The Importance of Stucco Repair
Stucco Repair Philadelphia is an important step to maintaining the integrity of your home. Cracks, mold, and other damage should be repaired promptly to prevent further deterioration and costly repairs.
Cover adjacent surfaces with plastic sheeting (windows, doors, trim, plants) to avoid accidental splatters during stucco. Use a roller or brush to apply an even, thin coat. Allow to dry as directed.
Stucco is a popular exterior finish for homes, offering beauty and durability. However, stucco can be prone to cracking and damage over time, as with any building material. This can detract from a home’s aesthetic and potentially compromise its structural integrity. Fortunately, many stucco repair issues can be resolved with a few simple steps.
To begin the stucco repair process, it is important to properly clean any damaged areas. This will help to ensure that the new stucco adheres properly and that any remaining moisture is able to drain away. In addition, cleaning the area will help to ensure that any mold and mildew is removed, as this can significantly reduce the life of the new stucco.
Once the area has been properly cleaned, it is essential to cover any exposed lath with a layer of grade D building paper. This will provide a barrier against any remaining moisture and help to prevent the degradation of the metal lath or mesh that supports the stucco.
Finally, it is important to protect any surrounding areas with plastic sheeting, including windows, doors, trim and plants. This will help to prevent accidental splatters from the stucco mix and other repair materials from damaging these areas.
For small cracks and holes, it is important to fill them in with a proper stucco patching material. This can be done by using a trowel to carefully press the patching material into the damaged area. This should be done in 1/4″ layers until the area is fully bonded and flush with the existing surface. Once the patching has been completed, it is important to allow it to dry for the recommended amount of time as indicated on the stucco patch instructions.
Curing
Stucco is a resilient material that can be an attractive and durable addition to your home. But like any other material, it needs regular maintenance to keep it in good condition and ensure that it lasts a long time. If you notice cracks in your stucco, it’s important to get them repaired as soon as possible. Otherwise, water can enter the cracks and cause significant damage to your wall.
Regular inspections will also allow you to catch any problems before they become severe. This can help prevent expensive repairs and save you money in the long run. To check for damage, examine the entire surface of your stucco walls and look for any areas that appear damp. In some cases, this may be a sign of a problem with your gutters or downspouts. It is also possible that your sprinkler system could be spraying water directly onto the stucco.
Depending on the condition of your stucco, you may need to perform some minor or major repairs. In either case, it’s a good idea to call in a professional who can inspect the stucco and inform you of whether the damage can be repaired or if a replacement is necessary.
Once you’ve inspected the area, you’ll need to clean and prep the crack for repairs. Start by using a wire brush to remove loose debris, dirt, dust or mold/mildew. Once the crack is cleaned, it should be rinsed with clean water to prevent any contamination from damaging your new repair. If you’re using a pre-mixed stucco patch, follow the recommended dry time on the label. If you’re using a dry mix, begin by adding less water than you think you’ll need, then gradually add more until the desired consistency is achieved. Doing this will prevent creating a mix that’s too watery, which can weaken the stucco and reduce adherence.
Second Layer
This step is crucial in ensuring that the crack repair and subsequent layers adhere properly. It involves thoroughly cleaning the crack and surrounding surface using a wire brush to remove loose stucco, dirt, debris, and any other material that could interfere with adhesion. This may seem like a small detail, but it is vital to ensure that the bonding agent and repair compound adhere correctly. Skipping this step can result in a weak repair that will not hold up over time.
When the scratch coat has had sufficient time to cure, the next layer can be applied. This layer is known as the brown coat and is a mix of sand and cement. It is generally about 3/8 to 1/2 inch thick and serves to provide a base for the finish coat and level out any irregularities in the scratch coat. It is also important that this layer be allowed to cure properly, as well.
After the brown coat has been allowed to cure, it can be textured to match the existing stucco. It is usually a stippled texture that creates the unique look of stucco. This can be done while the mixture is still slightly wet. Once the final layer has set, it can be painted if needed.
While it is possible to handle minor repairs with stucco yourself, it is important that professional assistance is sought for any significant damage or large cracks. A professional will be able to complete a thorough inspection and make the appropriate repairs, leaving you with a sturdy home exterior. In addition, a professional can ensure that the work is done correctly and will last for years to come.
