Mold Removal / Remediation
Did you know, over 50% of the air you breath in your home, comes from your crawlspace or basement? There is no question about the dangers of mold in basement areas. Basements typically manifest all the conditions conducive to the growth of mold. Basements can be dark and damp, they may have occasional flooding and the ventilation can be poor.If you find mold growing in your basement, you should take action quickly to prevent continued growth and negative effects caused by the spores.
Multiplying mold spores can spread throughout the entire home. This will cause allergic reactions, asthmatic episodes, infections and other respiratory problems. Repeated exposure to mold can permanently injure the nasal passages, eyes, nose, throat and nervous system. Infants, children and the elderly are the most susceptible and are therefore, at the greatest risk for developing serious health problems.The most important thing in a wet or damp basement is to eliminate the source of the water by installing a basement waterproofing system.
Crawlspace Mold Problems
A crawlspace can be viewed as out of sight, out of mind. However, a wet or damp crawlspace is a breeding ground for mold. Mold develops within the first 24-48 hours of contact with water. Mold can reproduce rapidly unless steps are taken to dry your basement. If left to multiply, you will find mold growing on your walls and ceilings and will begin to notice a musty odor. Additionally, if you are tying to sell your home, it is a good idea to remedy any water problems before placing your home on the market. The buyers inspection will show water problems and this will only slow down the selling process. Most likely, the buyer will want this taken care of before the sale is closed.
Basement Mold Problems
The first thing to do is to eliminate the water in the basement. The next step is to remove all of the mold from the walls. In most cases, the sheetrock and studs will need to be removed. The final step is to treat the air in the basement environment. The basement is like a cave. In a subterranean environment (like a cave), dampness and humidity are rampant. Basement Technologies has several options that are available:
Treat the sub-slab/sub-floor area by eliminating water and moisture utilizing the Water Trek Aqua Route® sub-floor system and the Humid-Evac®. Experts state that by eliminating the dampness underneath, in conjunction with an efficient basement waterproofing system, you will eliminate 80% of the humidity and condensation that can lead to mold growth.
Dehumidification of the existing air in the basement is also an important element. Eliminating the dampness under the floor is important. However, as the other walls are still underground, dampness and humidity can still be a factor. Dehumidification is crucial and an Air Mop II installed with a condensate pump (pumping the water out to the exterior) is an important element in the treatment of the basement environment air – to keep it dry.
Air exchange is also a significant factor. In the “whole-house effect”, air normally travels upwards through the rafters and vents. Reversing this air flow can be an important element in changing the mechanics of a damp basement. The Bon Aire is an excellent tool to use here.
