Tips for Preventing Mold Growth in Your Basement

Moisture-prone areas in your home like the basement are ideal environments for mold growth. Being exposed to mold can cause negative health effects, especially to those with mold allergies.

In this post, your trusted local home improvement contractor, Handyman Connection® of Boise, discusses how you can remove mold from the basement.

Health Risks of Mold at Home 

Mold can get into your home through doorways, windows, vents and heating and air conditioning systems. It can also be transmitted indoors through your clothes, shoes, bags and pets.

It also spreads easily on paper materials, cardboard, ceiling tile, wood, dust, paints, carpet, upholstery, fabric and insulation.

A 2004 study by the Institute of Medicine (IOM) has proven the link between indoor mold exposure to upper respiratory tract symptoms and coughing among healthy people. It negatively affects people with asthma and hypersensitivity pneumonitis patients. According to the IOM, it may also cause respiratory illness in children.

How You Can Prevent Mold 

Mold appears like spots, can be in varied colors and smells musty. If you see signs of mold in your home, it’s important to remove it immediately as it poses health dangers to your family.

Do your best in keeping indoor humidity level no higher than 50% throughout the day. A dehumidifier or an air conditioner can help you with this. Keep in mind that humidity levels change from time to time. Your home should be kept clean and dry at all times.

Soaked carpets and upholstery should be removed. Avoid using carpets in the basement as it can hold a lot of moisture.

The key to preventing mold growth is addressing the moisture problem. Fix leaks in the roof, walls or plumbing. Soap and water, or a bleach solution can be used to remove mold from hard surfaces.

You can rely on Handyman Connection of Boise for quality home repair and maintenance services. We also do carpentry, remodeling and flooring installation. Call us at (208) 268-0088, or fill out our online form for an estimate.