10 Ways to Prevent Basement Mold

Basement mold is a common problem in homes that have damp, dark basements. Mold is a fungus, which grows fast in moist, humid conditions. Once it establishes its presence in your basement, this problem is very difficult to get rid of. Mold causes several health problems such as asthma, infections, cough, rashes, congestion and allergies. The best way to prevent mold growth is to control humidity and moisture in your basement.

1. Monitor Humidity Levels

High humidity levels provide the perfect growing environment for mold. You must ensure that humidity levels within your home, especially the basement, are within acceptable levels. Use a hygrometer to measure the humidity level. A humidity percentage of 45 or more is high, and can be conducive to growth of mold.

2. Use a Dehumidifier

If you detect high moisture levels in the basement, invest in a good quality dehumidifier. This appliance is quite effective in keeping humidity levels under check.

3. Avoid Growing Plants Indoors

Plants grown in the basement provide a good diet for mold and mildew. Only grow plants in sunny, airy locations in your home. Avoid the basement for cultivation of any sorts.

4. Reduce Congestion in the Basement

Try to keep your basement free of clutter. Too many objects and storage items block the free flow of air, and reduce ventilation. Items such as clothes and books stored in the basement provide food on which mold and mildew thrive. If you do not have an option, store minimal quantities of such items, away from direct contact with the floor or walls.

5. Avoid Storing Wood in the Basement

Wood is another ideal habitat for mold to grow in. Never store wood in the basement. An open, airy location is the best choice for storing wood.

6. Ensure that Water is Directed Away From Your Home

The boundary around your home must be sloped in such a way that snow and rain are directed away from the house. If not, water and moisture will pool around the structure, and increase moisture and leakage problems. In such a situation, mold is almost inevitable.

7. Take Care of Spills and Leaks Immediately

If there are any leaks in the basement, sometimes because of heavy rain, take care of it immediately. Wipe the water from the area and dry it thoroughly. Use of a dehumidifier and heater will accelerate the drying process. Also investigate the requirement of further insulation for your walls.

8. Insulate Water Pipes in the Basement

Generally, cold water pipes in the basement show condensation of water on the exterior.  Insulating such pipes reduces the humidity levels in the basement.

9. Use an Exhaust Fan

Air out stale, humid air and allow the intake of fresh air with the use of an exhaust fan. Try to open doors and windows to the basement regularly.

10. Reduce Humidifying Factors

Avoid drying wet clothes in the basement. Make sure appliances such as dryers, stoves, heaters and air conditioners exhaust to the outside, or else the humidity can rise significantly. Avoid carpets and wood flooring in the basement.