Not every house has a basement, and even in houses that do have one, they are often only used as storage places or as a laundry area. As an area of the house that is usually located fully underground the basement is also likely to be dark and damp. And dark and damp is the perfect environment for mold to breed.

So, what makes basements the perfect place for mold to thrive?

Basements are by nature moist areas, due to condensation and sometimes cracks in the house’s foundations and leaks. The plumbing in your basement might be old and neglected after years of overlooked wear and tear. Flash floods can cause water to build up in the soil, pushing against the foundation of the house, resulting in water leaking into the basement.

Sump pump malfunctions are another cause of water in basements. You will find a sump pump in most basements, to collect the water that accumulates around the basement’s foundations and transfer it elsewhere. If the sump pump malfunctions for any reason (due to a power failure or even if it is not properly maintained) the water will leak into the basement. 

Water is also sometimes found in basements as the result of malfunctions in the water heater, which is found in the basements of many homes, or a washing machine, which are also kept in many basements.

Condensation also creates a buildup of moisture in basements. Condensation is caused by poor ventilation because most basements are closed spaces where the air doesn’t circulate.

Add to all of that the fact that basements in many homes are not visited regularly, meaning that if there is a leak it isn’t always caught early enough to prevent mold from developing and spreading.

How to Control Basement Mold

Now you know what causes wetness in basements it will be easier to keep your basement dry.

Don’t keep piles of old newspapers, books, wood, etc. in your basement for a long time, because mold grows on these materials.

It’s best not to put carpets down in your basement, this is another material that mold thrives on.

Keep your basement clean and the door, and windows if it has any, open as much as possible.

Inspect your basement regularly to make sure that there is no water damage and that everything is dry. Don’t forget that sometimes mold is hard to detect it can be inside the pipes or in the walls. If you smell a musky odor but don’t notice any mold, it is time to bring in the professionals who will thoroughly inspect your basement for you.

Mold Removal Oakland offers a range of services, including mold removal, mold testing, inspection, remediation and water damage services in Oakland. Give us a call if you would like a water damage expert to inspect your basement for mold.