If someone were to ask you to describe the smell of a basement in one word, what would it be? For many people, it would be musty or damp. Some might even use words like stale, earthy, rotten, or decaying.
Whatever word you use, there’s a good chance that you don’t associate the basement with a pleasant aroma. That’s because many basements have mold. A home remodeling contractor in Colorado Springs can show you how to prevent mold in basements, turning your lower rooms into dry, healthy, and usable spaces that no longer have a foul odor.
What You Can Do To Maintain a Mold-Free Basement
Basements are a magnet for moisture. Not only are the walls surrounded by soil, which naturally contains moisture that can seep through, but the basement also contains plumbing and HVAC systems that carry water. Basements also tend to stay cooler than the rest of the house, which contributes to condensation when warmer water enters the space.
All of these factors contribute to the perfect conditions for harmful mold growth. So, what are the basics of how to prevent mold in basements?
Use a Dehumidifier
Colorado may be on the dry side, but our basements can still be damp and moldy. A good dehumidifier keeps moisture levels below 50%, making it much harder for mold to grow.
Keep the Air Moving
When it comes to preventing mold in basement spaces, proper ventilation combined with dehumidifier use goes a long way. Poor airflow can make your basement feel stuffy.
Installing vents or running exhaust fans helps fresh air circulate and prevents dampness from settling in. Even leaving the door to your basement open occasionally can help air it out.
Maintain Your Plumbing
Even a minor leak in a pipe can spill hundreds of gallons of water, creating mold-supporting damp spots in the basement. Keep an eye on your plumbing to ensure leaks don’t become destructive problems.
Annual professional inspections help catch issues quickly. You should always watch for signs like higher-than-usual water bills, musty odors, and the sound of water running, all of which can indicate a leak.
Invest in Basement Waterproofing
Cracks in your foundation, gaps around windows, and poorly sealed joints can all let water sneak in during heavy rains or snowmelt. Foundation cracks are one of the biggest culprits behind basement mold. Even hairline fractures can let water seep into walls and floors.
Inspect your foundation at least twice a year and after major weather events. If you notice any water spots or musty smells, call a professional for water leakage prevention and repairs before the problem spreads. Professional basement waterproofing seals those entry points and creates moisture control barriers to keep water out for good.
Keep Mold Out for Good
Learning how to prevent mold in basement spaces helps protect your home’s structure and your family’s health. If you’ve noticed signs of moisture or want expert help sealing and protecting a finished basement, contact Rowe And MacPhail Renovations & Construction LLC at (719) 689-8323. We’ll help you create a dry, mold-free basement you’ll enjoy spending time in.