Texturing
A good stucco repair requires a lot of attention to detail, especially the texture. Matching the color and texture of the surrounding stucco is crucial to a seamless, enduring finish. A fresh coat of paint also offers protection against weather elements and other environmental risks.
A quality stucco repair begins with a thorough inspection of the area to identify the source of the problem. This can range from thin hairline cracks to larger fissures that require more significant patching. Look for yellow or brown discoloration, which can indicate moisture damage. White, powdery residue known as efflorescence is another sign of water infiltration. A physical test can be helpful, too: Gently tap the stucco surface with a rubber mallet. A hollow sound suggests that the stucco has separated from the lath support.
In cases of extensive damage, a professional contractor may be needed to address the cause of the cracking. This could involve adding expansion joints, installing a weep screed, or reinforcing the wall to prevent future damage.
Once the underlying problems have been addressed, the patching process can begin. First, a scratch coat is applied to the damaged area. This layer should be about 3/8-inch thick and smoothed out with a trowel. The scratch coat will need to cure for 24-48 hours. It can be helped along by periodically misting the wall with water to encourage a more uniform drying process.
Once the scratch coat is cured, a brown coat is then applied. This layer is also roughly 3/8-inch thick and should be evenly applied and smoothed with a trowel. The brown coat will need to cure for 24-48 hours, too, as it will eventually be covered by a finish coat.
Painting
When stucco gets damaged it often requires repairs before the surface can be painted. Unfortunately, many homeowners and contractors make the mistake of just filling in and painting over these cracks, thinking that they are covering a cosmetic flaw rather than an indication of serious water damage. In reality, they could be covering dangerous leaks that will eventually lead to mold and rot in the underlying structure of the home.
Instead of painting over these cracks, we recommend hiring a professional to properly repair them and then re-coat the walls with high-quality paint. There are several different types of exterior paints available for stucco, each with its own level of weather resistance. The best choice is elastomeric paint, which creates a rubber barrier that protects against moisture intrusion and can bridge hairline cracks. This type of paint is a great option for homes in humid areas like NYC because it will not blister or peel as easily as other paints.
Prior to any repainting, the surface should be thoroughly cleaned to remove dust, dirt, mildew, and debris. This can be done with a pressure washer or by hand using a brush and detergent solution. Once the stucco is clean and dry, a primer designed for stucco can be applied to enhance paint adhesion.
This step is important because it helps the paint to adhere better to the bumpy surface of the stucco, ensuring that it lasts longer than it would with a lower-quality primer. This primer also seals the porous stucco to help prevent moisture from seeping through and damaging it again. After the priming has dried, it is time to apply your chosen paint color.
The Benefits of Air Duct Cleaning
If you have noticed a lot of dust, higher energy bills, or unpleasant odors, you may need to have your home’s air ducts cleaned. This service helps improve indoor air quality, reduce allergies and asthma symptoms, and extend the life of your HVAC system.
During the cleaning process, your technician will vacuum all return vents and supply vents in each room. Contact Air Duct Cleaning Utah now
Over time, dust gathers on surfaces throughout your home. It can come from outside or get pushed into your house by people and pets moving around. Then, as the indoor air circulates, it picks up and carries that dust along with pet dander, mildew, bacteria, chemicals, tobacco smoke, and other pollutants to clog your heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system’s ductwork. This clogged system forces dirty air to recirculate through your home five to seven times a day. It’s a fact: dirty ducts are one of the leading causes of allergies and other respiratory problems.
The good news is that routine cleaning removes dust and dander from your ductwork, helping you breathe easier and reducing the frequency of allergy attacks. It also keeps your furnace cleaner and extends its life by reducing wear on the equipment.
During the air duct cleaning process, a compressed air system blows loose dust and debris from all the accessible parts of your home’s ductwork. Then, the debris is collected in a vacuum bag or sucked through a special nozzle at the end of a hose attached to the compressed air system. If you plan to do your own duct cleaning, make sure you have the following supplies:
Protective Gear – Eye protection and a dust mask are essentials, especially if your ducts contain asbestos. Vacuum – Make sure the one you use has a hose with a nozzle attachment to reach into your ducts. Brush – A toilet brush or a large paintbrush works well. Screwdriver – You will need this to remove the vent covers, clean them, and open and close your supply registers. Paper Towels – Keep them nearby to wipe down escaping dust and cover other supply register openings while working.
