If you’re like most people, the one of the last things you want to deal with in your basement is mold – it’s a close second to flooding (and often follows it). But what else causes mold in a Michigan basement, and how can you prevent it? This guide explains.
What Causes Mold in a Michigan Basement?
Other than improper drying after flooding, there are several possible causes of mold in a basement – and they’re all linked to the moisture and dampness that comes from the walls and the floor.
A standard Michigan basement is generally a crawl space that’s been converted into a basement, or it’s an area with unfinished walls and flooring. Generally found in older homes (it was popular to convert crawlspaces into full basements in the 1920s and the next few decades), these basements don’t always have concrete slabs for floors.
Related: Is it hard to remove mold from a house?
In Michigan basements, the most common causes of mold include outside moisture sources, such as:
- Groundwater
- Flooding
- Rain
Mold can also pop up due to an indoor moisture source, depending on what goes on in your basement – such as laundry or a leaky pipe. It can also occur due to condensation, which results from cold temperatures and high humidity.
The bottom line is that mold loves humidity and basement temperatures. It thrives when it’s between 60 and 80 degrees F, and when it has plenty to feed on – like wet cellulose materials (paper), cardboard, ceiling tiles, wood, dust, fabric, drywall… you name it, and there’s a good chance that mold can survive (and do exceptionally well) on it.
Related: Signs of mold
How to Prevent Mold in a Michigan Basement
Running a dehumidifier helps quite a bit – and many are large enough to suck the water out of your entire basement. (Just remember to empty the collection receptacle from time to time; damp basements can fill them up quickly.)
From there:
- Never allow water to accumulate in your basement
- Add insulation wherever you can (including around pipes to help prevent condensation)
- Don’t store everything but the kitchen sink in your basement, especially if your belongings can be food sources for mold
- Maintain good air flow in your basement
- Don’t put carpet in your basement
- Don’t vent any appliances into the basement; vent them outside
- Don’t grow plants in your basement
Do You Need a Disaster Remediation Expert in Washtenaw County or Jackson County?
If your home has already been damaged, we can help. Check out our services and call 517-262-3770 for your free disaster remediation quote today. We offer:
