September is Mold Awareness Month

Don't be overwhelmed by the mold-- take control of the moisture!

Moisture control is cited by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Responsible Solutions to Mold Coalition as the major factor in mold removal and prevention. All Basement Systems, Inc. dealers work with moisture reduction and water proofing products everyday.

Did you know that mold can't grow without moisture? This means two things. If your basement or crawl space feels a bit damp you're bound to find some mold. Additionally, you can't significantly reduce the mold in your home by wiping the mold away but you can by eliminating its source-- and that's moisture!

So, what exactly does mold do and how can moisture be significantly reduced?

Mold's Effects on Your Home

Mold is a pesky fungal growth commonly found outdoors but can also be found in your home-- when in the presence of moisture. Moisture, organic material, and warm temperatures provide the perfect conditions for mold to thrive. Here are some things to consider if you're uncertain whether there's a mold problem in your home.

1.      Is your home, basement, or crawl space noticeably damp?

2.      Have you noticed a musty odor in your basement, crawl space, or upper levels of your home?

3.      Are there any discolorations on walls, ceilings, or floors?

4.      Is paint peeling?

5.      Is there condensation buildup on your Air Conditioner or other household products?

Mold loves moisture. In fact, it's necessary to mold's existence! So, if you can reduce the moisture you will certainly limit the mold in your home. Fix leaks, and wipe down shower walls. If it's wet, make it dry. Mold is likely not to grow if wet objects are dried within 24-48 hours. Is there anything more that you can do?

How You Can Try To Reduce Mold

In general, make a habit of checking for mold in all those seemingly unlikely places. Mold doesn't need light to grow, so if you can't see inside the nook or cranny, you just may be missing a prime mold location. When mold goes unchecked in any building, whether commercial or residential, the results can be damaging to the building structure and materials. So be aware!

·       Mold can't be completely eliminated, but can be effectively controlled by controlling moisture.

·       Mold can grow nearly everywhere. They feed on what they grow on, and love to eat organic materials such as wood, paper, and carpet.

·       Mold may not grow on damp surfaces if cleaned within 24-48 hours.

·       An estimated 50 percent of US schools have indoor air quality problems.

·       About 500,000 deaths a year contributed to mold.

Although you can try your best to manage or prevent the mold in your home, the best solution is to eliminate the causes.

The Best Mold Solution Is Prevention

Our product lines are designed to protect basements and crawl spaces from mold and water damage. With our products you will see a significant reduction in your home's mold growth and its effects. Our products will also help reduce those allergies, eliminate the musty smell, reduce mold, and increase the pure and dry air quality throughout your home!

Mold can be anywhere there is moisture-- be informed and don’t forget that the best solution is prevention!