Duct cleaning may also include a disinfecting treatment, which will remove mold and mildew growth that’scausing a musty smell. However, it’s important to note that no studies have shown that duct cleaning alone can prevent health problems like respiratory illnesses. Other conditions often cause dirty ducts and must be corrected before cleaning, or the problem will likely recur.
Dirt
Dust, dirt, pet dander, mildew, mold spores, and other particulates collect inside air ducts over time. If left unchecked, this material can clog filters or escape the ducts and circulate throughout homes’ living spaces. This contaminates indoor air and can cause respiratory complications like sneezing, coughing, or a runny nose. Regular cleaning eliminates these contaminants from circulating in the home’s living space.
Dirty ducts often lead to a musty odor that emanates from air vents when the furnace or AC runs. It’s also important to have a professional clean the ductwork if you’ve recently had construction or remodeling work done on your house. Even when contractors follow best practices and close off work areas, dust can still infiltrate the ductwork and circulate throughout the house.
The standard methods used for duct cleaning are usually a combination of sweeping, brushing and vacuuming. If you’re hiring a professional to perform the service be sure to check their credentials and references. They should be licensed and insured for your protection. They should also be able to answer any questions you may have about the cleaning process.
Avoid companies that advertise “$99 whole house specials” or other misleading marketing gimmicks. These contractors are usually inexperienced and unlicensed, and their work is likely to be substandard.
Before a technician begins working in your home, be sure to show them where the air vents are and let them know about any objects that might be in their way. It’s also helpful to give the technician a tour of the house and point out any areas that might be difficult to reach or clean, such as attics or crawl spaces.
Be sure to ask about the method of cleaning and whether or not they use a power-washing machine. A high-pressure power-washing machine can damage the lining of your ventilation system and actually create more dust than it removes. Most reputable cleaning companies use a more gentle approach that involves a hand-held hose that is attached to an air compressor. This hose sucks up dust and debris from the interior walls of your ductwork, and then is vacuumed away by a powerful industrial-grade vacuum cleaner.
Allergens
Allergies are your immune system’s reaction to substances that it deems a threat. This can result in a laundry list of symptoms that include itchy eyes, a runny nose, sneezing and congestion. Allergens can be found in a number of places in the home, including dust mites, mold and pet dander. Dirty air ducts can become breeding grounds for these allergens, with the blowing of heated or cooled air spreading them throughout your home. In homes with pets, this can be especially problematic.
Allergens can be difficult to avoid, even with diligent housekeeping. However, cleaning your ducts will greatly improve your indoor air quality and reduce allergy warning signs.
The problem is that many people don’t realize that their ductwork is often the source of a host of unpleasant allergies, rashes and other health problems. Regardless of how well you clean your living spaces, the dust that accumulates in your ductwork can trigger allergic reactions when it is circulated by your heating and cooling systems.
In addition to dust mites, unclean ductwork can harbor mold and mildew spores. When the humidity is high, these fungi can grow and release airborne spores that can cause respiratory irritation and other allergies. Homes with pets may face additional issues as a result of pet dander that can gather in ducts, contributing to itchy eyes and other allergic symptoms.
The best way to combat the buildup of allergens in your ductwork is to have them cleaned regularly by professional technicians. In addition, it’s a good idea to vacuum frequently using a pet friendly filter. This will prevent the spread of dander from one part of the house to another.
Smoke
Smoking is an unfortunate part of life that affects the health and cleanliness of homes. Whether it’s from a neighbor or your own family, smokers tend to pollute their houses with secondhand smoke. The continuous re-circulation of ETS (electrolytes and tars) leaves a sticky residue in air ducts, making them harder to clean. In addition, it exposes your family to a host of contaminants like mold spores, bacteria and pet dander. It also leads to the development of dark brown or yellow stains on a variety of home surfaces.
Smoke particles latch onto all surfaces, including drywall and carpets. Even if your air ducts are cleaned, these odors can linger on furniture, carpets, walls and ceilings. These lingering odors can make your home smell musty and unpleasant, despite the use of air fresheners or opening windows.
