You likely understand it when someone mentions basement smell. It’s that damp, musty, stale odor that seems to hang in many basements. There’s nothing quite as unpleasant as having that musty smell permeate your home. It can settle into your clothes, blankets, curtains, carpets, and just about everything else you own. Besides being unpleasant, musty smells are an indication that there’s something going on behind the scenes that’s causing the odor. It’s important then, to find the source so you can take effective action.

What Causes Musty Odors in My Home?

The reason you smell that deep, musty odor in your home is because mold and mildew may be growing in your crawlspace. This is a common issue since this area of the home tends to be damp and dark. While both are fungi, they mold is much more dangerous for humans and it can be extremely damaging to the structure of your home as well. 

What Is Mildew and How Does It Affect People?

Mildew is mold growth that’s flat and spread out on a wall, ceiling, or similar surface. It’sIn your crawlspace, it might be on the walls or boards. It is typically gray, white, or dark brown in color. Headaches, minor respiratory issues, and sinus congestion are common when mildew is present. 

What Is Mold and What Are Its Effects?

Molds are generally black or green and have a furry appearance. Mold loves damp spots like basements, laundry rooms, bathrooms, and crawl spaces. Mold gives off the distinctive musty odor and can cause respiratory problems, skin issues, and more. It can also cause structural damage to your home.

Other Issues With Mold and Mildew 

Anytime there is mold or mildew growing in your home’s crawl space, it’s because of excess moisture buildup. This type of damp environment is the perfect habitat for a variety of pests that can invade your home. It’s common to find infestations of cockroaches, silverfish, earwigs, and centipedes. These pests in turn attract other pests that feed on them such as snakes and rodents whose presence can create health issues and dangers as well.

How Do I Get Rid of Mildew and Mold?

The best remedy for mold and mildew is to keep the moisture and humidity low. That’s not easy to do in a crawl space, but you can install downspouts, grade your property, and install vents to reduce moisture buildup. If you already have mold or mildew, it is imperative that you are positive which fungi you’re dealing with. If the fungi is light colored and spread out, it is likely mildew and can be cleaned with regular household cleaners. Be sure to wipe all the surfaces down to get mildew under control. Mold, on the other hand, can be very difficult to treat and requires professional mold remediation services. 

If you’ve had mold or mildew issues in your crawlspace, you may also be at risk for a pest infestation. What may begin as a few bugs attracted to a puddle can evolve into a full-blown insect infestation that attracts mice, rats, snakes and other pests to your home. Contact the pest control professionals at Critter Control of the Triangle for a pest inspection and advice on how to manage moisture and keep pests away.