How to Prevent Mold Growth in the Basement
It is not uncommon for mold to grow in a basement. Mold thrives in damp, humid environments. Basements often provide both of these ideal conditions for mold to grow. The key to preventing mold growth is eliminating water. It is important to prevent mold growth in a basement not only to preserve the surfaces and items in the basement, but also to prevent potential health problems associated with mold. By taking the proper precautions, you can keep your basement mold-free and protect the health of you and your family. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Humidity meter
- Dehumidifier
- Concrete patch
- Fan
- Exhaust fan
- Squeegee
- Insulation
Instructions
-
-
1
Control the humidity level in the basement. Use a digital humidity meter to check levels every three months. The humidity level needs to be 45 percent or lower to keep mold out. Install a dehumidifier to reduce humidity levels. Even if the humidity level is below 45 percent, a dehumidifier is still a good idea to keep the humidity levels constant and to reduce moisture in the air.
-
2
Check the basement for any water problems. Leaky pipes or plumbing, standing water and any other sources of moisture must be repaired to protect against mold growth. Dry out the area thoroughly once the problem is repaired.
-
-
3
Seal any cracks in walls or floors of the basement with a concrete patch. Be sure that the patch has a waterproofing compound in it to deter moisture from entering.
-
4
Eliminate clutter in the basement. Air circulation is necessary in controlling humidity. While many basements do not have windows that can be opened, the air will circulate much easier if there is not excess clutter interfering with it. Run a fan for a couple of hours a month to assist in circulating the air.
-
5
Avoid keeping papers, home furnishings and clothes in the basement for storage. Mold thrives on these types of materials, especially if humidity levels are high. If you cannot avoid storing these types of items in the basement, store them away from the outer walls, as this is where moisture generally enters the home. Keep these items stored on tables or shelves rather than on the floor. Do not store wood in the basement either.
-
6
Examine the outside of the home surrounding the basement. Be sure that the grade of the soil around the perimeter of the house drains away from the foundation. Gutters and down spouts should be directed away from the home as well.
-
7
Install and use an exhaust fan if there is a bathroom in the basement. This will prevent excess moisture from building up after showers or baths. Wipe the shower walls with a squeegee after use to send the water down the drain, rather than allowing it to penetrate the shower walls. Be sure that the vent to the dryer, if in the basement, is diverted to the outside of the home.
-
8
Wrap supply line pipes in the basement with insulated pipe foam to prevent condensation from the pipes. Ensure that the central air duct work is insulated as well. Any other cold water pipes that show dampness on the exterior should be insulated as well.
-
1
