If you have mold, mildew and musty odors in your basement, you need to take action now!
What is Mold?
Mold is natural and exists almost everywhere
indoors or out. Mold thrives in damp and humid environments. Molds are fungi and
as they grow they release spores into the air, which when inhaled, can make
people sick. When molds metabolize, they release microbial volatile organic
compounds (MVOCs). MVOCs are gases which are basically the waste product
produced by mold as it grows, which can irritate the eyes, the respiratory
system, and cause very unpleasant odors in the basement and in the upper levels
of the home.
Mold spores may get into your home through open doorways,
windows, heating, and air conditioning systems with outdoor air intakes. Spores
in the air outside also attach themselves to clothing, shoes, bags, and pets.
Once a mold spore drops on places where there is excessive moisture, such as
many basements, they will grow. Wet cellulose materials, including paper and
paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, wood, and wood products encourage many
types of mold to grow. Other materials such as dust, paint, wallpaper,
insulation, drywall, carpet, fabric, and upholstery, easily support the growth
Why is exposure to mold a problem?
exposure can cause quite a variety of symptoms, especially allergic reactions
such as sneezing, congestion, runny nose, and itching watery eyes — even skin
irritations. Molds often trigger asthma attacks and can cause serious problems
for people with weakened immune systems, such as a variety of infections. Many
of the molds most typically found indoors are capable of producing mycotoxins
under the right conditions.
Mold gradually destroys the things it grows
Most common indoor molds
to get rid of mold
Mold growth can be slowed down by keeping
humidity levels below 55%. The use of dehumidifiers and air conditioners will
make a huge difference.
A number of commercial and natural products can
be used to remove mold from hard surfaces.
Use exhaust fans and proper
ventilation in the home and especially in the basement.
and kitchens with mold killing products.
Don’t use carpeting in bathrooms
and basements – ever.
What is the difference between mold and
Mold and mildew are both fungi and their spores are always
flying through the air. Basements often provide perfect growing conditions for
both as they thrive in humid, damp conditions. Mildew is commonly gray or white.
Mold is usually black, red, green, brown, or a combination of these
Musty basement odor
Mildew is famous for
causing that familiar musty basement odor. Getting rid of mold and mildew, along
with installing some type of basement ventilation system, will help stop
the odor but most important is getting rid of what is causing the mold and
mildew — the moisture in the basement. If your basement continually gets wet,
you likely need to have a French drain or pressure relief system
Contact us for a free home inspection and consultation by a
Vulcan Basement Waterproofing specialist.