When you discover that your basement is filled with unpleasant, musty, and dank odors you’ll understand why we often talk about prevention.  Mold and mildew propagates within 48 hours of water damage and moisture penetration, so preventing the damage in the first place is your best option. Good ventilation in your basement is vitally important, no matter the size of the space, and will help get rid of the smell mold and mildew leaves behind.

If your home is built on a brick foundation, or is brick built, you can insert air bricks into your basement. Air bricks are regular bricks with small holes which allow fresh air to circulate and keeps the area from becoming damp. If your home is timber constructed, you can use ventilation bricks, or check with your local hardware store for advice.

Another great option is to run a dampproofing course around the floor and lower foundations of your basement, preventing too much dampness from penetrating the space. Flood protection is always advised, to stop the water from staying inside once it makes its way there. One advantage to this process is that dampproofing is simple to apply, often able to be painted on like regular paint.

Keeping a regular temperature and humidity level in your basement will also help dry out any slight dampness. When a space is cold, it attracts dampness. If your basement is heated to at least sixty degrees all year long you have a better chance of stopping the spread of dampness.

By following these simple steps, you can eliminate that unpleasant odor from your basement, and prevent it from returning.