How to Check your Basement for Mold
Over the past three months, the ‘stay at home’ message has been blasted on our screens more than ever before. Our homes are no longer just the places we go back to at the end of the day. Now they are also our offices and our children’s schools. Amid the increasing spread of the COVID-19 respiratory disease, it is essential that we not only live in clean and dry spaces, but also breathe in clean, fresh air. One possible health hazard in our home that can cause damage to our respiratory system is mold. Some types of mold, like the black mold, are known to cause fatalities.
Mold growth can also damage your home’s structure by causing wood rot. As we try to stay safe, mold prevention should be a priority on our spring cleaning quarantine checklist. Basements, in particular, are ideal spaces for mold growth, especially if there are any leaks on your drainage system. Toledo Basement Repair professionals can come in handy if you find any signs of mold in your basement or home in general. Toledo Basement Repair is offering a free estimate on any waterproofing/mitigation needs. You can also get 10% off your next service. In this blog, we’ll guide you step by step on how to check your home for signs of mold growth and mold prevention.
Mold Inspection
Mold pretty much grows everywhere – provided the temperature is right, that is between 40 degrees F and 100 degrees F. Dampness and darkness further fasten the multiplication of the fungus leading to the creation of large colonies. Humid and dimly lit spaces can be perfect for the growth of mold and mildew, mainly because they do not need sunlight to grow. There are many types of mold. Mold is usually fuzzy in appearance with irregular dots of varying colors from green to yellow, black, grey, and even brown. It can also be slimy to touch. By doing a thorough visual inspection, one can quickly identify these microorganisms. Areas to inspect include: Organically finished surfaces, ceiling, floors, and areas with leak history.
Mold Remediation
After conducting a thorough inspection, mold remediation is the next crucial process. Experts at Toledo Basement Repair have a comprehensive system that can entirely remove mold using chemicals. It is, however, important to note that mold removal is just the first step of decontamination. After mold removal, the next stage of professional mold remediation is mold prevention.
Mold Growth Prevention
Moisture is the culprit when it comes to mold growth prevention. It is even more complicated as basements are not well ventilated and have the entire drainage system running through it. Mold easily recurs in 48 hours if leaks are not addressed. To completely seal off moisture, waterproofing is the solution. Here is how to go about it.
Check for leaks and cracks, mainly if you used a low-quality grading.
Seal off all cracks using a cement-based sealant.
Follow up with a sealing membrane.
Complete the process by installing clean-outs for future maintenance.
It is estimated that more than 60 percent of American basements are wet, meaning mold and mold growth is thriving in our homes. Breathing in the musty mold odor can be detrimental to your health. For mold removal and waterproofing services, contact Toledo Basement Repair for any repairs. A well-maintained basement will not only fetch your house a reasonable price, but is also good for your health.