Leaks around your home could lead to mold in your basement.
Have you ever wondered why basements seem like the most common place for mold to grow? Most basements are dark, temperate areas that have little airflow. They are often dusty and used as storage areas so it is no wonder mold is commonly found in basements. But what kind of events can lead to your basement mold problems? Read on to find out!
Excessive Moisture
In order for mold to grow, it needs several things: moisture, organic materials, oxygen, and ideal temperatures. Many basements tend to have excessive moisture problems due to condensation, leaks, and even foundation problems. Condensation is often caused by the appliances in your basement like your hot water heater, furnace, and clothes dryer warming up the air inside your home while the perimeter is still cool.
Leaks
Basements are often the site of leaks found the foundation and from the pipes. Even the best foundation can eventually leak from years of wear and tear. Foundation leaks are one of the most common causes of basement leaks. Foundation leaks can also be caused by hydrostatic pressure, which is typically caused by the soil’s water table rising higher than normal beneath the foundation. Your basement leaks could also be caused by old pipes or an older faucet or valve. Even windows in your basement could let water in.
Flash Floods
Flash floods occur when there is a high amount of water built up in the soil around your home’s foundation. As the rain falls, the water has nowhere to go and can end up in your home. As a result, leaks and flooding can enter your home, creating moisture, standing water, and potentially mold and mildew.
Appliance Malfunctions
Nearly all basements have some types of appliance in them including sump pumps. Sump pumps are used to keep water outside of your home and foundation and to prevent serious water damage. If your sump pump stops working, it can cause water to accumulate in your foundation, causing mold. Sump pumps can stop working due to power outage and if they are not regularly maintained. Another appliance that could fail in your home is the water heater. Your water heater is constantly being filled with hundreds of gallons of water so even if there is a small leak, your basement could be in big trouble.
We may think of basements as extra storage facilities in our very own homes, but they are constantly at risk of flooding from both the outside as well as the inside. Every time water enters our homes, the risk for mold doubles. For more information on preventing mold in your basement, call Environmental Consulting and Contracting Group!
Call Environmental Consulting and Contracting Group!
If you or a family member suspects the presence of black mold or any other type of mold in your home, contact the professionals at Environmental Consulting and Contracting Group. With more than 30 years in the mold remediation industry, we have the experience and tools to help you. Contact us at 410-258-3579 or 1-877-591-MOLD (6653).
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Tags: Information, Mold Growth