Wet basements are the source of foul odors, damage to your foundation, and even possible health risks to occupants of a structure. This is because mold and mildew thrive in wet basements and cause many other problems. You may not actually see the mold, because sometimes it grows under carpeting or insulation. Water seeping into your basement can come from many different sources, including leaking irrigation, sprinkler pipes, and flooding due to heavy rain or snow. It also comes from plumbing fixtures or cracks in your foundation. Once you find the source of the leak, remove it quickly as possible. Attending to your wet basement quickly will limit the opportunity for mold and bacteria to grow. After removing the water, scrub the entire area with soap and water. Then, wash down the area with a commercial disinfectant or with bleach diluted with water. Dispose of any affected materials, including carpeting, wood, or other material you cannot dry out and thoroughly clean. To prevent any future issues, take the time to seal any cracks, holes, or openings you find. For small cracks use epoxy, and for larger issues use cement. You can add an extra layer of protection by applying waterproofing paint to your walls. If the mold becomes too much for you to handle, or you can’t seem to find it all, Mar-flex recommends DryPatrol, the experts at mold remediation.