Consider how the air quality of your basement is affecting those in your household. Maintaining good air quality can improve your breathing and overall health.

Tips and Tricks to Improve Basement Air Quality

Basements are known to be subject to the growth of fungi and the accumulation of contaminants, whether used for storage or as a playroom. There are a few ways to ensure that the air quality of your basement remains safe throughout the year. That is why we have created a list of some tips and tricks that will help you improve the air quality of your basement:

1. Proper Ventilation

Many homes with basements in Colorado do not have proper ventilation to allow the recycling of air between the indoors and the outdoors. This results in circulating air that may have been exposed to substantial amounts of dust, dander, hair, mold, mildew and other substances. To improve ventilation in your basement, it is a good idea to install a mechanical ventilation system. This can bring outside air indoors and purify it before it enters your home. It is important that outdoor air is properly purified, but we will get to that. Mechanical ventilation systems are great ways to ensure that the air quality in your basement remains satisfactory. Recycling indoor and outdoor air will help expel air that has been around contaminants and fungi within your home.  

2. Keep Windows Closed

Many homeowners believe that opening windows and running fans is the best way to improve air quality indoors. What they do not realize is that outdoor air is just as subject to contaminants, allergens, bacteria and fungi as indoor air that has not been purified. Purifying outdoor air is key to ensuring that contaminants and other substances are not present in the air that you are breathing. It is best to keep windows closed and rely on a sufficient mechanical ventilation system for purified air. 

3. Air Purifiers  

Air purifiers themselves circulate the air in your basement through a series of filters and strip out contaminants that may be present in the air. Not all air purifiers are made equally. That is why it is important to invest in an air purifier that features elements such as a HEPA filter, Carbon filter and Ultraviolet light. These features help eliminate up to 99% of contaminants, including dust, dander, mold spores, allergens and more! Be sure to find an air filter that is the appropriate size for your basement.

4. Dehumidifiers

Dampness and humidity are major contributors to the build-up of mold and mildew on the ceiling, joists, walls or floor. This will also eliminate the musty smell that comes with fungi such as these. Mold and mildew do not only result in foul smells, these fungi also can cause major health problems that range from allergies all the way to asthma. To prevent the growth of mold, invest in a dehumidifier and be sure to keep humidity levels below 50%. This will ensure that mold growth ceases. 

5. Test for Radon

Breathing in radon gases that result from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water is known to cause lung cancer. Sadly, more than 2,000 people die per year of lung cancer caused by inhaling radon. Ordering a professional radon test is the best way to detect radon. If your home is exposed to radon, you may need to install a mitigation system that expels radon from your home. Sometimes, radon and mold can enter your home through cracks or gaps in your basement floor or foundation. Luckily, there are specialists who can fix those cracks and gaps!

Does Your Basement Require Maintenance?

If you have noticed an influx in dampness or humidity in your basement, along with mold or mildew, you may need to call a professional. In most cases, cracks and gaps in your basement floor or foundation can lead to the spread of these contaminants and water droplets. 

Complete Basement Systems have been lending a helping hand to the communities of Denver and Colorado Springs for more than 20 years! Our specialists are pros when it comes to ensuring that the air quality of your basement remains adequate and safe for inhalation. From waterproofing to foundation repairs, there is nothing we cannot do to improve the air quality in your basement. Contact us today for a consultation!

[ad_2]

Originally Appeared Here