Age old buildings have, of course, age old accumulations of dust, odors and dampness. In 1970, in an effort to reduce energy costs, builders began to erect "air-tight" buildings. This virtually eliminated the circulation of fresh outdoor air. Thus, now more than ever, airborne particles of dust and organisms such as fungi, yeast, bacteria, mold and mildew are trapped in our heating ducts, carpets, walls, and ceiling tiles. These can cause both economic and aesthetic problems such as spoilage, fouling, or offensive basement odors.

Eventually, these irritants end up on the visible and unseen surfaces in our homes, businesses, schools and hospitals. Small wonder that problems caused by poor indoor air quality plague society today. Mold removal is vitally important for the health of everyone.

Signs of Toxic Mold in Your Basement
While microbes are crucial for many environmental functions, microbes can create havoc and damage to building surfaces and potentially create health problems. Simple telltale signs of toxic mold presence may include rotting lumber, moldy bathroom tiles and shower curtains, and offensive odors in the basement and throughout the building. Some health reactions may be sore throats and aggravated allergies to serious repertory problems. In certain cases, the mold and bacteria are up to carcinogenic levels. Biofilms (the food source for mold and bacteria) are also responsible for diseases ranging from cystic fibrosis to Legionnaire's disease.

It is no wonder that basements are one of the worst places in the home or building for toxic mold infiltration and growth. A basement, more than most other rooms, tends to have factors that aid in black mold growth. The first problem is poor air circulation. Basements tend to have some of the worst airflow in the structure due to many factors. The second reason is lack of light. Most basements stay dark longer than any other room in a structure. This factor aids in mold growth as well. Third, basements tend to have the highest moisture content of all rooms in a building. The majority of a building's plumbing is housed in the basement. This, coupled with the fact that older buildings tend to allow water seepage, makes for a potent combination for mold growth in the basement.
 
Basement Mold and Mildew Removal
To correct this problem, a basement must be treated with mold and mildew remediation products. Circulation and basement water seepage are factors that can be controlled by sealing floor cracks and wall leaks, as well as basement waterproofing, while lack of natural light is one that is harder to change. Each building is different and will need a tailored solution. If you have home in Pennsylvania, Ohio or West Virginia, call Keystone Basement Systems & Structural Repair Inc. today for a free basement inspection so we can help you with mold removal from your basement in order to become healthy once again.