Damp proofing, wet rot, woodworm and property refurbishment services in Dorset and Hampshire
Of all the places in your home, none are as vulnerable to mould as your basement. Its unique location makes it a breeding ground for damp, rot, and fungi of all kinds.
If allowed to thrive, mould can wreak havoc on your home and health. That’s why it’s crucial you take steps to prevent it from forming wherever possible.
Croft Preservation have been dealing with damp and mould problems for over 35 years. In this guide, we explain what causes mould to grow in basements, why it’s dangerous, and how to prevent it in the first place.
Mould is a type of fungus that grows in warm, moist environments. It feeds on dead organic material like wood, paper, and drywall, and can cause permanent structural damage to your property if left unchecked.
Because basements are underground, their exterior walls are in constant contact with the surrounding earth. Water retained in the earth can easily seep in through this contact, leading to damp and mould growth down the line.
Mould can produce allergens, irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins). Inhaling or touching mould spores has been linked to a number of health problems, including nasal congestion, eye irritation, coughing, sneezing, and skin rashes. More rarely, mould exposure can lead to more serious health problems, such as asthma attacks or infections in the immune system.
Reactions to mould are common and can be immediate or delayed. Children, older people, and those with respiratory problems are especially at risk.
Even if you rarely go into your basement, any mould in your house is a problem. Microscopic mould spores can latch onto your clothes and travel from your basement to other rooms, eventually infesting your entire house - not ideal!
The key to preventing mould is to control moisture levels and remove potential food sources. You can do this by cleaning and drying surfaces thoroughly, relocating organic materials (like cardboard boxes or clothing), and repairing leaks or other sources of moisture.
Unfortunately, mould is tenacious. It can grow deep within your walls, and may not be visible until it has penetrated through to the plasterwork. The most effective method to prevent this is to have your basement ‘tanked’. Tanking involves installing a damp proof course or waterproof membrane onto the walls and floor of your basement. This will repel water and keep your basement dry from the outside in.
There are a variety of methods for tanking a basement, including cementitious coatings, chemical injections, and sheet membranes. The ideal method depends on the specific properties of the basement.
Worried about mould in your basement? Whether you’ve spotted the telltale signs or just want to play it safe, having your basement tanked is the best way to prevent mould from forming on it.
A leading provider of mould treatment services, Croft Preservation have been servicing properties in Dorset and Hampshire since 1985. Aside from being able to effectively remove mould from your basement, our team is equipped with the tools and techniques to protect it from future recurrences with a high-performance damp proofing solution.
Get a quote online or call us on 01202 737739!
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