Hot, humid weather can only mean one thing for your basement: mold. It hides behind walls, grows on exterior surfaces, and everywhere in between. The good news? There are a few preventative measures you can take to remove basement mold -- or prevent it from growing in the first place.

Basement mold, like mold in all other parts of your house, is caused by water infiltration. It can destroy items in your basement, exacerbate respiratory symptoms, and decrease the property value of your home. There are five easy ways to identify mold growth:

  • Visible Mold: Often, you’ll notice a black texture growing in damp areas.
  • Musty Smell: A musty, foul odor when you enter the basement is sign that mold growth might be underway.
  • Peeling Drywall: Since water infiltration is the root cause of mold, look for other signs of water damage. Things like peeling wallpaper or drywall are indicators of water damage.
  • Respiratory Symptoms: Since mold irritates the airways, struggling to breath in your basement can be a sign that mold has gone airborne. For people that have asthma, mold aggravates symptoms.
  • Flooded Basement: Mold is a common occurrence following any type of basement flood.

How to Remove Mold

Cases of severe toxic black mold growth will require professional care. Always consult a professional, even if only to identify the type of mold you have. Professionals are equipped with the proper tools, ventilation equipment, and protective gear to safely remove mold.

For nontoxic varieties of mold and less severe growth, there are many DIY solutions for the prevention and control of basement mold. First, remove any mold-covered surfaces (such as dry wall, insulation, carpet, or flooring). Treat the hard surface beneath with commercial products containing ammonia and bleach. Basement mold removal on tile or linoleum can also be performed with vinegar or a borax and water solution.

Always adhere to cleaning product instructions. It is advised that you wear protective eyewear, breathing masks, clothes, and long sleeve shirts and pants to prevent mold and cleaning products from harming your skin and respiratory system.

How to Prevent Mold

To stop mold, you need stop the root cause: excessive moisture. If your basement is frequently flooding or collecting water, talk to your local Benjamin Franklin plumber about sump pump options.

These electric pumps divert water from your basement to the outside. Whether your basement sits below the water table and is a frequent flood risk or if you just need help during rainstorms, a sump pump is your answer.

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing offers battery backup sump pumps that work to provide flooding even when the power goes out. So you can spend your summer worry-free—not removing mold. Contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing to discuss mold prevention equipment today.