The following contribution is from another author.
From mowing the lawn to knowing how to weatherproof your home, you have multiple ways to keep your home safe. But one area is often out of sight and out of mind. Your basement can be a vital element of your house but you may have neglected it for too long or used it as the palace to store everything that doesn’t fit elsewhere. This can cause unnecessary problems and even make your basement unsafe, so what can you do about it?
Declutter
Hands up if you’re guilty of using your basement to store things you don’t have room for elsewhere. While convenient, this approach can cause problems. A cluttered space is often unsafe as you balance boxes on top of boxes or leave walkways cluttered. Besides this, you’ll run out of room eventually, so you may as well clear out your basement now.
These basement cleanout tips will help you know how to begin, especially since any decluttering project is stressful. With this, you’ll find it easier to start and–hopefully–finish the job.
Check For Cracks
If you live in an older property, there’s a chance that your home has suffered some damage over the years. This damage could be caused by the weather or old age. Whatever the reason, cracks are a sign that something is (or could soon be) wrong.
While you needn’t panic just yet, it’s worth learning how concrete affects the foundation of your property and how any damage can put your property (not just your basement) at risk. If you identify any cracks, contact a construction firm immediately for an inspection.
Get Rid Of Mold And Mildew
Since basements are not as ventilated as other parts of the home and there are multiple [pipes running through the space, there is a stronger chance of mold and mildew.
These issues can cause health problems, causing infections or respiratory diseases if not dealt with. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to get rid of mold in your basement. It is also worth installing a dehumidifier and airing the basement out regularly.
Repair Support Beams
Much like your foundation, old support beams along the ceiling could have deteriorated over the years. In extreme cases, water exposure could have caused them to rot, which puts your family at risk.
Inspecting the support beams yearly helps keep the basement safe and avoid significant damage.
Don’t Forget the Stairs
Keeping the stairs in excellent condition will prevent a lot of potential problems and dangers in your basement. Old, rickety stairs are no good, especially if you have small children or pets in the house. It is best to install a handrail and put a lock on the basement door to prevent any serious injuries. You should also keep the stairs clear (which you can do during your declutter), and have a light switch easily accessible so people can see where they are going.
Safety
Whether you want to use your basement for something more productive or simply for the peace of mind that it is safe to use if you need it, these tips will help you get your basement back to its best, renew your home, and ensure you have something safe to build from when planning your next home improvement project.
