Common Molds in Basements and What to Do About Them
Mold is a common hazard in basements. If not remediated, it can cause musty odors, property damage, and health issues for your household. However, mold isn’t one-size-fits-all. Identifying the basement mold type is key to effective mold remediation. With Dry Tech Waterproofing Solutions, learn more about the most common types of basement molds and how each can be combatted.
Key Takeaways
- Mold thrives in basements because they are damp, dry, and full of organic matter for nutrients.
- White mold has a light color and a powdery or fluffy appearance. DIY removal is possible for small growths, but widespread infestations should be handled by professionals.
- Black mold has a dark color, slimy texture, and pungent musty smell. It produces mycotoxins that cause severe, sometimes long-lasting, health effects. Never try to remove black mold yourself.
Why Does Mold Grow in Basements?
Mold is a category of fungi that grows in a fuzzy or slimy mass of filaments, called hyphae, and reproduces by releasing spores. It can grow anywhere it finds what it needs to survive, including:
- Oxygen: Like any other living thing, mold requires air to survive.
- Moisture: Mold needs water and is happiest in a damp environment.
- Food: Mold feeds upon organic materials, breaking them down as it grows.
- Darkness: UV light can kill mold spores, so mold spreads fastest in darkness.
Basements and crawl spaces are often damp and dark, making them a fertile environment for mold. In addition, basements host an abundance of wood, drywall, cardboard, and even dust for molds to feed upon. As a result, mold growth is a common problem for homeowners. Statistics show that at least 47% of residential homes have signs of mold infestation in their basements.
White Mold
White mold is one of the most common types of basement mold. It is not a single species; instead, white mold may refer to multiple common strains, including Cladosporium and Alternaria molds. These species prefer cool, damp environments and can grow on a wide variety of surfaces. For identification, look for the following traits:
- White or off-white color
- Powdery or fluffy appearance
- Dry, dusty texture
- Mild musty odor
While white mold does not share the same notoriety as black mold, it is also dangerous. Its spores cause respiratory irritation and allergies, and large growths can break down the building materials that make up your home.
Black Mold
Black mold is not the most common type of basement mold, but it is certainly the most infamous. Also known as Stachybotrys chartarum, this mold thrives in areas with constant moisture, such as near a persistent leak or where there has been heavy water damage due to previous flooding. It has several identifiable characteristics:
- Black or greenish-black color
- Dark patch-like growth patterns
- Slimy or wet texture
- Strong, musty odor
Black mold is uniquely dangerous due to the severity of symptoms it causes. Residents may experience skin irritation, rashes, respiratory issues, and sneezing. Long-term exposure may lead to lung disease, chronic fatigue, and immune system disorders. Black mold also produces toxins that trigger neurological effects like headaches, confusion or brain fog, depression, memory loss, and even seizures. For this reason, black mold removal should only ever be attempted by a professional.
Other Basement Mold Types
White and black molds are the most common types of basement mold, but they are not the only types out there. Basement mold comes in many shapes and colors, including:
- Green mold: Also called Aspergillus, this mold produces fuzzy, greenish growths. It is not toxic, but its spores can cause severe lung infections.
- Yellow mold: This is another type of Aspergillus It may be powdery or fuzzy in texture, and its color ranges from yellow to orange and even rust-red.
- Brown mold: This mold type appears as brown patches that may resemble stains. It may belong to several different families of mold.
Even non-toxic molds can cause serious health problems if not addressed. If your home is affected by mold infestation of any kind, then prompt remediation is essential to protect your home and household.
What to Do About Basement Mold
If you have small amounts of white, green, yellow, or black mold, then you may be able to remove it yourself. The following steps help to eliminate mold while preventing further spread:
- Wash and scrub mold patches with a water and bleach solution.
- Improve yard drainage around your house foundation.
- Repair foundation cracks or leaks that cause moisture problems.
- Clean up any water spills or minor flooding.
- Use a dehumidifier to reduce humidity levels.
- Use fans and open windows to promote air circulation.
- Implement basement waterproofing
Widespread mold growth requires professional removal. Mold is good at hiding, and if you leave only a small patch behind, then the infestation will return. Never attempt DIY removal of black mold. Because of the health hazard that it presents, black mold removal should always be left to the professionals.
Learn More About Basement Mold Removal with Dry Tech Waterproofing Solutions
All basement mold types are potentially dangerous. If you have noticed signs of mold in your basement, then reach out to Dry Tech Waterproofing Solutions. We perform inspections and remediation for homeowners across our service areas of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. Our team handles projects with care to ensure long-lasting results and protect your household’s health. Contact us today to learn more.