The basement is one of the most common areas for mold to grow. Even worse, it often goes unidentified for long periods of time since you’re in your basement less than the rest of the home. Identifying mold early is the key to easy removal. If you’re battling mold in your basement, follow these steps to safely get rid of it!
Find the Mold
Before you can remove mold, you have to find it. Some of the most common areas in the basement for mold to grow include:
- Around windowsills
- Around the HVAC system
- Near plumbing lines
- The edge of your basement walls
Inspect the basement thoroughly and make a note of where you found mold to ensure you don’t miss a spot during the removal process. You can also enlist the help of a mold specialist to inspect your basement so you’ll know nothing is overlooked.
Cleaning the Area
Removing mold yourself can be done using a mixture that’s half white distilled vinegar and half baking soda. Use a toothbrush or other soft-bristled cleaning brush and gently clean the affected area. Don’t forget to thoroughly dry the area when you’re done cleaning. If the mold doesn’t seem to budge, stop and contact a professional. Certain types of mold require special mold removal processes that only a mold remediation specialist will know how to handle.
Remove Moldy Items
Inspect any items that were near the mold. If you discover mold spots on those items, discard them. Leaving them in your basement almost guarantees more mold will grow even after you’re done cleaning. Use this as an opportunity to go through the items in your basement and get rid of what you don’t need. The more clutter there is, the more places mold can hide!
Keep it Dry
Once the mold is gone, you should focus on preventing the mold in the future. Start by using a dehumidifier to pull excess moisture out of the air. Basement waterproofing and sealing will help limit excess moisture in the future too! Inspect your basement for signs of mold regularly. If mold is occurring around your basement windows, the windows may need to be replaced. Correcting the issue that caused the mold in the first place is a lot more cost-effective than continuing to pay for mold removal in the future!
Contact Bruno Guerriero Construction today to learn more about waterproofing your basement to prevent mold growth. The only way to permanently rid your basement of mold is to get rid of the source of moisture – that’s where we come in! Schedule a free consultation to learn more about the waterproofing process, pricing, and other ways you can keep your basement free of mold.
