What causes musty basement smells and why should you care?

What causes musty basement smells?

Do you avoid going down to your basement because there’s a weird smell you can’t get rid of, no matter how many air fresheners you put down there? Read further to understand what causes this smell and why it’s important to get it fixed quickly.

Musty smells in basements are primarily caused by the growth of mold and mildew. Both are types of fungi that commonly grow in damp and humid areas in the home, but there are some key differences between them. Mold generally appears as a white, green, or black substance. It reproduces by releasing airborne spores, which can be harmful to human health if inhaled. Mildew grows on plants, clothes, and other organic materials, and is considered an early stage of mold. It often resembles a powdery substance that can damage the materials it grows on. The main difference between these two fungi is that mildew grows on visible surfaces, whereas mold can develop anywhere. Basements are an ideal area for the growth of mold because they are typically damp, dark, and warm. These factors in combination with oxygen and a source of food (drywall, wood, clothing, shoes, etc…) are all that mold needs to grow and thrive. This can happen in as soon as 24–48 hours! Foundation cracks, plumbing leaks, and spills can lead to higher humidity and therefore mold infestation. Mold can easily develop on pipes and roofs, since most of them are surrounded by drywall and insulation.

Why is it dangerous?

Exposure to mold can cause serious problems to your health and to your home. According to the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, about 5% of individuals are predicted to have some allergic airway symptoms from molds over their lifetime[1]. Allergic reactions to mold are very common and they can be immediate or delayed.

Potential health problems:

• Respiratory issues (asthma attacks, difficulty breathing, coughing)
• Allergic reactions (sneezing, itchy eyes, rashes, etc…)
• Heart problems
• Migraines
• Depression[2] 

Potential home problems:

• Structural damage (weakened walls, floors, and ceilings)
• Poor indoor air quality
• Unpleasant stains and odors
• Decreased property value

To avoid these issues, you should contact a professional to come determine the cause of the mold growth and give you options to get rid of it once and for all. This can include waterproofing the basement or crawl space, installing a dehumidifier, installing a new drainage system, and/or fixing foundation cracks.