Stop Mold From Setting Up Shop in Your Basement | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

2/17/2023 (Permalink)

When you find hidden mold call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

If you live in a house with a basement, it may not be your favorite location to visit. The stale air
and dim lighting are reasons enough to get in and out as quickly as possible. While visiting the
basement may be unsettling, it is vital to do so on a regular basis to check for threats like mold
growth.
Basement mold growth is a common issue that can lead to substantial damage. Darkness,
humidity and excess moisture make your basement an ideal breeding ground for mold. And
since you might not frequent your basement, mold might grow there without your knowledge.
Regular maintenance and inspections are the most effective ways to keep mold at bay in your
basement. The more you maintain it, the fewer scary trips you’ll have to make down to your
basement!
Eliminate Seepage
You should start by ensuring there are no areas of your basement water that might be able to
seep in. Inspect your foundation for cracks and gaps along the walls and seal them up. Cracks
aren’t always a cause for concern, but it’s important to keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t
expand.
Cracks aren’t the only issue that can create moisture problems. Your pipes and appliances can
both flood your basement before you know it. Inspect your pipes and the appliances you keep in
your basement after each usage to ensure there is no leakage.
Even if there is no water leak, the moisture levels in your basement may be high, allowing mold
to flourish. Using a humidifier in your basement can lower humidity and control moisture. The
humidity levels you need to set will vary depending on the season and climate, but 30 to 50% is
the ideal range.
Protect the Inside From Outside
Creating safeguards around the exterior of your property is another great technique to secure
your basement. Small tasks like cleaning your gutters, maintaining your roof and extending your
downspouts can help keep outside water from leaking in and growing mold.
The landscape that surrounds your home also has an impact on how much water seeps down
into your basement. Grading your yard is an effective way to send excess water flowing away
from your home’s foundation. Create a slope using dirt to allow water to flow away from your
home rather than pooling at the sides.
If you find mold lurking in your basement, we are the team to call! SERVPRO can perform
expert remediation and return you to a safe, mold-free property.