Unfortunately, smelling something musty and unpleasant in your basement is not uncommon. The smell’s root cause can vary widely, from being relatively harmless to indicative of a serious need for mitigation such as foundation repair.

Recognize Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew spores float in our environments, so when conditions in your basement are right, the spores take hold and grow. This results in a musty smell that can also trigger allergies, harm your home’s structure or cause serious health issues.

Find the Water

Mold and mildew can’t grow without water, so the key to successful mitigation is finding and eliminating the water source. Water in basements can come from environmental factors such as humidity, condensation and poor ventilation or maintenance issues such as leaking roofs or pipes. It can also result from behaviors such as leaving damp clothes in piles or more systemic issues such as compromised foundations.

Know When To Get Help

If the water source is easily mitigated, then a DIY approach makes sense. You can insulate pipes that cause condensation, for example, fix a leaky window or stop leaving wet clothes lingering in laundry baskets. However, if you see water seeping through your foundation or identify visible cracks in your basement walls, call a professional who specializes in basement and foundation repair and waterproofing.

Dehumidify and Clean the Mold

If you choose a DIY route, after eliminating the water source, get your humidity to under 60% using a dehumidifier. Then get rid of anything that may contain mold, such as damp boxes and papers or compromised furniture. Wash and dry clothing and other launderable materials on the hottest setting available. Finally, clean any visible mold or mildew spots from surfaces with a 4:1 water-to-bleach solution. Use baking soda or vinegar to get rid of any lingering smells.

What are those black spots on the wall? Is there a musty smell? Both of these are indicators that mold is growing in your place. This is problematic for several reasons and should be taken care of immediately. Long term exposure could permit rotting and microbial development. Homeowners, therefore, should take care to immediately begin cleanup, avoiding long-term structural issues and major financial costs.

1. Spores Exist Everywhere

Fungi exist as microscopic beings, living any place they desire. Light little beings, they transport by air and movement. For instance, the wind can move them from place to place, leaving them on tree logs or possibly grass. Someone then goes outside and steps in that area. They connect to the shorts or pants, now hitching a ride into the home. It’s as simple as that.

2. Water Is the Catalyst

Then why isn’t everything moldy? Well, the spores very presence doesn’t mean reproduction. On their own, they are fairly harmless. When they interact with water, though, they become of much greater concern. At that point, the fluid triggers breeding, allowing the organisms to feast on the local organic matter (like your walls). This occurs at a quick rate. The contamination can quickly spread within 24 to 48 hours.

3. Tear Out Infestation 

Common household cleaners cannot eliminate the problem. Spores penetrate deep into porous materials, making it hard to guarantee they become clean. In addition, the absorption can go into drywall and flooring. It’s best to think of this as Mold Remediation Reno, a full-scale removal process in which you gut anything polluted. Special teams of certified professionals can enter the premises, survey the surroundings and work to sanitize the space. They’ll extricate anything drenched and begin to dry out anything left that is wet. The focus is on starving out the microbes and taking them away. The reduction decreases the likelihood of it reoccurring.

4. Sanitize the HVAC System

Because the irritants move by air, the HVAC system should be cut off in the room, avoiding circulation to other sections. Negative air chambers can be set up during restoration efforts, preventing anything from leaving the zone. In addition, ensure that very little movement happens through entrances such as windows and doors. When remediation begins, the unit should not only be surfaced, by thoroughly scrubbed, removing anything that could be lingering.

In nature, mold serves its functional purpose, decomposing items to nourish the land. In the home, they feed off of your house; therefore, if you suspect that it is present, work swiftly to get it out.

There are few things in life cozier than snuggling up on a fluffy couch with a piping hot mug of cocoa in front of a warm fireplace. Many people think that this is something that can only happen in a movie and that it would be too costly or impossible in their home. However, making your home a winter cozy spot might not be as difficult as you might think. When you consider these easy tips, you can be on your way to having an inviting space that you can enjoy all winter long.

Install a Fireplace

Many homes have a fireplace that is simply not in use. Consider hiring a gas fireplace service Denver to set it up for you. Gas logs are easy to maintain, and you can have the warmth of a real fireplace without the mess. Be sure that you have the fireplace maintained yearly to keep it safe and functioning.

Have Blankets Readily Available

Fluffy blankets and pillows are a must-have for a cozy winter evening. You can have a basket of warm blankets beside your sofa for easy access. You can even try your hand at knitting or crocheting if you want to make personal and unique ones. You and your guests will love the warmth these homemade accessories provide.

Keep Winter-Scented Candles Around

Winter scents like evergreen and cinnamon will bring back memories of winters past. You can eliminate some of the day’s chill simply by lighting a fragrant candle that will feel nice and cozy. You can turn out the lights and just enjoy the light from the fireplace and candles. 

Getting your living room winter-ready does not have to be as difficult as you might think. When you follow these easy tips, you will have a magazine-worthy winter oasis in your own home.