Basement Mold Cleaning

Basement is that part of a building, which usually lacks proper ventilation. This condition leads to a humid and damp environment, which is perfect for the growth of mold on any of the surfaces, including the basement flooring, walls, insulation, carpet, etc. Apart from a damp atmosphere, leaky pipes or roofs, clogged gutters, etc. are all contributory factors for mold growth. Such mold can eventually release spores, fragments and cells to the indoor air and this polluted air can cause health problems like asthma and other respiratory diseases.

How Can You Detect Mold in Your Basement?

In case of mold growth, you may notice a musty smell in your basement, even if the place is completely clean. If the smell persists, even after cleaning the area with a vacuum cleaner, then you can be sure of the fact that your basement has mold growth. But the typical cases of mold growth are characterized by the appearance of black (black mold), white, or bluish spots, which may look fuzzy or raised. Such spots can appear on any surface, which can be organic or porous. The only reason being frequent exposure to moisture and dampness. Mold growth can be detected through smell or sight. You must check for mold growth, if you notice any peeling paint on the basement walls. Any leaking pipes or roofs can lead to mold growth, which can also affect the basement carpet, furniture and the ceiling.

Basement Mold Cleaning

Mold growth in the basement should not be neglected, as it is necessary to solve this problem at the earliest, to avoid health problems which can affect the inhabitants. So basement mold removal is very important, but make sure that you wear protective gear, including a face mask, while cleaning mold from your basement. Following are some tips regarding how to clean mold in basement and mold removal.

• Once you notice mold growth in your basement, the first and foremost thing to do is the removal of each and every item, which is kept in the basement. This includes furniture, carpets, metal or cardboard boxes, etc. If anything is badly affected by mold, it is better to discard it. Otherwise, clean it properly and allow it to remain in sunlight for a few days, before taking it to the basement. A carpet can be cleaned with a steamer or mold remover.
• Meanwhile, after removing everything from the basement, check for any leakage. If there is any water stain on the walls, it is proof of leakage. Find the source of the leakage and solve the problem. Fix the leaking pipes or the cracks in the walls, including the window seals. If there is mold growth on the wooden rafters, at the sites of exposed insulation, then it is better to remove that insulation and replace it with a new one after cleaning.
• The next step in basement mold cleaning is the application of basement mold remover on the walls and floors. A basement mold remover can be an industrial fungicide or a solution of soap and hot water. You can also use a solution of four parts water and one part bleach. Bleach can kill mold, but keep yourself safe by wearing protective wear while handling bleach. Scrub and clean the surfaces thoroughly.
• Once the cleaning is over, dry the basement with a dehumidifier. You can repaint the surfaces if you wish. Otherwise, you can refurnish the basement or reinstall the items which are mold-free.

Even though cleaning mold in basement is not a difficult task, it is tedious and you have to be cautious, as you are handling mold, bleach solution and other cleaning products. Basement mold cleaning is not enough to prevent mold growth. You have to use a basement dehumidifier frequently and check for leakages on a regular basis. You can also opt for basement waterproofing. Now that you know how to clean mold from basement, you can share these tips with your friends and neighbors.