When the smell of mildew is an issue?

[BuzzyRedBank]

When thinking of buying a small sloop---what is the consideration for mildew in the cabin as being a detriment to the value of the boat? Not that it is seen so much as smelled---wouldn't this affect the purchase price?

 

[RamSport47]

It would always be a consideration to me...I'd want to know where it came (comes) from and what can be done to stop whatever is leaking

 

[thataway4]

Agree with wanting to know. But there are ways to combat it--and many boats have mildew, without leaks, especially in humid areas. A dehumidifier will keep the humidity down (we use a Mighty Dry, which is a marine unit and smaller than the "Sears"). An ozone generator used judiciously will take care of mildew odor--but be cautious, and don't run it too long, or when you are aboard.

 

[BuzzyRedBank]

Thanks for the responses, fellas---I was wondering if attacking the source with bleach was a remedy---I know that there's a big difference in dousing your bathroom at home with Clorox to remove mildew, as it works immediately, but using it on a boat and breathing bleach fumes while trying to sleep aboard is no one's idea of fun. Also, I'm guessing some parts of the structure would be eventually damaged by recurrent bleach use, whereas a dehumidifier is portable and controllable....moisture and temperature combined appear to be the culprits, hmmm??