Most people think that it can take years for toxic mold to grow in sufficient quantities to affect someone’s health in a negative way. But the truth is, it can take less than 3 days if the conditions are right.
For instance, damp basements are the ideal breeding ground for mold. The problem is further exacerbated because damp basements and crawl spaces are becoming an increasingly common problem for homeowners in Maryland and all across the United States.
Mold and Its Effects
There are several species of mold. And, while some species will only ruin your belongings, others can aggravate your health. These dangerous varieties of mold can cause serious damage to your respiratory system. Other symptoms you may experience include:
- Itchy eyes and skin
- Headaches
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
Furthermore, the reactions vary from individual to individual. As a result, the side effects range from mild to severe, depending on how sensitive you are to it.
Interesting Facts
Everyone knows that mold thrives in places where there is sufficient moisture. But, few ever pay attention to what they eat, another vital element of their survival. These fungi actually love organic materials like, wood, wallpaper, paint and fabric, which is why they seem to grow virtually anywhere.
Furthermore, it doesn’t matter how much of a neat freak you are, mold can Continue reading →
This entry was posted in Mold Remediation on November, 30, 2016
Humans need water to survive but, it can mean murder for your home. The presence of this element can weaken the foundation of your home and creates the optimal environment for mildew and mold growth.
If you notice that your basement is damp or wet, swift action must be taken to prevent expensive water damage. And, since it probably isn’t an easy fix, you will need the help of an expert basement waterproofing contractor. He or she will examine your basement and provide you with several methods to solve the moisture issue. Some of them include:
Crack Injections: This option is perfect for homes with a poured concrete foundation. If the seepage is coming from the walls, the contractor will use polyurethane or epoxy injections to stop the leaks and solve the problem. It is not ideal for major water-related issues.
Sealants: If water is coming into your basement through cracks, the contractor can use a special waterproofing coating/sealant to seal the cracks. This is a relatively inexpensive option and it’s great for small problems.
Interior waterproofing: Most homeowners consider this to be an excellent solution because it doesn’t require exterior excavation and it’s relatively affordable. But, it’s important to note that, this method does not prevent water from entering the basement, rather it keeps it Continue reading →
This entry was posted in Basement Waterproofing on November, 23, 2016
Maryland is home to some beautiful houses, there’s no doubt about it. Many homeowners take pride in their properties and do everything to make sure that they are well maintained and comfortable.
But, when going down the list of things that need to be done to keep our houses in tip-top shape, too many of us put waterproofing the basement at the bottom of the list. And, that’s if it makes it onto the list in the first place. Waterproofing the basement is simply one of those things that we don’t think about until the damage has already been done.
Water Isn’t Always Good For You
A damp basement can weaken the structural integrity of your home and cause major (and costly) foundational issues. But thankfully, there are a number of warning signs that can alert you to a small problem before it gets bigger. Some of them include:
- Mold: Mold thrives in damp environments so if you find any in your home, it’s a strong indication that a leak is present. But, that’s not all – some types of mold are harmful and can cause a variety of respiratory issues.
- Odor: Mildew and mold give off a unique odor that’s hard to miss. If your basement smells out of sorts, water damage is likely the culprit.
- Cracks in the
Continue reading → This entry was posted in Water Damage on November, 15, 2016
Unless the basement has been converted into a living space, most of us don’t spend much time down there. So, when the walls start to crack or moisture starts seeping into the concrete, we don’t usually find out until it’s too late.
Benefits of Waterproofing
Basements are literally the foundation of our homes and, as such, are very important to maintaining their structural integrity. Making sure that this space is waterproofed can go a long way towards this goal but, many homeowners worry about the cost. In other words, does the cost outweigh the advantages? For the answer to this question, consider these points:
- Protection: When water seeps into your home, it can put the foundation’s integrity at risk and your loved ones in danger. Waterproofing is one of the best ways to keep the foundation of your home intact. And, if you use your basement for storage or as a living area, it will keep items (like gadgets, appliances, furniture, etc.) safe.
- Healthier living space: Many homeowners have converted their basements into spare bedrooms, rec rooms, and more. And, to ensure you get maximum enjoyment out of these spaces, it’s important that they remain dry. If not, they become the perfect breeding grounds for mildew and mold. Not only does this create a nasty smell, it can also endanger
Continue reading → This entry was posted in Basement Waterproofing on November, 07, 2016
If you’ve developed a mold infestation in your basement, there is only one truly effective way to get rid of it and protect the health of your family: Mold remediation. You may have heard the term before or read about the benefits, but may still not understand exactly what this process entails. So if you are working with one of our experts at AAA Action Waterproofing for basement mold remediation, here are the detailed steps of the process: Continue reading →
This entry was posted in Mold Remediation on October, 21, 2016
One of the most dangerous things that can happen in your home is basement flooding. If your basement floods, it can present both an immediate threat to your safety and cause long term damage to your home. It is essential that you do everything you can to protect yourself against basement flooding so that you and your home are safe. If your basement has flooded, you need to call an expert right away. Continue reading →
This entry was posted in Structural Damage on October, 20, 2016
Basement moisture can be a huge problem for your home. Moisture in your basement can damage your possessions, attract mold and pests, and compromise the structural integrity of your foundation. The best way to deal with basement moisture is with professional basement waterproofing. Here are the ten warning signs you may need waterproofing in your basement: Continue reading →
This entry was posted in Water Damage on October, 19, 2016
If you have found excess moisture in your basement, you may be tempted to do a little DIY solution. The most common DIY solution is waterproofing paint. Hardware stores will often sell waterproofing paint as the ultimate cure for basement moisture issues. Though waterproofing paint can act as a thin barrier, in most cases it is not enough of a solution to deal with the presence of basement moisture. Continue reading →
This entry was posted in Basement Waterproofing on October, 18, 2016
Your home has the support it needs to withstand decades upon decades of pressure, when it is set on a solid foundation. There is a long list of problems the can build up over time if your house’s foundation is not set properly. Simply stated, your house settles when the soil beneath it is unable to support your home’s weight. A sinking foundation is one problem that can occur if the foundation is laid improperly or on unstable soil. This can also be related to changes in the soil beneath your home. Maryland’s clay soils are problematic for foundations looking for secure footing. When clay soil holds water, it expands. When clay soil is dry, it shrinks. This creates a chaotic atmosphere for a foundation looking for stability. Your foundation could also be on shaky ground if the fill soil beneath your home is not properly compacted. Sinking foundations need to be addressed as soon as they are noticed to help prevent future damage to your home. Continue reading →
This entry was posted in Foundation Repair on October, 17, 2016
If you and your family are experiencing allergy symptoms inside your home, mold could be the culprit. Mold is present in every home, but when given the right conditions it can spread to unhealthy levels affecting the air you are constantly breathing inside your house and the structural integrity of your walls, ceilings and floors. Here are some helpful hints to help you detect if it necessary to schedule a professional mold test. Continue reading →
This entry was posted in Mold & Mildew on October, 16, 2016
