Get Rid of Mold Smells in a Basement

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Get Rid of Mold Smells in a Basement

This article is intended to give the home owners a few tips on getting rid of mold smells in a basement or crawl space. Basement mold is the most common place in the home for mold so tackling mold smells and odors in a basement yourself can save you thousands in costly remediation repairs. Doing it yourself (DIY) can also present a danger do to the possibility of toxic molds exposure, so it is always advisable to consult with an environmental company that specializes in air quality, mold smell and odor remediation. Certain types of mold and be extremely dangerous and toxic to humans and animals causing a wide range of flu like symptoms.

Mold spores that cause mold growths are virtually found everywhere on earth. They are part of our environment, digesting organic waste left behind by Mother Nature. Fallen tree leaves, dead shrubs and cellulose products such as wood, cardboard boxes and paper are all nutrient food sources required for mold and fungi growth. These cellulose type nutrients along with water are the only two ingredients required to form and grow mold, mildew and fungus. Researchers estimate there are over 300,000 different types of molds in the world today.

Regardless, if your home is old or new, basements are a breeding ground for molds, mold smells and odors. Basements can develop cracks allowing water and dampness in. The environment conditions found in basements is typically cool, dark with a high level of humidity and dampness. Musty odors and mold odors coming from a basement are unpleasant regardless of how clean the basement appears to be. If you are selling your home, prospective home buyers are certain to notice musty damp odors alarming the potential buyer of water and mold problems. This will most likely coast you the sale.

If moldy musty odors are noticed in certain times of the year, it is usually do to stagnant air. Spring and fall are problem prone times of the year when the furnace is off and weather conditions are not warm enough for the air conditioner. Air becomes stagnant and musty creation mold and odors.

Condensation is a concern and will cover water pipes during warm summer months. The water build up from the condensation will seep into nooks and cracks allowing mold and mildew to form. Dehumidifiers are a must for any basement or home with high humidity levels. Humidity levels should be at a desirable 40% to 60% on average. Invest in a hygrometer, referred to as a humidity sensor or relative humidity indicator. Ceiling fans should be installed where ever it is feasible. Air movement and circulation is critical in controlling the humidity and air quality in your home.

Window ceils will sweat and gather dampness becoming wet and dripping into the walls. These surfaces should be wiped down on a regular basis keeping the area dry and free of mold and mildew.

Testing for mold spores, mold and mildew should be completed on a regular basis if you suspect that mold growth may be occurring in your basement. Toxic mold test kits can be purchased at your local hardware stores. If you are uncertain, you should consult in a professional mold restoration company immediately. It is important that they are also proficient in testing and determining air quality. In the event you are find areas of your home that are heavily impacted by mold growth, act as quickly as possible initiating a professional remediation protocol immediately. Mold will start to appear within the first 48 hours of a major water leak. Get the home dried out as soon as possible. Getting rid of mold smells in a basement is easy if you follow the few basic tips in this article.

By: Bradley Skierkowski