a. Occasional seepage damp wall mildew/mold formation likely/possible?:
Prolonged or heavy rains that last for days may bring seepage into basements. In soils that drain poorly, this is almost invariably due to soil saturation, which in turn builds up a head of hydrostatic pressure (from the surface of the soil downward) that exerts itself against the foundation walls. Clogged basement drains, located at the areaway entrance platform, may cause seepage under and around the door as well. Seepage or dampness in foundation walls can cause paneling to swell and buckle, and encourage the growth of mildew in basements (Fig. a1, Item A). Check behind furniture or wall hangings for mildew. Anything that lessens or prevents air circulation against the walls will contribute to mildew growth.
What to: How to:
Occasional seepage or dampness through foundation walls occurs in most homes. Seepage is normally repaired from outside the house. The landscape grading should always provide for positive drainage away from the foundation. Gutters and downspouts must deliver roof runoff water well away from the house foundation walls. Voids under stoops should be tightly filled with heavy clay content soil. Slabs that drain toward the house must be repaired to drain away from the foundation. At a minimum, slabs that butt against foundation should have the slab/wall crack sealed with a waterproof caulking. Swimming pool caulking is generally quite effective.
Mold or mildew growing on basement walls can usually be washed off with a chlorine bleach and water solution. Mix one quart of bleach into one gallon of warm water and add in 1/3 cup liquid detergent and 1/3 cup Tri Sodium Phosphate (T.S.P.). WARNING: MAKE CERTAIN THERE IS NO AMMONIA IN THE DETERGENT SINCE IT WILL REACT WITH THE CHLORINE. Sponge the mildew and allow it to stand for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse off with clear water.
WARNING: The bleach may fade the color on some materials. Test this on an inconspicuous spot first to be certain that no color fading occurs. |
