Keeping mold from growing in your Fairfield County basement

3/11/2017 (Permalink)

Hidden behind the clutter, black mold was able to grow on the walls in the basement of this home.

The most common area in a home for mold to grow is in the basement. The combination of  high humidity levels, condensation, water seepage and floods as well as clutter in basements create the ideal conditions for mold growth. There are some actions you can take to prevent toxic mold from growing in your Bethel, CT basement.  

1. Keep humidity levels down: You can check humidity levels using a hydrometer. Most experts agree that levels under 60% humidity are safe against mold growth, with 30% being optimal. Check the levels seasonally, as humidity levels often rise in warmer weather. If your levels are above 60%, using a dehumidifier can help reduce moisture in the air. A 30 pint dehumidifier is sufficient for the average 1500 square foot basement here in Brookfield, CT. Having a floor drain works best however if your basement lacks one, consider a dehumidifier that is capable of draining the water vertically into a sink.  


2. Stop water from seeping in and flooding: Mold needs moisture to grow. Even a small water leak is enough to allow mold to grow. If you notice water puddling up against the exterior of your house, you can slope the land away from your home in order to redirect it. Make sure that your gutters are clear and downspouts directed away from the house. You can also have your Newtown basement sealed to keep water out.  


3. Organize and declutter: The basement is the place that many people store their unused items and we all know that it can fill up quickly.  Along with the lack of ventilation caused by an overcrowded environment, porous materials such as clothing, carpeting, books and cardboard boxes can dampen easily and be a perfect breeding ground for mold spores. Additionally, if the area is not visited often, mold growth can go unnoticed for too long. Discard items that are no longer needed and store others in plastic bins rather than cardboard boxes.  

A minor mold problem can quickly become a major infestation if left untreated. We can start the remediation process immediately after you contact us.  If you notice mold in your Sherman basement, call the SERVPRO of Newtown and Southern Litchfield County office at (203) 743-5362.