A wet basement can be a huge hassle for any homeowner. Its often the source of foul odors, and the dampness and moisture that leaks in can damage your home and present a health risk to any occupants inside. Mold and bacteria thrive in wet basements, causing other issues, so this problem needs to be taken care of as soon as possible.

When you suspect that mold has grown in your basement, you have to find it. You might not actually see the mold, especially if it is growing under your carpet or behind your insulation. Even though you might not find the mold, you must quickly determine the source of the leak, whether its leaking irrigation, plumbing problems, or flooding due to heavy rain or snows.

As soon as you determine the source of the leak, remove it. Attending to this issue quickly will ensure that you limit mold and mildew’s ability to grow. If you find a small amount of water left after you fix the leak, you can wipe it up with a sponge or rag dipped in hot, soapy water. If there are larger amounts of water, you’ll need to use a pump. If the flooding has caused the leak, you’ll need to be extremely careful when being exposed, as this water could carry contaminations from garbage or sewage. Always use protective equipment, including latex gloves and a face mask.

After removing the initial water, scrub the area with soap and water. Wash down the area with a commercial disinfectant, or with bleach diluted with water. Always wear protective equipment when doing this. Dispose of any damp carpeting, wood, or other materials you can’t dry out and thoroughly clean.

To prevent issues in the future, take time to seal any cracks, holes, or openings in your basement. For small problems, use epoxy glue, and for larger ones, you will need to use cement. If your basement isn’t finished, waterproofing won’t work for walls you have painted, unless you completely remove the paint.

Remember, for jobs that seem too big to handle on your own, you can call your local DryPatrol office. They are the experts at water and mold remediation, and will save you money with your insurance company. No one does it right like DryPatrol, with a unique process that thoroughly cleans your basement, and the savings you won’t get with any other professional water damage company.