Air duct cleaning professionals often apply an odor-eating chemical called an oxidizer after the cleaning process. This helps to remove odors that are caused by the breakdown of chemicals in smoke. It is important to note that this step is an additional service and is not included in the basic price of the cleaning.
If you live in a multi-unit home with interconnected air vents, your neighbors’ smoking may have an impact on the quality of your indoor air as well. Residual fumes from a previous resident can make its way into your ventilation system, creating a dangerous situation for all homeowners.
For homeowners who are dealing with a severe odor problem, it’s important to talk with the cleaning contractor about their experience in handling these cases. A reputable cleaning company will have years of experience in handling difficult problems and will be able to provide you with the best solution for your unique situation.
Aside from foreign particulates, air duct cleaning will not clean away smoke damage or smoke odors from other surfaces in your home. If you have a child’s bed, bookshelf or other furniture that is directly under an air vent, it’s best to move these items before your technician arrives. It is also a good idea to tell your technician about sensitive areas in your home that you would like them to avoid or pay special attention to.
Cabinet Refinishing Basics
Cabinet Refinishing Modesto Anchor is a great way to update your kitchen without the cost and hassle of a major remodel. It is best for cabinets with existing doors and drawer fronts that are in good condition, but need a fresh new finish.
Refinishing does have limitations, however. If you want to change the door style or wood species, it would be better to reface your cabinets.
The first step in cabinet refinishing is cleaning. If your cabinets are dirty, any products used on them won’t perform well, and they may even cause damage to the original surface. Dirt acts like a barrier, keeping other products from bonding with the surface they’re applied to. This causes layers of products to fail and can lead to peeling, chipping, or flaking.
Once the surface is clean, any damages can be fixed with wood fillers made specifically for furniture. These can be found at hardware or home improvement stores, and they’re easy to use. Just follow the instructions on the product packaging. Once these have dried, sand the repaired areas to remove any bumps or roughness. This helps to prepare the cabinet for paint, and sanding is also required before staining to create a smooth, even finish.
Before starting the refinishing process, make sure you have plenty of room in your kitchen to work. Move any items away from the cabinets to prevent accidents and to protect surfaces that won’t be getting painted. You should also clear a path from where the professionals will be working to where they need to go next so they can easily bring in equipment. It’s also a good idea to keep pets and children away from the work area, especially when using chemicals that can be toxic if inhaled.
If you’re refinishing your cabinets to lighten their color, be sure to use a high-quality latex primer that is designed for wood surfaces. Then, once the primer dries, you can begin painting. If your cabinets have a rail that butts into a stile, for example, you should paint the rail first and then overlap onto the stile before it dries. This ensures that both surfaces are painted evenly and with the same color.
Cleaning
Cabinet refinishing is an excellent way to add a fresh new look to your kitchen. It’s also a great way to repair minor damage or wear and tear, such as scratches, chips, or dents. Refinishing is also an eco-conscious option, avoiding the need for waste disposal and reducing the environmental impact of landfills.
The most important step in any cabinet refinishing project is cleaning the cabinets to ensure that your new finish adheres properly. Use a degreaser, such as trisodium phosphate (TSP), to remove stubborn grease. Be sure to apply the cleaner sparingly and always wear gloves. It can irritate skin and eyes, so it’s important to take precautionary measures when using it.
TSP emulsifies and cuts through grease, which makes it highly effective at eliminating it from the surfaces of your cabinets. However, it’s important to test any cleaner in an inconspicuous area before applying it to the whole surface. Moisture trapped in the wood can cause problems with paint adhesion, so it’s essential to remove all traces of grease and dirt from your cabinets before moving on.
Home renovation projects can be disruptive to your daily routines, especially when they occur in areas such as the kitchen. Fortunately, cabinet refinishing is much less disruptive than replacement, allowing you to continue using your kitchen during the entire process.
Refinishing your cabinets can give you a wide range of color and style options to suit your tastes and match the look of your home. In addition, it’s a cost-effective alternative to replacing your cabinets and can boost your home’s value. This means that you can easily earn back the money that you invested in this unique renovation service.
Primer
The right primer is a game-changer in how well your cabinets hold up to wear and tear and moisture. Whether you’re going with a subtle color refresh or a dramatic change, the right primer will help your paint job turn out just the way you envisioned it.
