Do you suspect mold presence in your basement? Seek professional mold remediation services to address the problem. While any part of your home can harbor mold, basements are most susceptible to the problem. Because they’re below ground level, basements are most vulnerable to water intrusions and flooding. A simple crack in the foundation can allow pooling rainwater to seep into your basement space, making it damp. Poor air ventilation only makes the situation worse, setting up an environment mold loves. Let’s take a look at what makes basement mold a serious household issue. It’s a Health Hazard Mold poses a serious health risk for you and your family. Children and those with compromised immune systems are particularly susceptible to mold. According to research, there's a strong correlation between mold exposure and upper respiratory tract symptoms, including wheezing and coughing, in even healthy adults. For individuals who are allergic to mold, mold exposure can result in heightened asthma conditions, shortness of breath, and fever. Other conditions associated with mold exposure include nasal congestion, skin irritation, and eye irritation. If you’re experiencing any of the conditions stated above but not quite sure if it's associated with mold presence at home, see whether the problem aggravates when you’re at home. If your symptoms exacerbate inside your home, mold is the culprit. Otherwise, it might just be a common cold. Also, basement mold can be just as dangerous as mold in the upper areas of your home. This is because mold spores travel through the air and can quickly rise to the main living space and pollute the indoor air quality. Anyone breathing in the air could soon be a victim of mold allergies. Structural Damage It’s true that mold can’t directly cause structural damage because it tends to grow on surfaces rather than deep into substrates. However, mold can create conditions that pave the way for the development of decay fungi. This can trigger the rotting process that can seriously undermine the structural integrity of your home. Quite alarmingly, basements and crawl spaces are more vulnerable to this problem. Remember, structural damage can significantly reduce the value of your property. On top of that, structural repairs may help solve the problem permanently. This is because, in most cases, repairs are undertaken without fixing the root cause. Thus, it's no wonder that the new framing rots out over time and will need to be replaced again. The only permanent solution is to eliminate the moist conditions before considering any repairs. This way, your structural components have an extended lifespan. Contact Your Local Mold Removal Company Now that you know how basement mold can wreak havoc at your property and put you and your family in danger, get your basement inspected for mold. The success of the mold remediation project will depend on the restoration company you choose. If you’re located in Chandler, AZ, STOP is the right restoration agency for you. For emergency mold removal, contact STOP today!