Mold and mildew growth in basements is one of the most prominent factors affecting air quality and personal health in the home. Once these organisms begin to grow, the circulation of air throughout the house can spread them to other areas, and they can eventually cause deterioration of building materials. Mold and mildew can grow anywhere in your home, however the basement is normally where most problems begin due to higher levels of moisture. Professional services are available for the removal of mold and mildew, but often they can cost quite a bit. Here are some steps you can take on your own to rid your basement of surface contaminates and stall existing growth that you can't access.
Thoroughly Scrub and Disinfect Basement Walls and Floor
While there isn't much you can do without professional assistance for mold and mildew growth within the walls or floor, any surface growth can be cleansed and removed. There is a wide variety of commercial products available for this task. Apply your solution to any visible areas of discoloration on the walls and floor, and any patches of visible overgrowth.
Using a flashlight, check the hard-to-reach areas meticulously, and move any furniture or equipment away from the walls to get a clear view of the entire basement surface. While you are cleaning, be sure to wear adequate protective clothing such as gloves and a face mask to filter out the harmful particles.
Be aware that surface mold on concrete basement walls or flooring can be an indication of a more serious problem that CANNOT be solved by treating the surface alone. Concrete walls can accumulate and hold hundreds and sometimes thousands of gallons of water, providing a prime source for humidity that will not go away, and creates perfect conditions for mold growth.
Reduce Sources of Moisture
Moisture is mold's best friend, and therefore your worst enemy. High humidity is the single greatest cause of mold and mildew formation in any basement, and you'll need to try your best to remove any sources of moisture in or around the basement. Any leaks or cracks should be promptly repaired to help block liquid water or water vapor from entering. If your house's downspouts are draining on the ground directly beside your basement walls, consider extending them away, or use piping to transport the drain water farther out into the lawn or garden.
Reduce Humidity
It is essential that conditions in the basement discourage any future growth of mold or mildew. Making use of a dehumidifier can help lower humidity levels in the air, making future re-growth much more difficult.
The best solution is, of course, preventing mold and mildew from initially growing in the first place. Be sure to remove any items that mold and mildew thrive on, such as perishable foods. The more these infestations have grown and spread, the more difficult it is to remove them. If you notice a small isolated growth, immediately take action to avoid a much bigger problem later. If left untreated, mold and mildew can literally destroy a structure if given enough time. Mold can spread almost anywhere - underneath carpeting, inside walls, and many other places, and more often than not, the basement is where growth first began.
In all cases involving extensive mold and mildew, professional removal services are always the best bet, as the average home owner is simply not equipped to deal with situations like these. The up-front cost can be steep, but if left alone the cost both to your property and your health can be much greater.
Article Source: By Debra Nance http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Debra_Nance
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