If you’re refinishing wood cabinets, use an oil-based stain and odor blocking primer, such as KILZ 3 Premium Primer. This primer dries quickly and offers excellent adhesion, which will make your topcoat stick well. It also seals and suppresses stains and mildew, which is especially important in high-moisture, humidity environments like kitchens.
Alternatively, you can use a water-based primer, such as Rust-Oleum Shellac Foundation Primer. This water-based primer is also easy to work with, dries quickly and produces only a minimal odor. It also helps protect surfaces from scuffing and provides an excellent base for your new paint.
You can even opt for a primer that works on all surfaces, including laminate and previously painted surfaces. A bonding primer, such as INSL-X STIX Waterborne Bonding Primer, can be used on wood and laminate and dries in 30 minutes. It also reduces the need for sanding and makes it easier to get smooth, even coverage.
If you’re painting over a dark cabinet color, consider using a tinted primer. This will prevent the darker cabinet color from showing through your final paint coat.
Paint or Stain
Both stain and paint can preserve, decorate, and protect a surface. However, each offers its own unique advantages and disadvantages for certain types of projects.
A stain is a liquid substance applied to wood that colors it. Stains can be opaque, semi-translucent, or transparent, which allows for the natural beauty of the wood to show through. Stains are often chosen for their ability to withstand changing weather conditions and require less maintenance than painted surfaces.
On the other hand, painted cabinets require more frequent touch-ups and may chip easily if exposed to heavy amounts of moisture. They also tend to fade over time, especially if they are in direct sunlight. Luckily, it’s simple to repaint cabinets with high-quality cabinet paint.
While painting can be cheaper than stain, it’s important to use a high-quality product that will last. Poor-quality paint will chip quickly and can leave a mess behind once it dries. It’s also important to invest in a high-quality sprayer and a wide variety of furniture refinishing tools.
Staining can be more expensive than painting, depending on the quality of the products used. Using a high-quality staining product will help ensure a smooth finish and minimize sanding between coats. It’s also crucial to choose a color that will stand up to fading and other environmental factors.
If your kitchen cabinets are in good condition, refinishing them may be the best option for you. Keep in mind, though, that refacing is a more extensive project that requires removing the existing doors, hinges, and handles, as well as sanding down the interior and exterior of your cabinets. While it’s possible to reface your cabinets with new hardware, you’ll have to repaint them later to match the rest of your home.
Finish
When your cabinet doors and drawer fronts are ready for paint or stain, it’s important to use a primer. This will help extend the longevity of your new finish and ensure that it adheres properly to the surface. There are a variety of different types of paints available, including latex and oil-based options. It’s also important to choose a quality finish that can stand up to moisture and heavy use.
The final step in a cabinet refinishing project is to apply several coats of the selected stain or paint, sanding each coat lightly between each application. This process can take up to a week, and it’s important to keep air circulating during this time to help the stain dry faster. When the stain or paint is fully cured, you can reattach any hardware and hang your cabinets back up.
Refinishing is a great option for those who want to change the color of their existing cabinet doors and drawer fronts without the expense of completely replacing them. However, this process is not suitable for all types of cabinetry. For example, refinishing won’t work on cabinets made of laminate or thermofoil since they cannot be sanded or chemically stripped. Additionally, refinishing will only provide a limited amount of visual improvement, and pre-existing damage may be evident once the cabinet surfaces are refinished. If you’re interested in a more dramatic cabinet transformation, consider refacing instead.
The Importance of Mold Inspection
Mold growth is almost always the result of water damage or a moisture problem. Test results give a snapshot estimate, but spotting growth and doing a thorough visual inspection is the best way to determine the scope of the problem.
Air testing costs more than swab samples but provides valuable data that helps pros develop an effective remediation plan. Contact Ace Mold now!
When mold spores land on damp surfaces, they multiply quickly and can set the stage for a full-blown infestation. Visible growth indicates that mold spores have found a favorable environment, and early detection can mean less damage and lower remediation costs.
In addition to visual inspection, inspectors often collect environmental samples that provide insight into the type and quantity of fungi in an area. Samples may be taken using various methods, including swabs or tape lifts on surfaces like paint, wood, and wallpaper. Air sampling is also frequently performed, with a specialized pump or cassette used to collect samples for analysis in a lab. These tests can help inspectors determine the level of contamination in the air and identify hidden sources.
