Black spots around cold room foundation !

[Christian Tag]

Hi everyone,

I need help because I don't know what those black spots are around the cold room foundation. The owner told me the room gets humid, he blocked the ventilation holes because it was too cold. Could it be the reason why ? Should a cold room be ventilated in winter time ?

I'm from Montreal, Quebec so the weather varies from - 40 to + 40 celcius.

Thank you for your help.

[wayne soper]

what is that copper line?
buried oil tank?
what's under the steel grate?
what's behind the spray foam?
foundation type etc.
black areas are moisture related, Mold, mildew
spray with anti bicrobial and open the vents.
if too cold in the winter, close the vents and leave the door open to the basement for ventilation

[Raymond Wand]

That is most likely a sump pump pit and the electrical cord to the pump.
The sump pit should be sealed as the water in it is evaporating, thus in a sealed room favourable to mould growth.

Alternatively open the vents and weather strip the door, and foam seal around the cold room side of the door frame.

[Christian Tag]

Thanks everyone for your time and help,

Well appreciated !