Most people do not install valves to prevent having a flooded basement until they experience flood damage. Remember that the basement is the lowest part of the house, therefore it is the area most prone to flood damage. Once you experience having a flooded basement for the first time, it would be foolish not to install backwater valves to avoid struggling with the same flooded basement problem all over again in the future. Of course, spending a few bucks for valves is nothing compared to the damage that a flooded basement may cause, like a basement filled with molds.



One of the more serious damages that you can get from a flooded basement is the growth of molds. Mold growth does not only pose a threat to your health; it can also affect your house's structure, as it can also cause structural damage in the long run. Moreover, not a lot of people would want to buy a home housing molds in its basement, in case you decide to sell your home someday.

The basement is probably one of the most neglected areas of the house, since it is seldom that people visit the basement of their houses. Perhaps it is only paid a visit when there are more neglected items to put in it, or if it transforms into a flooded basement due to heavy rains or sewage backups. Molds do not usually develop under normal circumstances, since one of the factors that play an important role in mold growth is dampness. In the case of a flooded basement which has not been cleaned properly, the dampness still persists for a long time, hence providing a medium perfect for growing molds. Tie this up with sewage backup, and you do not just get a flooded basement-you are awarded a bonus "molded" basement as well. Truly, a flood and a neglected basement is a deadly and "moldy" combination.

Mold can easily spread through the basement's walls and floors. In worst circumstances, mold spores from your basement can go to other areas of your house through the air. This becomes easier if the heating and cooling system of your house is located in your basement, so get ready for a mold invasion in your entire house.

Mold coming from a flooded basement generally spark health-related issues. These molds can cause skin allergies, itchiness, open sores, rashes, and even eye irritation. With all these health risks, you need to have your basement mold-tested to ensure that you are not endangering your health and the health of your whole family. Moreover, the air of every room in the house must be mold tested, since mold can spread through different parts of the house.

If you decide to take matter into your own hands, you can buy a do-it-yourself mold test kit from your hardware store. You also need to equip yourself with proper protective gear, such as a breathing air respirator, so as to protect yourself from the dangers of mingling with molds. To make matters easier for you, you can also opt to hire a certified mold inspector to have the air in your house tested for molds.

The prevention for mold growth is simple-take pains in avoiding a flooded basement, since this is the cause of mold growth. If you do not treat the cause in the first place, you will never get rid of molds no matter how many mold inspectors you hire.