Remediation includes fixing the water/ moisture problem, and the cleaning, removal and/or replacement of damaged or contaminated materials.

Mold remediation can be an expensive process, so prevention is always the best method for combating mold.
Mold spores are introduced into homes in a variety of ways. Spores are lightweight and can be spread by air currents very easily. The weight of the spore determines how long it may remain airborne. Some mold spores, once airborne, will never settle down to earth.

Mold spores are more dangerous to humans when they are airborne and capable of being ingested or inhaled. Mold spores on the surfaces of materials inside a home have the potential to colonize and spread throughout the area where they landed. Pets may introduce some mold spores.

For example, dogs that go outside attract mold spores to their fur and paws with static electricity. Then they bring the spores into the house where they are deposited and can sit dormant for extended periods of time waiting for the right moment to germinate and begin colonization.

In addition to health problems, mold can cause extensive damage to the physical components inside a house. Mold needs to eat to survive and it will consume whatever substance it is growing on.

Depending upon the severity of the mold damage, structural damage can be an issue. Structural damage can range from wood, ceilings, walls, to crawlspaces and more. It's important for us to think beyond the capabilities of mold. There may not always be structural damage related to mold, but it is essential information if it is a factor. We always consider mold as a strong indication of a structural problem. If this is overlooked, future problems and health issues are very probable. Until the structural damage is repaired, the problem remains.

Structural damage will be analyzed simultaneously with other mold inspection and remediation procedures. Attacking all the potential mold-bearing areas at one time is our best strategy. Structural damage can be damage anywhere in the foundation, 2 x 4’s, etc. The damage caused by structural mold problems and water intrusion could be severe enough to require the replacement of the foundation, or some load bearing Joists.

CORRECTING CONSTRUCTION FLAWS
There is a common saying; An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Mold is no exception to this rule. Homeowners can save substantial amounts of money by waterproofing and eliminating excessive moisture that could potentially lead to big problems like Stachybotrys (black mold) infestation.

FIX WATER LEAKS
Water leaks can lead to mold infestation very quickly, so it is crucial to fix any pipes that may be leaking and correct any drainage problems.

REMOVE CARPET FROM BATHROOMS
Carpeted bathrooms are often plagued by mold problems because the carpet traps moisture from the shower, sink and humidity in the air and provides the ideal conditions for mold growth.

FIX EXHAUST FANS IN KITCHENS & BATHROOMS
Without exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms, there is often nowhere for moisture in the air to escape to. This moisture tends to encourage mold to spread in these poorly ventilated areas such as behind shower walls, near appliances, and on ceilings.

CHECK FOUNDATION
Mold can also significantly weaken the construction of a home. It is important to make sure no wood siding is touching the ground and that the foundation of the house is not permitting mold to attack components of the home's construction from the ground.

WHERE TO LOOK FOR MOLD