Is There Mold In My Basement?

There are a few signs that you can look for to determine if you have a mold problem in your home:

1. Visible Growth of Mold: Mold often appears as a black, brown, or greenish-colored growth on walls, ceilings, or other surfaces.
2. Musty Odor: Mold has a distinctive musty smell that may be noticeable in the affected areas. When walking into a room with a unique odor, it may indicate you have mold in your home. 
3. Water Damage: Mold often grows in areas exposed to water damage, such as after a flood or a leaky pipe. It only takes 24-48 hours for mold to grow in the right conditions. 
4. Health Symptoms: If you experience symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, or skin irritation after spending time in a particular room or area of your home, this may be a sign of mold. Contact a local doctor immediately.

Step-by-Step Process:

1.  Scrape walls to remove debris and paint
2.  HEPA vacuum and clean the work area
3.  Repair holes and cracks in the walls
4.  Treat the basement with two applications of a restorative solution to remove mold stains — scrub and wash walls for proper bonding
5.  Apply a third treatment with an anti-microbial solution, covering walls and ceilings
6.  Seal with two coats of masonry sealant to prevent future mold growth