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Major Causes of a Moldy Basement in Bridgeport CT

Moldy Basement in Bridgeport CT

Musty smells, dark stains and black mushroom heads are just a few signs that you’re dealing with a moldy basement. Don’t panic and move out just yet. Mold can be dealt with easily. You simply need to get in touch with a professional mold remediation company. This will ensure that you get rid of the mold down to the spores and parts that are not visible.

While you’re on the phone with the contractor, you may be wondering how the problem started in the first place. Knowing what caused the moldy basement will help you prevent it from recurring in the future.

Common causes

  • Flooding of the basement

Flooding of the basement can occur for a number of reasons including foundation leaks or natural storms. It is important to have your basement cleaned and dried thoroughly. Proper cleaning and drying after a flood ensure that there is no chance of mold growing. However, if this is not done properly, then wet nooks and crannies in the basement will become breeding grounds for mold and mildew.

  • Basement leaks

You don’t have to have experienced anything as extreme as a flood in the basement to end up with a moldy basement. Basements can become moldy even when there are leaks that are letting water into the space. Plumbing leaks are a major cause of mold in basements. These leaks must be dealt with to ensure that the mold does not grow again after remediation.

  • Condensation in basements

High humidity levels in basements create the perfect atmosphere in which mold and mildew can thrive. Basements with humidity levels higher than 60% offer perfect conditions. High humidity can result from condensation from hot water pipes, cooking in the kitchen or even HVAC systems that have pipes running through the basement. It is important to ensure that these pipes are insulated to prevent condensation forming in the basement. Vents to the outside of the home should be provided as well as cooking hoods to guide steam and condensation out.

  • Moldy belongings

The mold in question may also have come from a source outside the home. If you stow away items that were previously moldy in the basement, you’re only providing the mold with the right atmosphere to continue growing.  A little spot of mold can turn into a full blown house infestation within a few weeks.

Contact a professional to deal with the mold and ensure your home is safe.