Can You Make a Musty Basement Dry?

Mold and Mildew

• Sometimes the cause of a wet, musty smell is the presence of mold and mildew. These are not only unsightly, they are potentially damaging to your health. Before you make any major renovations of your basement, locate any signs of mold. This is seen in discoloration or even raised, fuzzy growths. These areas will need to be thoroughly cleaned, removed and replaced before making the basement habitable. Always wear protective eye wear, gloves and a face mask to cover your nose and mouth when handling or being near mold. For severe cases, professional assistance is necessary.

Waterproofing

• To prevent more moisture from invading the basement, you will need to thoroughly waterproof the space. Look for and immediately repair any plumbing problems that could cause standing water to pool in the space. Also locate any leaks that could be causing mold and moisture to build up. Leaks may cause a "bubbled" effect on the ceiling or the walls, discoloration or even just visibly dripping water. Repair any damages causing the leak. Seal the insulation and sheet rock with plastic or rubber waterproofing sheets that will protect the space from more mustiness.

Ventilation

• Proper ventilation is key for a clean basement space. A dehumidifier can help remove some of the moisture from the air to make the basement less humid and less prone to mold. Oscillating fans placed strategically around the room, especially in areas that are prone to moisture such as around plumbing, can help aerate the basement and prevent water from pooling. Reverse fans and air exchangers can also be beneficial additions to the space.

Lighting and Air Freshening

• Natural lighting might not always be an option in basement spaces. However, this does a lot to open up a room and make it less musty. If real sunlight is not available, look for artificial light sources that simulate natural light and use them for several hours a day, especially during wet, winter months. Also freshen up the space with natural air fresheners that will mask the musk. These options make the space less prone to that musty smell, and they can brighten up the feel of the whole room.