Health

Step by Step Guide on How to Get Rid of Basement Mold

Gideon Anderson

Mold in the basement is a frequent problem as a result of frequent moisture problems and the shortage of ventilation and light. If the mold problem in your basement is acute, we strongly advise hiring professional mold removal services. However, if the situation is less severe and you opt to clean the mold yourself, follow these mold removal guidelines: 

Assess the Size of the Affected Surface

If the mold growth area covers less than 10 square feet, you may be able to remove the mold yourself. However, areas larger than 10 square feet usually need professional mold removal services. Be sure you hire a contractor with expertise in residential or business mold removal. You can find them here.

Wear Protective Gear

Prior to going into the basement to initiate the mold cleanup, wear protective gear: clothing that covers your whole body, dust filter mask or respirator, gloves, and goggles. Throughout the mold removal process, mold spores will probably be released into the atmosphere, and inhaling them is hazardous.

Fix the Moisture Problem

If you make the decision to remove mold in your cellar, detect and fix the moisture problem first. Mold often occurs from the basement after a flood, in which case you want to rapidly eliminate the water. Other times, moisture is due to condensation or may seep through walls, ceiling, or flooring due to leaking pipes or cracked surfaces. Find and correct the moisture source and then dry the wet surfaces.

Find the Mold

When the moisture problem is repaired, detect and remove the mold. It may grow on several unique surfaces, such as concrete walls, drywall, wall cavities, ceiling, flooring, insulation, furniture, and much more. If you are not sure if what you are looking at is mold, consider using a mold test kit that allows you to sample both surfaces and air for mold spores.

Seal off the Basement

When you’re ready to clean out the mold, seal off the cellar to prevent mold spores from spreading into the rest of your dwelling. Use plastic sheets and duct tape to cover openings such as doorways or vents. Additionally, moisten dry mold a little to prevent mold spores from being awakened into the air.

Start Cleaning

Scrub off the mold with detergent and water, or make use of a mold killing product. Porous materials, such as drywall or carpet, may have to be thrown away and replaced. Once you’ve completed the mold removal, allow surfaces and things to dry completely. Then, vacuum the space using a HEPA filtered vacuum cleaner.

Prevent Mold from Recurring

Consider waterproofing your basement or applying a sealant to walls or flooring after the mold removal is finished. To control the moisture levels in your cellar, use a dehumidifier. Vacuum and clean the basement once every week to help prevent basement mold. Prevent condensation by insulating exterior walls, windows, roofs, and pipes.

Mold can also develop in other regions of the house, especially in the restroom. Learn about bathroom mold removal and prevention here. Sometimes, mold can even grow in which you least expect. Find out where mold can unexpectedly grow in your house in this article. For skilled mold, fire, and water damage restoration services, contact your local PuroClean office or check them out here for more information.