Signs of Mould in a Basement
A persistent musty or earthy smell is often the first clue. You may also see dark spots or fuzzy growth on drywall, framing, carpet, stored boxes or the back of furniture. Staining near the bottom of walls and on the underside of stairs is common.
Hidden mould is just as important. It can grow behind finished walls, under flooring and inside insulation where a slow leak or condensation has gone unnoticed.
Where Basement Mould Comes From
Mould needs moisture, a food source and time. Basements supply all three: cool walls that attract condensation, groundwater seepage, occasional plumbing leaks, and plenty of wood, paper and drywall. Homes near the St. Lawrence River and the 1000 Islands can see humid summers, and seasonal homes closed up for months may develop growth while nobody is there to notice.
Our Mould Removal Process
- Inspection. We look for visible growth, likely hidden areas and the moisture source behind them.
- Containment. The work area is sealed with plastic sheeting so spores are not spread through the house during cleanup.
- Air filtration. Filtered air equipment helps capture airborne particles while work is underway.
- Removal and cleaning. Porous materials with growth, such as drywall and insulation, are removed and bagged. Solid surfaces are cleaned.
- Drying. The area is dried thoroughly before anything is rebuilt.
- Source repair. We address the leak, seepage or humidity that caused the problem.
Fixing the Moisture Behind the Mould
Cleaning without fixing the water source usually means the mould returns. Depending on what the inspection finds, the moisture solution may involve basement waterproofing, foundation crack injection, a new pump through sump pump installation or a broader wet basement repair.
Small Patches and Larger Problems
Small spots of surface mould on hard surfaces can often be cleaned by a homeowner with care, gloves and good ventilation. Growth that covers a large area, keeps coming back, has spread into drywall or insulation, or follows a flood is better handled professionally. Anyone with asthma, allergies or other health concerns should take extra care and seek medical advice about exposure.
Keeping Mould From Returning
Keep basement humidity in check with a dehumidifier during humid months. Store items on shelving rather than directly on concrete. Avoid finishing walls until leaks are fixed, and leave a gap between furniture and exterior walls so air can circulate.
Serving Brockville and Nearby Communities
We provide mould removal in Brockville, Prescott, Gananoque, Athens, Lyn, Mallorytown, Maitland and the 1000 Islands area. See all service areas or browse the gallery for examples of this type of work.