Living along the Jersey Shore can be an amazing experience. There are beautiful oceanic views that you will definitely love. The refreshing sea breezes are also a thing to admire.
However, residing here does come with its own unique challenges. One major problem that you’ll face is the high humidity levels.
This is a condition that can wreak massive havoc on your home. This is especially true in the basement. If this area is damp and poorly ventilated, there are very high chances for mold growth.
The issue with this element is that it can cause significant damage to property. In addition to this, it will affect overall indoor air quality.
The good news is that such shortcomings are quite preventable. This article gives tips on how to go about this.
Don’t Let Mold Grow In Your Basement, Call Us!
Control Humidity Levels with Dehumidifiers
A dehumidifier works by extracting excess moisture from the air. The result of this is usually a dry and comfortable space that you can enjoy.
Proper control goes a long way in limiting the conditions for mold growth. Therefore, by having one in the lower parts of your house, you can be sure that it will be quite beneficial.
Modern units even come with automatic sensors. These ones do an incredible job of adjusting operation according to the current levels. The result is enhanced air quality without constant monitoring.
With all these benefits, you should definitely consider investing in one. This will help keep your space fresh and well-protected.
Seal Cracks and Leaks in Walls and Floors
As a property owner in the Jersey Shore, you have to put in the needed effort to keep moisture at the lowest possible levels. One way you can make this possible is to seal cracks and leaks. This is quite crucial because even the smallest openings can allow water to seep in. This is especially likely to happen after heavy rain or during high tide conditions. The result of this would be a damp environment that encourages unwanted growth.
It’s crucial that you inspect both concrete and masonry surfaces on a regular basis. As you do this, pay close attention to corners and foundation joints. If you find any cracks, consider using a sealant to close them.
Improve Air Circulation and Ventilation
Good air circulation is key when it comes to maintaining a clean and dry environment. To ensure this, consider opening windows and doors whenever possible. This goes a long way in promoting natural airflow. You will also benefit from installing an exhaust fan. Taking these steps will help keep the air moving. It will also minimize dampness immensely.
If the space doesn’t have windows, consider adding vents. You can also use an air purifier with a circulation feature.
You also have to check that vents and ducts aren’t blocked. This helps promote consistent air exchange.
With a good ventilation, you will be able to achieve a healthier living area.
Inspect and Maintain Gutters and Drainage Systems
You don’t want your gutters to get clogged with leaves and debris. This is because water will overflow and pool around the structure. Once this happens, it will eventually seep into the lower surfaces of your property.
This is something that you can avoid quite easily. All you need to do is clean them at least twice a year. You should also check to see that downspouts are directing water away from the foundation.
Proper drainage maintenance is key to protecting the foundation. On top of this, it minimizes the risk of damp conditions, which contribute to mold growth.
Keep Surfaces Clean and Dry
For the best possible results, you want to keep your basement tidy at all times. Mold thrives in damp, dusty, and cluttered environments. The good thing is that this is quite avoidable. All you need to do is consider regular cleaning. Taking this action helps eliminate the organic matter that mold feeds on.
Therefore, consider wiping down surfaces frequently. This is especially crucial after heavy rain or during times of high humidity. You can use a dry cloth or a mild cleaning solution for this purpose.
It might seem like an impossible task. However, keeping your Jersey Shore basement mold-free is quite possible. All that is required to achieve this is consistent care and proactive prevention. With the right actions, you can protect your home from the damage that mold can cause.
One thing that you have to do is to maintain a clean and dry basement. Through this, you are able to minimize the likelihood of mold having the right conditions to thrive. When ready to give your space a nice cleanup, consider partnering with Always Immaculate. Through our cleaning and maintenance services, we’ll be able to keep your basement in top condition year-round.