For homeowners in Richmond, Virginia and surrounding areas, it is important to know the signs and causes of mold growth, as well as how to mold prevention tips. When heavy rains and floods come, your basement will be prone to water seepage which in many cases can cause mold to grow. Where moisture is present, mold wants to be. That is why it is vital to keep your home and basement safe, clean, and dry to prevent mold and all of the hazardous issues that come along with it. 
There are many ways that water and moisture can enter your home. Most commonly, it is because of poor drainage. If your gutters are clogged, or if you have short downspouts that don’t direct water away from your home, water can pool up around the base of your foundation and leak into your basement. This can especially occur if you have cracks in your foundation walls or if your pipes are leaky.
Another way that your basement can be wet is through high humidity situations. When water evaporates, perhaps from wet clothing that is hanging to dry, it creates a very humid atmosphere. From this humidity, condensation can grow on metal pipes, basement floors, and walls. Since your basement doesn’t see sunlight and isn’t ventilated as well as the rest of your house, the humidity won’t go away by itself. This creates a venue for mold to grow as well.
Mold Prevention In Your Basement
The best way to start mold prevention in your Richmond, Virginia home is to sufficiently waterproof your basement and keep moisture as far away as possible. Some ways you can do this are to invest in a proper drainage system, such as extended downspouts or new gutters. You can also hire a waterproofing company, like Reliable Waterproofing & Masonry, to install various exterior and interior waterproofing systems into your home. Another thing you can do is keep your basement clean and tidy, and invest in a dehumidifier to remove moisture that is in the air.
If your home has experienced water seepage or flooding, it is important to take action immediately to prevent mold from growing. One option is to hire a professional mold removal/prevention company or water damage specialist to clean and protect your home. If you want to do it yourself, it is vital that you clean everything out that has been damaged by flood water. If the damage is serious, items like carpet and dry wall may have to be completely removed and replaced. You should use detergent or another cleaning product to clean your possessions that have been damaged by flood water. Above all, get rid of standing or pooling water as soon as you can, as this can cause toxic black mold to grow.
When inspecting your house for mold growth, check the following areas where mold loves to grow:
- Wall Cavities
- Drywall
- Ceilings
- Floors
- Pipes
- Carpets
- Insulation
- Wall Paper
- Wood frames
- Furniture
- Storage Boxes
- Ducts and Vents
You will usually recognize mold through musty smells and damp spots throughout your home. If you have noticed any signs of mold, or seen visible mold and mildew in your home, you should get it removed as soon as possible. The growth of mold is very dangerous and can cause serious health issues to you and your family.
Don’t hesitate to call Reliable Waterproofing & Masonry today with any questions and concerns you have about mold growth in your basement and home. We are your professional waterproofing company in Richmond, Virginia, and surrounding areas!