Basements are often used as storage spaces. But more and more homeowners are now turning their basements into secondary living spaces that add square footage and value to their property. However, no matter how you are using your basement, mold prevention and cleanup is one thing you should never take for granted.

Mold accumulation in the basement can cause mild to moderate illness, particularly in young children, the elderly, and people who have compromised immune systems and breathing difficulties. When left untreated, mold gives off an earthy and unpleasant odor that will discourage you from stepping inside your basement ever again.

Tips for Basement Mold Removal

If you want to get rid of mold in your basement, first, don’t forget to wear a mask. There is always the possibility that you will inhale mold spores as you remove black or white mold. Another simple tip is to dampen the mold before you start to remove it. It reduces the chance that it will spread in the air and into other parts of your home. If you have carpet padding or wall paper on your basement walls, it is best to remove it completely.

Here are some useful tips to get rid of that pesky mold in your basement:

Bleach

Mix four parts of water with one part bleach. Use the mixture for scrubbing areas affected by mold. Allow the mixture to stay on the wall for a minimum of 15 minutes before you begin working. It’ll ensure that walls are properly disinfected. See to it that you clean the whole area well. If you use bleach mixture, make sure you are using rubber hand gloves. You should also take care that your skin doesn’t come in contact with the bleach.

Seal Cracks

Once you notice that mold reappears after the process of removal, you may seal the cracks on walls. For this purpose, there are some available waterproofing compounds. These are available in every hardware store. Usually, such compounds come with all instructions to use them. Therefore, you will not have a problem using this. You may waterproof walls so you don’t suffer from damp walls again.

Use Dehumidifier

If you always deal with mold in your basement, it’s a good idea to buy a dehumidifier. It’ll ensure that excess moisture will be taken care of and there will be no formation of mold.

Pay Importance to ventilation

Typically, basements have mold because they’re not ventilated well. It is essential that you ventilate the place properly. Even after you successfully removed mold, never forget the area’s ventilation. It will also help in getting rid of the musty smell. If there are carpets or furniture, clean it outside. Also pay attention to cracks in your foundation that are allowing in moisture.

If you have tried those tips above and you still get no results from DIY mold removal in your basement, it might the best time to seek for professional assistance. There could be a bigger problem that requires assistance from a basement repair contractor in Cleveland, OH.

There are also some products available for getting rid of mold. You may try such products before you ask for help from the experts.