Mold Caused by Flooded Basement
Basement problems are often linked to mold, with flooded basements being a common cause of it. It doesn’t always have to be a major flood, those are the ones that you tend to expect mold to appear, but a recurring small leak, during heavy rains can become a major issue just the same.
Smaller water issues can also lead to mold over time, as the basement never fully dries out from the small but frequent water intrusion, which can occur after a rainstorm. This can go unnoticed, as you are less likely to call in a basement specialist for these smaller problems, which can lead to significant issues down the line. When dealing with minor water ingress issues, always check for mold so that you can deal with things before they become a more serious problem.
What is Mold?
Mold is fungal growth, usually found growing in areas of continual dampness, with many species of mold which differ in color and appearance. Mold is transmitted by airborne spores, which adhere to a moist or damp surface and begin to grow, feeding off the cellulose found in a number of building materials such as plaster or stucco and wood and coatings. A single spore can produce an entire mold colony, and because these microscopic spores are everywhere, damp areas are quickly inhabited, which is why mold caused by a flooded basement appears very quickly within 24-48 hours.
Is Mold Dangerous?
The short answer is, it can be. While not dangerous in themselves, certain species of mold, such as Stachybotrys chartarum, also known as black mold, can produce toxins that in high doses may be harmful to humans and animals alike. There have been documented mold cases since the 1930s that show health problems of people living in properties infested with black mold, however, scientific studies have never been able to provide a completely foolproof link.
Having said that, all mold is a sign of water or dampness in your basement which is not only a potential health risk but can ruin your belongings. It should always be dealt with quickly and not left untreated, regardless of whether it is a species considered toxic or not. So if you see mold on your drywall, paneling or floor molding, but don’t see water on your floor remember mold needs moisture to thrive and multiply. More than likely there is an undetectable leak or source of moisture behind your wall coverings that need to be addressed.
How to Prevent Mold From Growing in Your Basement.
Mold caused by a flooded basement is probably the most common reason that you will find a mold problem in your own basement. That could be one major flood or just a series of ongoing water issues during heavy rains. If you think about how mold grows, dampness and moisture are key, so waterproofing the basement is the best way to prevent mold growth.
You can do several things here, but first, you need to identify where the water is coming from and have the issue resolved. 20,000 Leaks Under the Basement’s waterproofing specialists will properly evaluate your water intrusion issue and clearly explain the course of action to stop the leak and the source of moisture to keep the mold away.
We offer a range of repair solutions for foundation cracks and our knowledgeable team are expert troubleshooters and problem solvers, ensuring your peace of mind in every situation. We are here to help! Our team will ensure that your basement will be properly sealed and protected from leaks, moisture, and the growth of mold.
Don’t Ignore Moisture in your Basement
While no one ignores a major flood, it is important that you don’t ignore other causes of moisture or dampness in your basement.
It is the small issues, a frequent but minor water problem in one corner of the basement for instance, that leads to the dampness that mold thrives in. So, next time you catch yourself saying “it’s just a small leak” or “it only happens when it rains hard” remember, small or occasional intrusions can create the perfect environment for mold, and before you know it, you may have a major problem.
Mold Damage Caused from Basement Leak?
While a major flood in your basement requires a full-service restoration company such as Sphere Restoration Solutions to assess the damage and provide a mold-free solution for you a smaller leak can create mold problems too.
Mold caused by basement flooding should be addressed quickly, the same should apply with the occasional water leak you experience after heavy rains. Areas subject to leaks never really dry out, creating a perfect environment for mold to grow.
As basement waterproofing specialists we have a wide range of preventative options and solutions to prevent leaks and keep the moisture and mold away. Whether it’s indoor waterproofing using a drainage system with a drainage board and installing a waterproof membrane or an exterior waterproofing solution using bituthene waterproofing materials such as Blueskin WP200 from Henry Company.
Looking for a foundation wall and crack repair company to fix Mold Caused by Flooded Basement?
Are you interested in a foundation wall and crack repair in the Maryland or Virginia area? 20,000 Leaks Under the Basement has been a locally owned and operated business providing waterproofing solutions for over 25 years. Our team of waterproofing experts uses industry-standard products from local distributors.
We offer a variety of repair and installation services. Which include foundation crack repairs and interior basement waterproofing systems. Our experts also install stairwell and window well drains, egress windows, and sump pumps.
Get in touch today to schedule the repair or installation you need.