What Does Mold Look Like In A basement?

It may be difficult to tell what a mold looks like in a basement if you have never seen one before. Molds often grow in places with ample moisture. The basement area is often moist and less ventilated, these are common reasons why mold grows in this area.

So what does a mold look like in a basement? Molds on walls or floors of the basement are patches or streaks that appear unclean, rusty or decayed, stale, and damp. They also look like slimy or fuzzy patches ranging from white, green, or black color with orange spots.

What is mold?

Ever walked into your basement only to be greeted by some displeasing grey patches on some part of the walls? Of course, you would wonder how they got there since they weren’t there a day before, or maybe they were, and you just took notice.

So what exactly is this unwanted slimy, fuzzy patch? Well, molds!

Mold is a living organism, and they make up a part of the kingdom of fungi. They are microbes or fungi that grow in the form of hyphae. The growth of these hyphae results in a stained, hairy, or misty appearance.

Also, Mold feeds on organic matter, which explains its presence on surfaces like woods and drywalls.

These microorganisms can be found outdoors and indoors. Although, they are usually not a problem, when left unchecked, can result in the following:

Damage to buildings.
Stained walls.
Rotten woods
Triggered attacks in allergic individuals.

How does mold get into a basement?

Moisture is the primary factor that causes molds in basement areas. Other reasons include

Leaks and cracks in foundations.
Precipitation.
Leaks in walls, roofs, and pipes.
Poor ventilation.
Wet clothing in basements.

Typically, mold spores are always in the air, however, once they find a beneficial environment, they begin to reproduce.

Note: Just because visible mold is in your basement, doesn’t mean upstairs isn’t affected. Be sure to get mold testing done throughout your house.

Easy ways to identify a mole in a basement

Trying to locate a mold in a finished basement can be tasking because molds can hide behind finished surfaces and even drywalls. Here are tips to help you out.

Earthy smell

The first culprit to identifying a mole in the basement is its smell. Mold produces compounds known as microbial volatile organic compounds. These compounds usually have an unpleasant smell and are often tied to the musty odor of molds. So, if any area has a musty or earthy smell, that’s a sign that there may be some molds present there.

Colour

Molds appear as fuzzy patches with yellow tints. Discoloration on your walls may also be indicating a mole problem.

Use a bleach

To test for molds in your basement, dab some drops of beach on the dark or misty area. If the area lightens after a few minutes, that’s a clear indicator that you have mold. However, if the area remains dark, then it’s just dirt.

Moreover, look out for areas that may have been exposed to a lot of water.

How to get rid of mold in a basement

Not only is a mold in your basement a horrible sight but the smell caused by the spores can quickly fill the whole house. The presence of molds could also lead to sneezing, and skin rash in individuals who are allergic.

Here are some tips to get rid of molds in your basement.

Stop the source of the moisture

Moisture In Basement is a common issue homeowners face, but it’s crucial to tackle it at its source. By addressing the underlying causes of moisture infiltration, such as cracks in the foundation or inadequate drainage systems, you can effectively stop the cycle of dampness and mold growth in your basement.

Although there are numerous ways to get rid of mold in the basement, the first step is to fix the problem. This could be stopping the source of the moisture in your basement, fixing any leaking walls in the basement, or ensuring that your basement is properly ventilated. Also, when using the basement, ensure you turn on the vent fan. In case you do not have one, simply have them installed.

Molds only thrive in moist areas, thus, drying wet areas can prevent them. If your basement gets wet, dry them as soon as you can. To prevent your basement from getting wet in the first place, use a professional basement waterproofing company. Birmingham Basement Waterproofing in Alabama is a family owned business serving the area since 2017, they suggest inspecting gutters annually, and removing foundation plantings that need watering.

Replace affected areas

If the mold has damaged some part of your walls, you should consider removing and replacing the affected parts. This step is considered the most effective means of getting rid of molds.

Increase the light in the area

Increasing the light in the affected areas can prevent the growth of molds. Simply use 100-watt bulbs in a large area and 40-60 watts for small areas.

Once you have this, always turn on the light.

Vinegar

White vinegar can be used to get rid of molds. Pour the vinegar on the affected area and after 5 minutes, wipe off the area with a sponge.

Tea tree oil

acts as a fungicide and is effective in eliminating molds in the basement. Mix the tea tree oil in water, shake well and spray on the mold-infested areas. Finally, scrub until the mold disappears.

Hydrogen peroxide

If you are looking for a non-toxic solution to get rid of molds in your basement, hydrogen peroxide comes in handy. Add some water to the hydrogen peroxide and spray on the affected area. Leave for ten minutes before using a brush to scrub off the mold.

High-efficiency particle vacuum machine

HEPA vacuums are effective when you want to get rid of molds from your walls. Using this vacuum machine constantly also helps prevent the growth of molds in areas with high humidity.

Concrobium mold control

Concrobium is used to get rid of existing molds, eliminate musty smell in affected areas or simply prevent the re-growth of molds.

It is also a great alternative to other mold removal chemicals because it is non-toxic. This chemical can also be used on various surfaces like tiles, stones, plastics, and other surfaces.

Tips to prevent the growth of molds in your basement

These tips will prevent the growth of molds in your basement.

Filter the air in your basement with a negative air pressure machine: This filtering process is referred to as ducting and it filters all the mold spores that could lead to the growth of molds.

Install a humidity gauge: Also, install a dehumidifier to monitor the humidity levels. Make sure that the dampness stays below 60% always.

Use a mold inhibitor: Mix mold inhibitor in paint and paint or repaint your basement.

Clean your environment: Ensure your environment is always clean. For instance, check your gutter frequently to make sure it isn’t clogged.

FAQ

Is mold dangerous?

Yes. Molds produce irritants and allergens. Thus, inhaling them may cause reactions in individuals who are allergic. An individual who is allergic may exhibit any of these symptoms; sneezing, red eyes, skin rash, and symptoms of hay fever.

Will mold grow on concrete basement walls?

The availability of oxygen, food source, and water will help mold thrive. Also, molds grow on concrete walls and ceilings of poorly ventilated basements.

Other areas where you can find mold

Damp areas and surfaces that retain moisture are places where you can find molds. So, if you are mold-haunting, your basement shouldn’t be your only focus. Here are a few places you should also check:

Bathroom

Check the shower tubs, showerheads, and grout around the tiles.

Sink

Your sink drain has enough moisture and humidity. These conditions encourage the growth of molds. You can easily identify a mold in your sink by its musty smell. Even more, if the smell persists after you have thoroughly cleansed your sink, then you can be certain it’s infested.

Although it could be difficult to detect mold because they aren’t visible, in serious cases, you can easily detect them by their greenish-black color or fuzzy texture.

Window sills

Visible molds on window sills are referred to as black molds. These molds are caused by wetness inside or the outer edges of the windows.