Basement Moisture Leads to Mold

Spring thaw may be the furthest thing from your mind as you bundle up for yet another chilly New England day, but the warmer weather will be here soon enough. 

In the months ahead, rising temperatures will cause ice and snow to melt—and all that excess moisture in the ground may contribute to a common problem for Connecticut homeowners: mold growth in the basement. 

The reason?

Water follows the simplest path downward, and because the soil surrounding your home is likely to be warmer and easier to penetrate, that is where it will go. From a poorly sealed basement window to even the tiniest crack in your foundation, water can quickly find a way into the lowest part of your home and create ideal conditions for mold growth. 

Your best bet to prevent a basement mold problem is to make a plan now so you can be ready for the upcoming spring thaw. 

Why are basements a magnet for mold growth?

Basements are notorious for harboring mold and one of the most common places to find mold growth in the home. Because they are situated either partially or completely below ground level, basements tend to be dark, humid, and poorly ventilated—all of which are prime growing conditions for countless types of mold. 

But it isn’t just spring thaw homeowners need to worry about. 

Basements are also highly prone to water damage from storms and flooding, leaking pipes, and broken appliances, making them incredibly vulnerable to damage from mold. 

And while many people believe mold takes months or even longer to grow and become a problem, the reality is much more alarming. Under the right conditions, mold growth can happen quickly—typically within 24 to 48 hours. 

Mold can be harmful to your home and your health.

Not only can indoor mold cause damage to your belongings and threaten the structural integrity of your home, but exposure to mold growth may also be harmful to your health and the health of your family and pets. 

The most common symptoms of mold exposure in humans include allergic reactions such as coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. They may also experience respiratory problems, headaches, and fatigue. In pets, signs of a mold allergy may include skin and ear issues, trouble breathing, watery eyes, loss of appetite, and fatigue. 

Make a plan now and be ready for spring thaw.

While it is impossible to predict whether or not your basement will fall prey to excess moisture or heavy water damage in the coming months, there are things you can do now to safeguard your basement and be better prepared in case the unexpected happens. 

• Check your basement for weak spots. Do a preliminary check now for any cracks in the walls or flooring where water might seep in. If you have drywall in your basement, make sure there are no wet areas or water spots that could be a sign of a leak. 

• Make sure all windows are properly sealed. Outside, check the area around your basement window well to ensure it is free of debris. Then, do a thorough inspection of the window seals both inside and out. Clean the area around the window frame and apply caulk to any visible gaps. 

• Clean all gutters and downspouts. This will ensure leaves, dirt, and other organic matter do not build up and create a blockage. Blocked gutters prevent water from draining away from your home and increase the likelihood of water getting inside. 

• Clear away snow as quickly as possible. As soon as you can safely begin shoveling or snowblowing after a storm, do your best to clear the area around the foundation of your home. This will help prevent water damage in the basement. 

• Know who to call if water damage happens. Even with the best preparation, winter storms and the resulting spring thaw can wreak havoc on Connecticut homes. If your basement is affected by water damage, fast action is required to prevent the growth of harmful mold. Make sure you keep the number close by for a local professional like CT Mold Pros.

Even a little water in the basement can lead to mold. 

Before you try to fix the problem yourself or dry out the area with fans, call the team at CT Mold Pros for a free in-home consultation. We handle everything from pump-outs and water damage restoration to mold removal and remediation—and we know exactly what to look for to ensure your home is safe for you and your family. 

Call CT Mold Pros today at (203) 920-0265 for your no-cost estimate or fill out this short form with your message to schedule an appointment.