One of the most unpleasant and unexpected surprises of homeownership is the appearance of mold in your home. Mold tends to grow in places that are dark, warm, and moist, making one’s basement the perfect place for a mold infestation to form. This is especially true if you live in a humid environment, have your washing machine in the basement, or have an old home that may have leaky pipes, as any of these things can increase the amount of moisture in your basement.
In perfect conditions, a mold infestation can begin to form in a span of 24 hours and can grow from there, so it is important to be on the lookout for this uninvited guest in your home and take the necessary steps to remove mold as soon as you notice it.
What to do if you find mold in your basement
If you have a mold sighting in your basement, your first move should be to call a mold testing or remediation specialist to perform a detailed assessment and give you options. Even if the amount of visible mold is small, there may often be more infestations beyond what is visible. An expert will be able to tell you whether an infestation can be dealt with easily, or whether it could require a more complicated clean up job.
If it turns out that the infestation is a minor one, you might be able to clean it up on your own. Make sure to cover your face and mouth to prevent inhaling any spores. It is best to moisten dry mold by spraying it with water first, which will prevent as many spores from escaping into the air. Finally, you can clean off mold with a recommended solution of bleach, ammonia, or vinegar. Again, consult a specialist for specific tips on what solution will work best for the mold in your house. Always be extremely careful and follow manufacturers’ directions when using chemicals, especially bleach.
Finally, you will want to get some recommendations on how to best prevent mold from occurring in the future. Your best bet here is to use a mold killing solution to clean surrounding surfaces, even those that did not have mold to begin with as they may contain pores that could grow at a later date. Try to keep your basement well ventilated by installing fans or using dehumidifiers. It is also recommended to vacuum your basement with a HEPA filtered vacuum cleaner both after your initial cleanup and periodically in order eliminate any spores that may be in the air.
Finding a Trustworthy Mold Remediation Specialist
If you have or suspect you have mold in your basement or elsewhere in your home, it is imperative that you find and contact an experienced specialist. Search online for reputable specialists near you, and make sure to read reviews before choosing the best option. An experienced professional will be able to assess the severity of your mold situation, propose the best method for eliminating mold, and also make suggestions for how to prevent other mold occurrences in the future.