not only removes mold, but it can even help revitalize the surfaces of affected wooden structures.
Give us a call today to schedule for aย free mold inspection and receive a detailed estimate. With our quality products and mold removal professionals, you can count on us to make your basement mold-free!
Water damage from flooding, leaks or even high humidity can not only compromise the structural integrity of your home but also create the perfect environment for mold to grow. Once moisture comes in contact with organic materials it can turn into a large mold infestation if not handled properly.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), mold typically takes 24 to 48 hours to grow after a flood if the right conditions are met. However, it depends on the type of mold, the surfaces it is in contact with, the amount of moisture, and the temperature. As stated previously, mold thrives indoors, in darker, humid spaces. This makes your basement or crawlspace ideal. If it contains paper, wood, leather, or fabric made from natural fibers and is 70 degrees or more it will support mold growth. In general, the longer that moisture is present, the greater the chance for mold to grow and spread.
When mold begins to grow, it uses the surface materials as a food source. It will eat the organic materials and damage the structure. Like any basement pest, the longer the mold is allowed to eat the surface it is on, the more damage it will cause. This is why it is imperative for mold to be treated immediately as it will cause wood rot, feeding off your wooden floor joist. Eventually compromising the structural integrity of your home.
Beyond the potential structural damage to your home, mold can cause health issues. Mold can induce coughing, wheezing, and irritation to the skin and eyes. Similar to the materials it grows on, prolonged exposure can cause more serious problems.
If youโd like a professional evaluation of your basement mold contactย โ58 Foundations & Waterproofingย for aย free mold remediation inspection.
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