March 18, 2023, 11:24 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Furniture placed directly against the basement wall can become a problem over time. This is especially true for new constructions and finished basements. An expert explains why this is the case.
The basement is often used as storage space in many households. Here, you can store certain foods, unused clothes, balcony furniture, or household appliances that are rarely needed. Naturally, you also need a shelf to avoid clutter. However, in certain cases, you should keep in mind: Furniture should not be placed directly against the basement wall. What’s behind this advice?
Do Not Place Furniture Directly Against the Basement Wall
It can take up to a year for a newly built or newly renovated basement to dry out. This is because building materials such as plaster, screed, paint, and wallpaper paste bring a lot of moisture into this part of the house. Therefore, Bernd Hetzer, an expert from the Quality Association for Prefabricated Basements (GÜF), recommends placing furniture at least five centimeters away from the walls during this time. This allows air to circulate and aid in drying. Otherwise, there is a risk of mold formation.
Read more: Damp Basement? Experts Explain What You Can Do About It
Cork Discs Under Wall Pictures
The same applies to wall pictures you want to hang in the new living basement. Hetzer advises using small cork discs to keep the pictures slightly away from the wall. Boxes with delicate books or similar items should be stored in the basement with caution during the initial period.
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How to Properly Ventilate Your Basement in Summer to Prevent Mold
Regularly Ventilate the Basement Even in Winter
What You Can Do About a Damp Basement
Ventilate the Basement Adequately
In the first months after a renovation or in the first year after converting or expanding into living spaces, the basement should be thoroughly ventilated and, if necessary, well heated. A helpful tool: use a thermometer and hygrometer to monitor the conditions in the basement.
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The humidity should not consistently exceed about 60 percent, according to Bernd Hetzer, who is the sales manager at a GÜF member company. The room temperature should not fall below 15 to 16 degrees Celsius, as mold primarily forms where moist air condenses on cold surfaces, Hetzer explains.
Also interesting: What to Consider When Using the Basement as Living Space
Important: The basement should generally be ventilated regularly. Hetzer advises airing it out twice a day for ten minutes each time. Exceptions are during fog, humid thunderstorm air, and on summer days that are expected to be similarly warm and humid. In such cases, it’s best to ventilate when it’s still cool and dry outside–such as early in the morning or late in the evening.
with material from dpa