In high humidity and damp conditions, mold can begin to grow as quickly as within 48 hours – and its effects can be far-reaching. Not only is mold damaging to property, but it can also be hazardous to human health. Health symptoms associated with mold exposure include intensified allergies, headaches, respiratory problems, brain fog, and more.

It’s easy to note if your basement has a mold problem. From a visual standpoint, it’s hard to miss. It tends to have a powdery texture and appears as black spots on both porous and non-porous objects and materials. It also gives off a strong musty odor.

Other Common Symptoms

  • Mold or mildew growth
  • Dampness or wetness on walls or floors
  • High humidity readings

Root Causes of Musty, Smelly Odors in the Basement

  • High Humidity: Basements and crawl spaces tend to be damp areas of the home. If humidity levels are too high in these areas – let alone anywhere in the home – conditions can give way to moisture buildup and present ideal conditions for mold and mildew growth.
  • Foundation leaks: If there’s water in your basement or crawl space following any type of rainfall, it’s likely coming in through a crack or gap in the basement walls or floor. And wherever there’s moisture, there’s the risk of mold growth.

If you’re experiencing any of these concerns, schedule a free consultation to discover how you can eliminate these issues for good.

Permanent Solutions for

Musty, Smelly Odors in the Basement

To address the musty, smelly odors in your basement, there are several permanent solutions you can consider.

Basement Waterproofing

Eliminating moisture problems is key to eliminating subsequent mold growth. Exterior and interior waterproofing solutions, sump pumps, and more can all help keep water out of your basement.

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Dehumidification

If mold growth stems from excessive humidity, taking moisture out of the air with a dehumidifier is one fix. Dehumidifiers work by drawing warm air currents into the machine. As warm air contracts within the...

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Basement Mold Removal

Mold growth in the crawl space doesn’t just have the potential to spread and become an even bigger problem – it can also affect your family's health. It’s estimated that about 40 percent of the...

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Conclusion

What causes musty basement odors? It’s almost always a sign that mold or mildew growth is occurring somewhere in the lower level. And if it’s not properly removed and the moisture issues facilitating its growth are not solved, the problem will only likely worsen. Property damage and poor indoor air quality are two consequences of an emerging mold problem in the household.

If there’s mold growth in the basement or crawl space, the solution is two-fold. First, the mold will need to be removed. Then, the underlying condition that’s causing the mold to grow will need to be addressed. Moisture Loc can help with both. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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