How to Get Rid of Mold in Your Basement in Richardson

7/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Richardson provides mold remediation services

Basements are not common in the Dallas area. This regional novelty adds to a property’s value as extra living or storage space. For this reason, a basement is a notable feature that’s worth preserving. 

One way a basement incurs damage is when water sneaks into the basement. A combination of dampness and darkness creates the ideal environment for mold. Mold is damaging to basements and creates a toxic environment.

When you don’t access the basement often it’s easy to forget to check on it. Have you recently seen black spots or smelled mildew down there? Do you know how to get rid of mold in a basement the right way?

At SERVPRO, we are your Richardson mold removal experts. We help Dallas area property owners keep their basements in great shape by getting rid of mold in basements. Please use this resource to protect your property from mold or call us anytime. We’re here 24/7.

Causes of Mold in Basement

Prevention starts with knowing what causes black mold in basements.  Basements construction quality ensures that it stays dry but sometimes moisture gets in. Combined with moisture, a dark place with little ventilation is where toxic mold growth starts.

Leaks in Basement Piping

Basements that use running water have pipes. Leaks happen with damage from wear and tear or the pipes freezing. Also, leaks or flooding happens when a water heater fails. 

Any place with excess water that doesn't have a chance to dry out is where mold can grow.

Flash Floods

A well-built basement can still succumb to flooding problems. When the home above floods, the water flows to the basement in the small spaces around the entry.

Water may also get into the basement through something called hydro-static pressure. This happens when rain soaks the surrounding soil to the point that pressure builds up. The trapped water forces itself through walls of the basement. Indications of this are water damage or mold on basement walls.

Sump Pump Failure

A sump pump is the backup plan for when excess water enters the basement. When it’s not maintained, it may stop draining as it should.

Poor Ventilation

Is there a lack of air circulation? Ventilation is a huge help in keeping the basement dry. This allows puddles and moisture to air out and evaporate.

From small leaks to major flood events, basement wetness is where toxic mold makes itself at home.

Tips on Basement Mold Prevention

A dry basement is a mold-resistant basement. Here are some tips on how to get rid of mold in the basement. 

Dehumidifiers - This makes up for a lack of ventilation and speeds up the drying process.

Fogging or chemical treatments - Foggers or treatments are designed especially for zapping mold.

Fix leaks - Look everywhere for water leaks or signs of water damage. Repairing these leaks solves a problem source.

Maintenance - Do routine maintenance on the HVAC, sump pump, and ventilation systems

Sealants or caulk - Block persistent water leak issues with the appropriate sealants.

Exterior waterproofing - This involves costly professional help. This entails excavation and drain installation. Otherwise, you might solve the issue by blocking or routing rainwater away from your home.

Mold loves dark and damp places, so be diligent to keep the basement dry.

Steps for Getting Rid of Mold in Basements

Know how to get rid of mold in a basement in 5 steps:

Step 1: Inspection

Identify and mark off all the mold-affected areas. Pay special attention to where water or moisture is likely to enter (plumbing, HVAC, water heater, extra bathroom, clothes washer, etc.)

Note: It’s important to know what kind of mold is present for proper handling. Stachybotrys (common black mold) is a prominent type that is toxic and has a bad smell. But there are several other kinds of mold that grow indoors: black mold and white mold. SERVPRO of Richardson can identify all areas of mold growth and confirm what type it is with testing.

Step 2: Put on PPE 

Don yourself in old clothes, long gloves, goggles (without ventilation holes), and an N-95 respirator. You’ll be getting up close and personal with the mold, so it’s important to protect yourself from toxins.

If you don’t have access to the right PPE or don’t feel comfortable using chemicals, SERVPRO of Richardson does it for you. We have the right PPE and professional-grade mold remediation products.

Step 3: Remove the Mold

Try these mold fighting solutions:

Bleach - One part bleach to 16 parts water (for hard surfaces).

Borax - One cup of Borax to one gallon of water (for porous and nonporous items).

Vinegar - No mixing needed, use undiluted.

Baking soda - One half cup of baking soda to one cup of water plus one tablespoon of liquid detergent.

Mixture - Combine one part non-ammonia, liquid dish detergent, 10 parts bleach, and 20 parts water (for porous surfaces).

If you want to use a spray bottle to apply your solution, first make sure to build temporary containment.  This involves attaching thick plastic around the mold so any spores that you will disturb when spraying the solution will stay within the already-affected areas.  If you cannot build containment, do not use a spray bottle.   =A better alternative to a spray bottle is to use a clean rag, sponge, or brush. Thoroughly apply the cleanser (including the edges and crevices). Rinse your cleaning tool often to avoid spreading mold. Let the application sit for 5-15 minutes.

Rinse the area with a clean and wet sponge or rag (replace dirty water with clean water as you go).

Do you still see mold? Repeat this process.

Step 4: Throw Out Mold-Infested Items May Be Necessary, but It’s Likely Your Moldy Items Can Be Saved

Many moldy items can be salvaged thanks the latest in clothing and textile sanitization technology.  SERVPRO of Richardson is one of the few Esporta Wash System Certified Operators in Dallas Fort Worth, and we have an over 85% salvage rate of mold-infested clothing and other textiles. 

We have been able to save many items with mold, including:

• Clothing
• Leather Items
• Linens and Sheets
• Blankets and Comforters
• Leather Goods
• Sports Equipment
• Stuffed Animals
• Drapes and Sheers

Let us know what items you need restored.  We’ll be able to tell you whether they can be restored or not. 

Unfortunately, some moldy items cannot be kept. This is usually true when the mold has been on the item for an extended period of time, which may cause holes in the textile.  If this is the case, use complete PPE, double bag the affected items and discard.

For valuables like furniture, it may be possible to salvage them with reupholstery. 

SERVPRO of Richardson may be able to recover precious fabric items ruined by mold. Ask us about Esporta (industrial decontamination machine).

Step 5: Dry Surfaces and Ensure Proper Ventilation

Cleaning makes it look and smell better, but drying completely and ventilation helps it stay that way. All the affected areas must be totally dry out to keep mold at bay. Absorbent towels, air conditioning, fans, and dehumidifiers all work to eliminate moisture.

Reach Out to SERVPRO Richardson for Professional Mold Remediation

You may not spend a lot of time in the basement, but it’s still a valuable part of the property. Don’t let it be overrun by damaging mold. We’re on call 24/7 for through basement mold removal.

Keep in mind that not all mold is harmful and it occurs naturally as part of our ecosystem. SERVPRO of Richardson mold remediation focuses on eliminating harmful mold (not all mold).

What We Do:

• Mold inspection
• Mold testing
• Removal of mold on carpet
• Removal of mold on clothes
• Removal of mold behind baseboards
• Removal of mold in HVAC
• Attic mold removal
• Commercial mold remediation
• Odor removal

For decades, SERVPRO of Richardson has thoroughly cleaned moldy basements. We make it "Like it never even happened."

You don’t need to get close to the mold. Our experienced North Dallas mold remediation professionals will handle it. Call us 24/7 at (972) 843-7879 or fill out our quick and easy contact form anytime!