4 Tips for Preventing Mould in the Basement

While mould and mildew can grow anywhere in your home, it tends to be more common in the basement. Whether you use the basement as a storage area, separate bedroom, or a laundry room, it probably has quite a bit of moisture and humidity. This provides a breeding ground for mould. Here are some tips for preventing mould so you can keep your entire home healthy and protected.

Keep the Humidity Level Low

One of the biggest reasons basements get mould and mildew is due to humidity. Moist air may cause mildew to start forming. If you don't air the basement out often enough to dry out the air, this mildew eventually becomes mould. Not only is it smelly, but it can also affect your health and the health of your home. To keep the humidity level low, install a dehumidifier that can be used in the basement. This will allow you to control the humidity level at all times. It is also a good idea to air out the basement if you have windows.

Seal Cracks and Holes

Inspect the inside and outside of your basement thoroughly to look for any areas where moisture might be coming in. If there is a flood in your yard and a crack in the foundation, that water could seep into the basement, then cause mould to grow. Make sure you fill any cracks or holes with a caulking material. This will ensure that any water from outside doesn't get into the basement and lead to water damage and mould growth.

Get Leaks and Plumbing Issues Repaired

You might also be dealing with mould in the basement due to excess water from plumbing issues. It might seem like a minor leak in the sink faucet in your basement is no big deal, but eventually that water is going to affect the walls and flooring. This water can gradually soak into the flooring one drip at a time and then cause mould underneath the flooring, which will then need to be replaced. Call a plumber like Nu-Jet any time you have plumbing issues anywhere in your home, but especially if you notice them in the basement.

Waterproof the Basement

As a final step, it is a good idea to add some waterproofing to your basement. There are waterproofing products for the walls and the floors, which can help provide a protective layer. If there is a flood in the basement, the waterproofing paint gives you a little more time to dry out the basement before mould starts forming on the walls or flooring.