della
04-09-2006, 04:13 PM
Hi,
I brought a Dormer Cape style home 7 years ago that has a 1/2 finished basement with a full bath. I would like to finish the other side for an exercise room. Problem, no matter what I do (dehumidifier, oreck air purifiers, open windows) I can not get rid of the the odor on either side, which make the basement unsuable. The finished side has paneling and cast iron baseboard for heat, the unfinished side is concrete. I have notice white fuzz in several locations and fine line cracks, but no water on floor or apparent leaks. There is no sump pump. In discussing this matter, I was told that water is seeping in through the concrete wall causing mold. The recommendation was to have a basement specialist clean wall surface, treat it with chemicals for mold then waterproof it with a paint product purchased from Home Depot or Lowes. My question is will this work? l would like the concrete walls to be painted not plastered to detect further water seepage. Or should I install drywall to insulate the wall? and will the paneling have to be taken apart to treat underneath?
Thank your help, Della
I brought a Dormer Cape style home 7 years ago that has a 1/2 finished basement with a full bath. I would like to finish the other side for an exercise room. Problem, no matter what I do (dehumidifier, oreck air purifiers, open windows) I can not get rid of the the odor on either side, which make the basement unsuable. The finished side has paneling and cast iron baseboard for heat, the unfinished side is concrete. I have notice white fuzz in several locations and fine line cracks, but no water on floor or apparent leaks. There is no sump pump. In discussing this matter, I was told that water is seeping in through the concrete wall causing mold. The recommendation was to have a basement specialist clean wall surface, treat it with chemicals for mold then waterproof it with a paint product purchased from Home Depot or Lowes. My question is will this work? l would like the concrete walls to be painted not plastered to detect further water seepage. Or should I install drywall to insulate the wall? and will the paneling have to be taken apart to treat underneath?
Thank your help, Della