Mold & Mildew

Mold and mildew microorganisms are everywhere and will grow under certain conditions.  An environment that has water (moisture) and organic material (food source) will advance the growth of mold.  Mold will continue grow if a moisture problem is undiscovered or unaddressed.  Mold can emit toxic particles, which will travel through the air.

Effect of Mold

Excessive exposure to some types of mold can cause or worsen conditions such as asthma, hay fever, and or other allergies.  Depending on the amount of exposure, more serious health effects such as fevers and breathing problems can occur.

Prevent mold growth

The best and most cost effective strategy to managing the growth of mold and mildew is to prevent the intrusion of water and moisture into the basement and to control the humidity.  Eliminating organic material (food source) or using mold resistant material will help, but the truth of the matter is that there are to many food sources in the basement to prevent mold from growing by eliminating just one.  Mold will eventually grow on all surfaces including mold resistant material.   The only effective way to control mold is to control moisture. Mold resistant material is effective only when used in conjunction with proper moisture control

With Pittsburgh and surrounding towns experiencing above average snowfall and rain during the year, basements are at more of a risk of flooding than other parts of the state. Wet basements and seepage can lead to mold and mildew growth in the basement.