Moisture and basement mold go hand in hand. High moisture levels lead to mold growth and other dangerous conditions, compromising your health and home. Learn the problem signs and how to protect your house against moisture with professional waterproofing measures on this page.
Mold is a naturally occurring fungus. However, when areas remain damp and untreated, it can cause musty odors, structural damage, and issues within your home. Dark, moist basements and crawl spaces are perfect for mold spore growth and spread.
Mold requires these three things to grow:
Mold releases spores in humid basements that can cause allergies, asthma, and other health issues. If your basement isn’t waterproofed and you miss the warning signs, your health might indicate a problem. Over time, mold exposure can lead to respiratory issues, itchy eyes and nose, eczema, asthma attacks, and neurological disorders. Those with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable. Frequent headaches may also be a sign that mold prevention methods are needed.
As mold spreads and grows, removing it becomes increasingly difficult and expensive. The more extensive the growth, the more costly the cleanup. The following signs indicate potential moisture issues that may lead to mold growth:
These warning signs may signal mold growth caused by excessive moisture. Contact a mold remediation specialist for an inspection and removal as necessary.
Effective mold prevention begins with identifying the cause. Look for signs and sources of moisture. Do you have condensation on concrete block basement walls? Is there efflorescence on walls left behind by leaks? Are there cracks on floors allowing moisture seepage? Here are a few other ways to prevent moisture and mold growth:
Contact a professional for a free inspection and repair estimate to solve water issues and prevent future basement mold issues.
Some suggest using bleach, vinegar, or baking soda to remove mold. But use caution. While cleaning some mold and mildew types from non-porous surfaces using these products may be possible, it doesn’t mean it is a safe or permanent solution. DIY mold removal products can actually cause mold growth in porous materials like plywood. Long-term mold remediation requires professional removal of the affected materials and an environmental inspection pass, as necessary.
Long-term moisture control prevents mold growth and structural home damage. Contact a waterproofing expert like JES Foundation Repair for a free inspection and tailored repair plan.
Does your basement feel humid or have you noticed excessive moisture, leaks, or mold? Contact JES Foundation Repair for a free inspection and no-obligation repair estimate. Our professionally tailored waterproofing solutions ensure your basement and home remain safe, healthy, and dry.
Learn more by contacting us today!
JES Foundation Repair offers a wide number of drainage systems that can be installed within your basement for efficient moisture and water control. Arguably, one of the most important drainage systems is sump pumps: basins that can intake large amounts of water found in and around your home and redirect this water elsewhere so that you do not experience leaks or floods. The SafeDri™ ProPlus 330 is the most basic model, and the SafeDri™ UltraPro Triple Sump Pump System has an additional pump for heavy-duty jobs. Homeowners also have the option of the SafeDri™ ProPlus with Battery Backup System, which includes a battery backup that kicks into gear in the event of a power failure.
If you notice that water is entering your basement from any doorway openings, the BasementGutter™ Grated Drain Pipe is the solution for you. It is installed directly into the floor at any entryway, therefore capturing any water that may enter your basement through it. The holes of the grate are also small enough to block larger pieces of debris from entering, and even then, the drain pipe is easy to clean. Another option is the BasementGutter™ Interior Drain System, which lines the perimeter of your basement and is both resistant to being clogged and non-invasive to your space.
JES Foundation Repair also offers a basement dehumidifier that can remove 4 times the amount of water from the air than the commercial brands. It is also highly efficient since it drains on its own and can be adjusted to remove as much or as little moisture as you deem necessary.
Some waterproofing solutions are temporary, whereas others can last longer if they’re more comprehensive. The type of waterproofing that involves interior drainage installed by a reliable basement waterproofing professional is a more permanent solution. Comparatively, sealant waterproofing lasts between one and two years, depending on the type of sealant you used.
Basement finishing has become more and more popular in recent years as homeowners seek to make the most of every square inch of space that their home has to offer. There are many regulatory requirements around what is needed to class a basement as a ‘habitable space’. For example, you will need an egress window of a certain size. However, waterproofing is not technically necessary to finish your basement fully.
However, it is a very good idea to waterproof your basement before you begin any finishing work. After all, nothing is certain to ruin your hard work and furnishings quite like dampness, flooding, and mold. The benefits of waterproofing your basement before finishing it are many, and the process itself should be very straightforward and cost-effective, unless there are serious underlying issues that must be addressed first.
Generally speaking, waterproofing your basement will start with clearing all obstructions and debris from the space. After this, insulation will be cut to size and installed alongside vapor barriers to prevent moisture from seeping through the bare concrete walls and into your home. Depending on the space you have, a professional may also suggest perimeter drains and a sump pump system to make sure that your finished basement stays safe and dry in even the worst weather. Waterproofing your basement before you finish it will not only protect your hard work, but will make your finished basement more comfortable to be in.
Groundworks Editorial Team
