The Wrong Materials for Finishing a Basement
Basement space is different than the rest the home. Because it is built below ground, it is prone to a variety of moisture problems. Refer back to the causes of basement water problems for a detailed list of these sources and the options for repair.
Also, as was described in the section regarding mold and mildew growth, the combination of heat, moisture, and food sources in a basement creates the perfect environment for basement mold to grow.
One of the largest food sources for mold is drywall. The paper facing, and the soft gypsum core absorb moisture, and become the perfect food source for mold growth. The natural air flow (the stack effect) rises from the basement to the upper levels of the home, thus carrying the mold to the living areas above. Health concerns created lawsuits which in turn created insurance disclaimers, which in turn created real estate disclosure regarding mold, which in turn create mold inspections. The question is what is the likelihood that mold growth will occur if food sources (drywall) are used to construct new space in the basement?Fabric basement wall panels can create the same problem in a different way. Although fabric panels are advertised as panels that contain fibers, such as fiberglass fibers, that are not food sources for mold, they are still susceptible to mold growth.
Fabric panels conta
in millions of spaces between the tiny strands of fabric that make up the panel. As air flows into these spaces, it brings along dust, dirt, and other food sources that mold can feed on. So the spaces between the fabric get clogged with food sources for mold. Add moisture flowing into these air spaces, and now we have the combination necessary for mold growth. So again, although the fabric might not be a food source, the fabric panel is a net of sorts, that catches the food that mold needs to grow. In fact, a study by the US Dept. of Energy concluded that fabric can trap the food sources that mold needs to grow.
Best Cellar Basement Systems is a full service company, which means that we do much more than waterproofing for wet basement issues and foundation repair.
So why would anyone want to use drywall or fabric materials when there are inorganic materials available that, when installed, create gorgeous rooms to use for play rooms, rec rooms, offices, workout rooms/ gyms, home theatre rooms, and more!?
