Moldy Basements: Causes, Risks, and Solutions

If you are not in your basement or crawlspace on a regular basis, checking for mold periodically is a good idea. Most people will notice mold in the living areas of their home quickly. However, mold in basements often has longer to grow simply because it goes unnoticed in this rarely traffic part of your house.

Mold in the basement is not only unsightly, it can be a health hazard. As water evaporates into the air, it can carry mold spores with it through the basement and into your home. Due to the laws of thermodynamics, much of the air in your basement or crawl space eventually ends up in your living space as warm air rises and this warm air can carry mold spores into the air in your home.

Signs of Mold in Your Basement

One of the most common places for mold to grow is in the basement. Basements are often damp and dark, which creates the perfect environment for mold to thrive. There are a few different ways to tell if you have mold in your basement.

• First, you may notice a musty odor. This is caused by the mold releasing spores into the air.
• Second, you may see black or green spots on walls or floors. These spots are usually fuzzy or slimy and can spread rapidly.
• Finally, you may experience allergy-like symptoms, such as coughing, sneezing, and watery eyes when you are in the basement.

If you suspect that you have mold in your basement, it is important to have it removed as soon as possible. Mold can cause serious health problems, so it is best to err on the side of caution.

Is It Safe To Live In A House With Mold In The Basement?

All mold can present health hazards and is dangerous, especially to the very young, elderly, and those who are immunocompromised or have compromised respiratory systems. Living with mold in your basement for an extended period of time can put your family's health at risk and should be addressed sooner rather than later. If your basement has that “musty” smell, it’s typically a sign that mold and/or mildew are present. 

Even if you experience no health symptoms from mold in the basement, it’s important to remember that mold is a living organism that can begin to destroy the surface on which it lives. The good news is that with the proper treatment, mold can be removed and prevented from recurring. 

How Do You Get Rid of Mold In The Basement or Crawlspace?

Determining the cause of the mold is the first step. Since there can be a variety of factors that lead to mold, it’s best to get a free inspection from a foundation professional or mold remediation company.

If you recently had a flooded basement, removing all waterlogged items and setting up box fans to help dry out the area can help. If your mold is caused by high humidity, installing a dehumidifier can help mitigate mold. There are also solutions for crawl spaces such as vapor barriers and encapsulation that reduce/eliminate moisture beneath your home. For foundations that have cracks/leaks that are allowing water to enter the basement, a variety of solutions exist including interior drain tiles [link], and exterior drainage [link] systems among others. A professional can help you find the solution that will work best to protect your home.

If you are experiencing mold in your home, My Foundation Repairs can connect you with an expert to diagnose the mold [link to contact form] in your basement or crawl space and provide a long-term solution.