Basements have come a long way from being known as the spare room or even a scary part of the house (as shown in many horror movies). The basement suddenly had a new purpose as people became more creative with their living spaces.
However, its location can be an unhealthy place to spend time in. The features that make them conducive for transforming into a private theater or billiard room are also the same ones that can threaten our health.
That is why it is important to understand the necessary precautions you need to take before renovating your basement. This blog post will share the pros and cons of living in a basement and how you can ensure healthy air quality in this part of your house.
Why is it unhealthy to live in a basement?
The basement structure primarily contributes to it being an unhealthy option to live in. This table enumerates the features and how they make the lower level of your house susceptible to different kinds of harmful pollutants.
| Structural Elements | Risks |
| Limited ventilation |
|
| Underground location |
|
| The usual site for keeping electrical, security, and gas systems |
|
| Small to no openings or windows |
|
Is living in a basement bad for your lungs?
Basement air is usually bad for respiratory health because it is damp and moldy. Certain gases make it dangerous to live in the lower part of your house.
These are the gases and particulate matter that put your lungs at risk.
Radon
Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas occurring naturally in the bedrock under many houses. The Earth’s crust contains uranium, which naturally decays, producing radon. This gas can enter the house through cracks in the walls and floors.
This gaseous by-product of uranium decay ranks second to smoking as the leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, being responsible for around 20,000 lung cancer deaths annually.
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide (CO) is also odorless and colorless. It is silent but deadly because an accumulation of CO negatively affects the blood’s ability to distribute oxygen throughout the body. Damage caused by CO can start with classic flu-like symptoms like headache, runny nose, and watery eyes, then progress to nausea, vomiting, and disorientation, with the worst-case scenario being brain damage and death.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
VOCs are harmful chemicals released into the air by floor coverings, glue, cigarette smoke, furniture, and varnishes, to name a few. These emissions can cause various reactions, such as allergies, irritations, and central nervous system disorders.
Asbestos
Asbestos is a natural mineral fiber commonly found in various household materials, such as pipe or furnace insulation and tiles. When these materials are damaged, asbestos can release microscopic fibers, which may be inhaled. Prolonged exposure to these fibers can increase the risk of developing lung cancer.
Mold
The mold consists of microscopic fungi that thrive in damp environments. It can appear in various colors, including black and white, and often emits a musty or earthy odor. Mold requires moisture and a suitable material to grow on, such as wood, paper, or carpeting. It typically develops in areas where moisture accumulates due to excessively humid air, inadequate ventilation, or low temperatures. Water infiltration from leaks in the roof, plumbing, or exterior cladding, as well as cracks in the foundation or flooding, also creates favorable conditions for mold growth, particularly in basements.
When mold is present, it releases spores into the air, which everyone in the household can inhale. Exposure to these spores can cause health issues, including irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, coughing, phlegm buildup, wheezing, shortness of breath, and exacerbation of asthma symptoms or allergic reactions.
How to improve basement air quality
You can still convert your basement into a theater, playroom, or home gym by taking extra steps to ensure that it has good air quality.
Improve the ventilation
Enclosed spaces have limited air circulation. An exhaust fan is highly recommended to remove humid and stale air and improve air circulation inside the basement.
You can also add a dehumidifier. This will reduce the moisture level and prevent mold growth.
Control the moisture
High humidity and dampness contribute to poor air quality inside your house’s sublevel. Address these problems by repairing the leaks to prevent seepage and installing a vapor barrier.
A vapor barrier will prevent ground moisture from seeping into your lower space.
Proper and thorough cleaning
Ensure that your cleaning methods eliminate dust and allergen sources. Your HVAC system is also essential to clean thoroughly.
Use a high-quality air monitor
Consider investing in a high-quality air monitor for your basement. A premium air monitor not only detects but also alerts you to the presence of potential pollutants, helping you identify what might make breathing the air in your basement challenging.
These devices are crucial in maintaining a healthy indoor environment by continuously monitoring air quality and providing real-time data on harmful contaminants such as mold spores, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other airborne particles. With an air monitor, you can proactively address air quality issues before they pose a significant risk to your health.
Final Thoughts
While basements offer a unique and versatile space for various activities, it’s crucial to recognize the potential health risks associated with living in or frequently using this area of your home. The very features that make basements ideal for private theaters or home gyms, such as their secluded and enclosed nature, can also create environments prone to poor air quality. Dampness, limited ventilation, and exposure to harmful gases like radon and carbon monoxide are just a few of the challenges that can turn your basement into an unhealthy space.
However, with the proper precautions, you can mitigate these risks and enjoy your basement without compromising your health. Investing in proper ventilation, controlling moisture levels, regularly cleaning, and using a high-quality air monitor are essential steps to ensure that the air in your basement remains safe and healthy. By taking these proactive measures, you can confidently transform your basement into a functional and enjoyable part of your home, knowing that you’ve created a space that prioritizes the well-being of everyone who uses it.
