Mold and Mildew in Basements

What is mold?
Mold, or mildew, is a type of fungus that can cause a stuffy nose, irritated eyes, wheezing or skin irritation in those sensitive to them. These annoying growths affect people with asthma, allergies and other breathing challenges. It’s easy to detect both mold and mildew. The decomposition of organic material caused by the growth of mold creates a ‘musty’ smell. The only effective way to control mold is to control moisture. A dry basement is free of mold and mildew.

Effects of Mold
Excessive exposure to some types of mold can cause, or worsen, conditions such as asthma, hay fever, and or other allergies. Depending on the amount of exposure, more serious health effects such as fevers and breathing problems can occur.

Prevent Mold Growth
The only effective way to control mold is to control moisture. Mold resistant material is effective only when use in conjunction with proper moisture control.
What you can’t see….

Basements with any degree (typically 50% Realitive Humidity or higher) of humidity or water are responsible for an unpleasant odor that sometimes proves to be a health hazard for anyone with allergies or a sensitive respiratory system. Undetected moisture and water, perhaps behind a basement finished wall, can create an environment for mold and mildew to grow.

You don’t need a flood to have major problems in your basement.
Undetected leaks can create an environment for mold to grow. Moisture and water, perhaps behind a basement finished wall, can create an environment for mold and mildew to grow. The best and most cost effective strategy to managing the growth of mold and mildew is to prevent the intrusion of water.

Whatever the amount of use your basement gets, it should not be a place that makes you sick. Air quality problems exist in homes of any age and can be caused by flooding or a simple excess of moisture or water entering through the foundation.

Basement finishing is a fun idea that many of us today wish that we could do. Don't neglect your basement preparation step before you finish. Take care of your moisture, mold and air quality before you finish. Otherwise you'll be sitting in your mistake. The last thing that I'd ever want to see would be someone who was in love with their space having to watch it come down due to "jumping the gun" early on in the project.

www.homebasementfinishing.com for more information on preparation, finishing and other healthy pre-finishing ideas for your basement space.