Mold is a type of fungus that grows in warm, moist areas like basements. It requires a biodegradable substance to grow, which may include drywall, cardboard or paper. Left untreated, mold can contribute to illnesses and allergies and damage the framing in your home. To prevent mold in the basement, install drywall properly, regulate the humidity and use safe storage materials and techniques.
Instructions
Preventing Mold in New Basements
1. Frame new walls using steel studs rather than wood. Steel is not susceptible to rot and mold.
2. Add insulation in your walls to help regulate temperature and reduce thermal transfer. Place fiberglass batts or rigid foam board between the studs and fasten it in place using nails or staples. Fill the entire wall cavity.
3. Choose moisture-resistant drywall or green board rather than traditional drywall. Moisture-resistant drywall has a specially designed paper coating that is resistant to mold and mildew. This product is slightly more expensive than drywall, but it will last much longer in a moisture-prone area.
4. Maintain a 1/4-inch gap between the bottom of the drywall and the floor. This will prevent floor-level moisture from wicking up the wall and causing or increasing mold growth. You can leave this gap as it is, or fill it with clear silicone caulk.
Preventing Mold in Existing Drywall
5. Check the humidity in your basement with a humidity testing tool. These tools can be found at local home improvement or hardware stores. If the humidity level is above 45 percent, use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture. Adding windows or ventilation can also help lower humidity.
6. Check for leaks or standing water in the basement. Repair leaky pipes and seal cracks in the walls that are allowing moisture to penetrate from outside.
7. Use a Sawzall to cut away the bottom 1/4 inch of drywall from the walls. Fill this gap with clear caulk to provide a barrier between the drywall and the floor.
8. Paint the walls with anti-fungal or anti-mildew paint. These paints are specially designed to keep moisture away from the drywall and minimize mold growth.
9. Use smart storage strategies. Keep cardboard boxes away from your walls--they tend to be mold magnets in a damp basement. Store your belongings in plastic storage containers or on shelves above the ground.
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