Basement mold is a problem faced by most homeowners. It is almost impossible to keep moisture away from basements. Cracks or joints of walls and floors can result in water leaking into basement. If this moisture is not dried away quickly, it can result in the growth of mold and mildew that can damage the basement structure as well as things stored in the basement. If there is an occurrence of a musty odor or any sign of mold, it is an indication of a mold problem in the basement.

Why molds occur?

Molds occur on moist substances and in areas that are always wet or have a tendency to retain water or moisture. Moisture that seeps in through concrete walls or floors can cause mold growth in walls, floors or even other things like carpets or materials that are stored in the basement. Mold growth can occur if the wet walls or floors are not dried within a day.

How to prevent molds?

Fixing moisture problems can prevent mold growth. Mold can occur on any wet organic surface. Walls and floors, which have the highest exposure to moisture, must be given a waterproofing coating. The solution lies in keeping things dry. Air cleaners and heaters can be used to solve the moisture problem. The drier a place is, the lesser the chance of moisture and thereby the least likelihood of mold growth. One way to prevent mold growth from recurring is to clean the surface after removing the mold, disinfect the spot and rinse and dry the area as quickly as possible.

How to remove molds?

Before removing molds from the surface of walls or floors, it is important to have the right gear and equipment. Gloves, eye protection, and clothing that can be washed immediately are recommended. Dampening the area will reduce the spread of airborne mold spores. Scrubbing the mold-ridden surface with a detergent can reduce molds, although scrubbing may not work on all surfaces. Certain materials like carpets are best discarded. After the mold is removed, the area must be disinfected and then thoroughly cleaned. The surface area must be then rapidly dried using fans, dehumidifiers or through natural ventilation.