Basement Mold & Mildew in Akron, OH
A sure sign you have a basement moisture problem is the presence of mold and mildew. These related fungi will grow anywhere there is air, warmth and moisture. Since your basement will necessarily have air and warmth, it’s important to keep the moisture out.
Check your basement frequently for signs of mold and mildew. Generally, it’s easy to spot. Look for fuzzy or powdery growth in colors from gray and yellow to green and black. But don’t assume it’s not there because you can’t see it. Mildew grows on surfaces, but mold penetrates surfaces and could be growing in places you cannot see.
If your basement or crawl space has a musty smell, there is mold and mildew present, whether you see it or not. It can grow within drywall, fabric and wallpaper, and the spores can be distributed throughout your home through your heating vents. Mold spores can cause health problems from headaches and allergy symptoms to serious breathing problems, especially for small children and the elderly.
Keeping your basement cool and dry with a dehumidifier helps, but since mold can grow in temperatures as cool as 40 degrees, and all year round, it’s important not to ignore that musty smell or that very small spot of mold you noticed in one corner.
If you see or smell mold or mildew in your basement, you likely have a moisture problem that needs to be addressed before it gets worse, and before you do any remodeling in your basement. While bleach and over-the-counter cleaners may remove visible mold and mildew, they do not address the moisture problem, which will allow the fungi to quickly reappear, even through paint.
The experts at Garrett’s Basement Waterproofing go beyond treating the symptoms. We inspect your basement for mold and mildew producing moisture and eliminate the cause of these dangerous fungi.
