Why You Shouldn’t Ignore A Weird Smell In Your Basement
A weird, musty smell in your basement is a clear sign that something is wrong. This smell indicates there may be mold or mildew, which besides being unsightly can cause health problems for your family if left untreated. So, what causes basement mold growth, and what can you do to address it?
The Trouble with Moisture
Being below ground level, basements are especially prone to moisture problems. Excess water in the soil around your home can seep into the basement via small cracks in your walls. This can quickly lead to mold growth and even structural problems. Basements are also often poorly ventilated, which makes them environments where mold can flourish.
The Dangers of Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew can cause various health complications for your family, particularly if they have existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or allergies. Even for healthy family members, certain types of mold produce mycotoxins that may be toxic when inhaled over long periods. Mold growth on surfaces like walls and ceilings can also lead to lower air quality in your home.
Basement Waterproofing Solutions
The good news is that you can prevent or mitigate damp and mold issues with a basement waterproofing system. Effective basement waterproofing systems involve a combination of sealing cracks in your foundation walls, installing a French drain, and installing sump pumps so any water that enters the basement is pumped out quickly.
What is a French Drain?
A French drain is an underground drainage system that helps redirect water away from your home that might otherwise seep into your basement. It is commonly a trench filled with gravel or rocks, with drainage tubing to carry water away. French drains have been used for centuries to help keep basements dry and free of moisture. By diverting water from the foundation and away from your home, that moisture doesn’t accumulate in the basement causing damp and mold growth.
What is a Sump Pump?
A sump pump is a device that sits at the lowest point of your basement and helps keep it dry by pumping any excess water out. It detects water levels in the basement and automatically activates a motorized pump that sucks up the water and pumps it away from your home. Sump pumps are especially effective at preventing mold growth in basements, as they can rapidly remove any water before it causes significant damage.
How Dehumidifiers Can Help
Controlling humidity levels with a dehumidifier can also keep your basement smelling fresh. High humidity can create uncomfortable living conditions and promote the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria. Optimal humidity is between 40-50%, so running a dehumidifier can help keep the air in your home at an optimal level and halt the growth of mold.
So if there's a funky smell in your basement, take action now to identify and address the problem. With a combination of basement waterproofing systems, French drains, sump pumps, and dehumidifiers, you'll be able to keep your basement dry and smelling great.
At Over The Top Waterproofing, we deliver reliable basement waterproofing in Philadelphia, New Jersey, Delaware, and the Tri-state area. We are specialists in ALL areas of basement waterproofing and restoration, and as a family-owned and operated company with over 25 years of experience, you can rest assured that you’re in good hands. If you've already spotted mold growth, or you have bigger basement waterproofing issues, why not contact us today?