The Creeping Dangers of Basement Mold

With the humid, wet climate we live in here in Milwaukee, foundation repair is extraordinarily important. If you have a leaking basement, or you suspect there are cracks forming, you need to take care of the issue immediately. Talk to us about foundation waterproofing at the first sign of trouble. Why exactly is it so important to take care of the issue right away? Recently we talked about the serious concerns your home could face if you neglect foundation repair. However, another danger you and your family are at risk of when you neglect basement waterproofing is the danger of mold and mildew growth.

While pretty much anyone would say they do not want mold or mildew growing in their home, some people do not realize how serious of an issue this actually can be. Mold and mildew growth puts you and your family at risk for both minor and serious health complications. Learn more about the creeping dangers of basement mold here.

How Will Mold Affect Me?

Beyond just making your home smell bad, what dangers do mold and mildew actually pose to you and your family? The following are all complications that can arise due to the inhalation of mold and mildew in the home:

  • Nasal stuffiness
  • Skin irritation
  • Throat dryness and roughness
  • Coughing and wheezing
  • Eye irritation
  • Serious lung infections
  • Asthma attacks
  • Headaches

Mold is not a problem you should assume will solve itself. Particularly if the cause of mold is a leak in your basement. In fact, one of the reasons we strongly advise having a professional assess your need for basement waterproofing is because many over the counter fixes, like waterproofing paint, will actually trap moisture and mold in your walls.

Mold can form anywhere moisture builds up. You can wind up with mold growing in walls, carpeting, flooring, windows, vents, HVAC systems, insulation, and more. The number one rule in preventing mold is preventing moisture build up. This is where foundation repairs and basement waterproofing play a huge role in protecting you and your family from the health risks of mold.

If you do have mold growing in your basement, take care of the situation as quickly as you can. First, contact our team to come diagnose the reason you have a leak in your basement and to find you a solution for the root of the cause. Next, find a way to rid your home of any existing mold. You can either hire a team who specializes in mold remediation, or you can clean your home yourself if the mold has not spread too far. You can remove mold from hard surfaces using a bleach solution. Mix one cup of laundry bleach with one gallon of water to use on hard surfaces. Keep in mind that some molds are far more dangerous than others, so wear protective gear when removing mold.

Solve the Actual Problem

Remember, just removing mold as it grows in your home is not the real solution to the problem. It is important to actually get to the root of the issue and handle the reason why you have so much moisture building in your basement. Talk to us today if you are in need of foundation repair or basement waterproofing in Milwaukee. We want to help keep you and your loved ones safe from the dangerous risks of mold growth.