MOLD typically results from flooding. Mold remediation involves using EPA approved chemicals, removing gross contaminaion, and using air scrubbers to return the structure to a standard that exceeds the air quality prior to the mold contamination.
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How can I tell if there is mold in my home?
Some mold problems are obvious – you will see it growing. You can also look for areas that are consistently wet, or have been wet due to flooding, leaky plumbing or roofing areas of high humidity (bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens).
Other mold problems are not so obvious. If you do not have any visible mold but your home has a damp, musty smell or visible water stains, mold can be growing in areas you cannot see, such as in wall cavities or the ductwork of a heating/cooling system.
You can have someone come and do a visual for mold but you should have it tested.
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How did the mold get into my house?
Mold is everywhere and isn’t uncommon to find in a home. It can enter the house through pen doorways, windows, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. Spores in the air outside attach themselves to people and animals, bringing mold indoors. Once the spores are inside, if the land on places where there is excessive moisture, they will grow.
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Is the mold making me sick?
We at MELAWIL are not medical professionals. If you suspect mold in your home to be a problem to your health, seek medical attention for diagnosis.
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Where does mold grow?
Mold will grow in places where any leakage may have occurred, such as roofs, pipes, walls, plant pots or where there has been flood damage. Many building materials can encourage mold growth once they get wet. Wet cellulose materials, like paper and paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, wood and wood products are all conducive to mold growth. Many building materials can support mold growth once water is introduced.
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What kind of mold is in my house? Is it toxic mold?
Mold cannot be identified by sight and there are thousands of species of mold. My job is the first step, which is to collect samples and have them analyzed by a laboratory, then the lab can let you and your adjustor know if there’s any cause for concern.
There are toxic molds, but all of them aren't. Mold does not affect everyone the same way. With five people in one residence, only one could be affected adversely by the mold.
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Will bleach and water kill mold growing up my walls?
Bleach and water will not kill mold past the walls surface. You have to remediate because mold is live and grows beneath the walls.
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How can I stop mold from growing in my home?
- Look for visible signs of mold growth and signs of excessive moisture or water damage (water leaks, standing water, water stains, and condensation problems). The earlier the problem is detected, the better – mold activity can begin as soon as 24 hours after water loss.
- Such areas with noticeable moldy or musty odors.
- Search behind and underneath materials (carpet and pad, wallpaper, vinyl flooring, sink cabinets), furniture, pictures or stored items (especially things placed near outside walls or on cold floors).
- Check around air handling units for stagnant water. Keep those units serviced with regular cleaning of ducts and air filters.
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