Environment Canada has predicted a warm and “relatively” dry summer, but with the advent of hot, humid weather already this past May, we’ve already seen nasty storms and heavy rainfall conditions of the kind that can lead to basement flooding.
High temperatures and general atmospheric humidity already create ideal conditions for mold growth. If you add flooding and increases moisture, it’s the perfect recipe for it to flourish.
What to do in case of a flood
If your basement has flooded, here are some steps you can take to mitigate the damage:
- A small pump that you can purchase at most hardware stores can help to get the water out of your house and back outdoors
- Turning on the heat can help – between 20-22 degrees Celsius can help dry it out
- Clean and disinfect wet areas using household cleaners
- A dehumidifier in your basement is a good recommendation at any time: if you’re using a dehumidifier, close your doors and windows to dry it out. If you’re not using one, then opening doors and windows will help.
- Get tested! Even with the best of efforts, mold growth can still take hold inside walls and other areas where you just can’t reach.
Chronic Dampness in the Basement
If your basement is constantly damp, the problem may be the layout of the house (i.e. your property is lower than your neighbours) or water may be coming in via drainage systems like gutters, eavestroughs and drainage pipelines. You’ll typically need help from construction or landscaping contractors to fix those issues.
Even small seepage can cause big problems over time when it comes to mold and many other issues too. Here are some signs that your basement has moisture issues:
- Rusting steel objects
- “Efflorescence” on the walls – this is a whitish mineral deposit that occurs where water has come in through the walls
- Dark or stained wood
A moist basement is a breeding ground for mold growth, and it’s particularly problematic in that mold spores can get into your ductwork and travel throughout your home, compromising indoor air quality. The EPA suggests that you keep humidity levels at less than 60% with proper ventilation of basements and crawlspaces as well as the use of dehumidifiers.
Even if you don’t notice any of the signs of dampness or moisture, you may notice the signs of mold exposure, including allergic rhinitis and other symptoms similar to a mild allergic reaction, like throat and eye irritation as well as a runny nose.
Get Professional Help
Whether your basement is damp because of a flood or chronic seepage over time, the risks are clear. Mold Inspections can help with our Mold Detection Services. We can find the mold you can’t see with our cutting edge equipment and mold testing methods, combined with seasoned professionals who know how to get the job done right.
Know what you are getting into. For Mold Testing and Detection Services in Toronto, Contact Moldinspections.ca for a hassle-free quote today.
MoldInspections.ca is the trusted leader for mold-free homes and breathable indoor air spaces in Toronto, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and beyond. Providing certified mold inspection, detection and testing since 2005, we service home owners, real-estate agents, landlords, property managers, insurance companies and businesses. Featured on CTV and recommended by contractors, we regularly serve as expert witnesses in court proceeding relating to Mold and Indoor Air Quality issues. Do you have mold? Call us today for a free quote at (416) 575-6111.
Mold Inspectors in Mississauga, Vaughan, Ajax, Barrie, Caledon and beyond.
Allstate Insurance recently reported that water damage has become the leading cause of property damage in Canada. Citing the growing number of torrential rainstorms combined with aging infrastructure in many Canadian cities, it adds up to a recipe for water damage – along with mold growth and infestation.
The Insurance Bureau of Canada estimates that losses to water damage amount to a whopping $1.7 billion a year, and Allstate says that 39% of those claims are related to sewer backups in the wake of flooding.
“Water seems to be the new fire as it is now the leading cause of property damage in Canada,” says Karen Benner, spokesperson for Allstate Canada. “Even if your neighbourhood has never experienced problems with basement flooding or sewer backup, your home can still be at risk. Overloaded sewers can back up through household sewer lines and flow into basements or ground level apartments,” says Benner.
Some helpful suggestions:
- A backwater valve – prevents sewage form getting into the home – also a sump pump in the basement for emergencies
- Disconnect your downspout from the sewer system
- Don’t use washing machine or dishwasher in rainstorm to avoid overloading the sewer system
A case in point:
Students at London’s Wilfrid Laurier University have been deprived of their beloved Wilf’s Pub since October after a sewer backup caused extensive damage to the building. After it underwent extensive rehabilitation, there was an attempt to reopen the pub in January, however mold issues resurfaced and caused it to be closed all over again.
The example illustrates the importance of getting good help, a seasoned mold removal expert like Mold Inspections who will do the job right. Do you notice a persistent, musty odour in your home? Have you experienced respiratory systems or headaches that just won’t go away. Then you should call in the experts right away for an inspection.
Get help from the experts at MoldInspections.ca. Please call us for a hassle-free quote today.
MoldInspections.ca is the trusted leader for mold-free homes and breathable indoor air spaces in Toronto, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and beyond. Providing certified mold inspection, detection and testing since 2005, we service home owners, real-estate agents, landlords, property managers, insurance companies and businesses. Featured on CTV, CP24, Global TV and recommended by contractors, we regularly serve as expert witnesses in court proceeding relating to Mold and Indoor Air Quality issues. Do you have mold? Call us today for a free quote at (416) 575-6111.
The basement of a Toronto area home has a secret that goes back to the dark days of the Cold War – and some issues any homeowner will relate to.
The home is located in Aurora, north of Toronto. Built in 1875 by one of the town’s early residents, outside it’s a lovely restored Victorian home. Inside and downstairs in the basement, you’ll find “The Bunker”.
Its official name is The Preparedness Centre, meant to serve as the hub for local government operations in the event of a nuclear attack. The Bunks is equipped with a 35 x 60 foot concrete and steel operations area complete with maps on Plexiglas boards, including one where people would list casualties and radiation data.
High Tech Communications…and Mold
Along with intriguing surprises like 100 telephone lines and storage tanks for drinking water, the current owners, who keep it functional for posterity, are fighting a constant battle many other homeowners will identify with – a battle against mold.
Concrete Basement?
Water seepage into the concrete structure has led to rotting drywall and ongoing mold growth. Concrete is a common material used in basements, both in walls and flooring, and any cracks or leaks, or frequent condensation especially where there’s inadequate ventilation, can lead to mold growth.
Do you notice a persistent, musty odour in your basement or crawl space? Is it prone to leaks or condensation? Then you should call in the experts right away for an inspection.
Get help from the experts at MoldInspections.ca. Please call us for a hassle-free quote today.
MoldInspections.ca is the trusted leader for mold-free homes and breathable indoor air spaces in Toronto, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and beyond. Providing certified mold inspection, detection and testing since 2005, we service home owners, real-estate agents, landlords, property managers, insurance companies and businesses. Featured on CP24, CTV, Global TV and recommended by contractors, we regularly serve as expert witnesses in court proceeding relating to Mold and Indoor Air Quality issues. Do you have mold? Call us today for a free quote at (416) 575-6111.