How to Prevent Mold in a Wet Basement

Each and every day all of us are exposed to molds. While, for the most part, low level (touching, seeing) these spores doesn't cause adverse effects, ingesting it through breathing can cause health problems such as allergic reactions, asthma and infection problems. As if that wasn't enough - it can also damage your home's structure. In your own home, the greatest danger area for mold growth is in your basement as it frequently meets the three criteria for bacterial growth: moisture, heat and nourishment (e.g. papers, woods, carpets).
It is easy to prevent mold in a wet basement if you take the time to follow the steps outlined below.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dehumidifier
• Time
• Face mask and rubber gloves
• Non-ammonia based soap or detergent
• Stiff bristled brush
• Bleach

1. Cleaning up an area where mold's growing can be dangerous for people with asthma, respiratory problems, etc. So, before setting out to prevent mold in a wet basement, ensure all involved in the cleanup are fit and well and are wearing face masks and rubber gloves to prevent ingesting any nasty spores.

2. Before mold-proofing your basement, it needs to have any sources of excess moisture in the air shut down. If necessary, call in a plumber to survey piping and fix any leaks. Look at any unnecessary condensation from the dryer and ensure dryer is vented outside. Mend any roof leaks.

3. To prevent mold in a wet basement ensure the level of moisture in your wet basement at a minimum by introducing a dehumidifier.

4. Eliminate the potential sources of nourishment for mold by removing any damp or wet carpets, wood and paper-based products.

5. Mold grows best on porous, organic surfaces, so consider installing laminate - easy clean - tiles. All surfaces should be non-porous, so if there's wood in your basement, ensure it has been varnished.

6. On a regular basis, clean all surfaces with soap, diluted with hot water. Scrub hard using a hard bristled brush. Rinse clean.

7. Vent the area well before regularly disinfecting your wet basement surfaces with a diluted mix of bleach and water.

[stone24]

on 6/16/2009 My friend has a mold problem in his basement, i'll pass along the tips!

[sonni57]

on 5/21/2009 I had mold in the basement before and I scrubbed with bleach and painted with Kilz and it died forever. Thanks for the prevention tips.