Can you feel it?
The birds are chirping, the sun shines longer providing warmth and there is more puddles of water compared to the ever so disappearing surrounding snow.
With the significant March 20th date past us or as many of you know as the first day of spring, people are generally happier.
It’s been such a long cold winter. I’m tired of snow shoveling, the slippery ice and the extreme wind chills.
Bring the heat please.
Well as you step outside, you’ll likely smell moisture in the air. With the long winter approaching to a much needed end, the outside including the ground beneath us has started thawing out. This means annoying outdoor allergies begin because bacteria has awakened and is filling the outside air.
Did you know moisture moves into any material area that can absorb moisture? This includes the basements which is a haven for picking up moisture. Basement foundation walls are typically made of material (i.e. concrete) that is porous and will eventually degrade over time. Any pre-existing cracks will become larger and water eventually moves into the basements.
The end result is a musty smell found within basement areas. When you smell mustiness you’re smelling bacteria or as others cringe to say “mold”.
Mold develops within 24-48 hours in areas where moisture comes in contact with organic material (e.g. cotton, wool, paper, wood) coupled with insufficient air ventilation. Smell and discoloration of surfaces are indicators that mold is likely present.
If mold is present then this can have a direct effect on one’s physical well being. Mold can cause cold-like symptoms, a degradation of one’s respiratory system, nasal issues, watery eyes, skin irritations just to name a few.
If you are experiencing the aforementioned then it is highly recommended you visit a specialist. I find using a Naturopath, Homeopath, an Allergist or even a Chiropractor is very important in maintaining oneself. The latter, our friendly Chiropractor is critical as they represent a direct connection to our central nervous system. They can help determine through subtle touches of the spine what corrections are needed to lessen the mold-induced symptoms.
The key here is removing the mold. Depending on the size and type of the mold, one might need to have it removed professionally by a Mold Remediator, A Mold Inspector can help determine this through lab testing.
Best case scenario, there is no musty smell in the basement and likely no significant mold present. To be proactive, homeowners should obtain a dehumidifier for the basement area. Its purpose is to dry out the basement by collecting as much moisture from a given area. This is a preventative measure and should be used often during the non-winter months.m We want to get rid of the moisture which again is a catalyst for mold development especially in areas with organic materials and has very little air ventilation. Another solution but not as affective is opening up windows allowing air flow and thus drying out the given areas.
I have an interesting experience to tell. One family was told by doctors their young 2 & 4 year old kids had Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). The 4 year old was barely speaking. This was horrifying for any parents to hear. They’re family history showed no signs of ADD and they were doubting their own child rearing ability. What do you do in this situation? Who do you go to? Who should you listen to? In one case, a friend had mentioned the mustiness was strong within their home. I was brought in. Upon further inspection, mold was found in the basement and we suspected this was an instigator to ADD behavior.
Mold Remediation (removal) took place.
Soon after, their kids started developing tremendously. 6 months later, their eldest had caught up to her peers and does not stop talking. The youngest is like any 2 year old. Being the “Curious George”, very mischievous but doing so very adorably.
Is this a coincidence? Perhaps!
While there is great debate on what causes health issues … one cannot deny the feeling it’s better to not be exposed than to be exposed to mold.
Finally what do you smell in your basement ???
For further inquiries on air quality testing / mold testing quotes, feel free to email at info@superior.bluedotproduction.ca