Another way to reduce the risk of future problems is by finding and repairing existing issues that promote mold growth, such as water leaks and intrusion. Inspecting for clues like moisture stains on walls or ceilings, drywall that crumbles easily, and paint or wallpaper peeling can help identify problems that should be addressed.
If you discover visible mold, it’s important to clean the area immediately. Nonporous surfaces such as metals, glass, hard plastics, and concrete can usually be cleaned with detergent or soap and water. Porous materials such as fabrics, wood, drywall, and insulation should be removed and discarded if they’re contaminated.
Symptoms of a mold problem can include respiratory issues, allergic reactions, itchy skin, and eye discomfort. Exposure to mold can be particularly dangerous for individuals with allergies, asthma, or compromised immune systems. Regular mold inspections can help you identify and address any problems before they affect the health and safety of your occupants. It’s best to notify occupants about the upcoming inspection, so they can make arrangements to remove items that might be in the way and ensure unobstructed access to the area being tested. This is important to allow the inspector to get an accurate picture of the mold situation in the space.
Health Issues
Molds release spores into the air, and if these spores become inhaled, they can trigger health problems. The extent of these effects depends on how much spores are inhaled, what kind of molds are present, and the individual’s susceptibility. Molds can also contain toxins, and exposure can increase the risk of serious illness from various kinds of cancer, respiratory ailments, and other conditions.
Detecting a mold problem early can mitigate the risk of these health issues, and save money on remediation costs. A professional can conduct a visual inspection and take humidity and temperature readings, as well as test surfaces for water intrusion. A mold inspector can also recommend remediation services if necessary.
Mold inspections are particularly useful for empty homes and commercial properties, as well as rental units. The presence of musty odors, moisture intrusion through the roof or plumbing leaks, and other signs can indicate the existence of mold growth. Having an inspector perform a visual inspection and take mold readings can give property owners peace of mind, protect them from liability claims, and help them avoid costly repairs if they decide to purchase the property.
It is important to remember that a mold inspection is not a substitute for a thorough building inspection. An experienced investigator should evaluate whether mold testing is needed at all, as it can be misleading if used alone. In many cases, mold testing can miss areas of the property where mold is growing and can mislead occupants as to how bad the situation really is.
In most cases, it is more important to focus energy and resources on removing existing mold growth and fixing the cause of the moisture problems rather than trying to determine what kind of molds are in a particular home or business. Mold tests can be a useful tool for evaluating the presence of mold in an environment, but are never a substitute for a full inspection.
It is important to prepare for a mold inspection by closing all doors and windows 48 hours prior to the appointment. It is also a good idea to shut off humidifiers, dehumidifiers, and air purification machines for 24 hours prior to the inspection. This will help stabilize indoor air conditions and make it easier for the inspector to identify mold spores.
Insurance Claims
Mold damage is one of the most challenging homeowners insurance claims to make. There are often fine lines in your policy and even State laws that must be taken into consideration. To help speed up the insurance process, it’s best to hire a public adjuster specializing in this type of claim. They can provide documentation and evidence that helps maximize your compensation.
Toxic molds such as fusarium and penicillium can cause a variety of health issues, from localized infections in the nails or cornea to brain abscesses. These toxic molds are rare, but they can be found in homes. If they’re detected, inspectors may charge an extra $100 to $150 for a separate inspection and remediation process.
Most insurance companies consider the presence of mold to be a sign of ongoing issues rather than a sudden problem, which is why it’s important to contact your insurer as soon as you notice the first signs of damage. You’ll also want to take steps to protect your belongings and limit damage, such as turning off water flow to the damaged area and running a dehumidifier.
It’s important to keep in mind that mold damage is typically covered by your home insurance, but your coverage may be subject to specific exclusions. For example, many policies exclude mold damage caused by neglect or failure to maintain the property. This is why it’s so important to regularly clean and inspect your home and to promptly address any problems, such as leaks, that might cause mold growth.
Mold inspections can be expensive, but they’re an essential part of a healthy home. It’s possible to save money on an inspection by comparing quotes from multiple inspectors and by choosing a time when the weather is milder. It’s also wise to research each company you’re considering to find out whether they have the proper training and experience, as well as licensing and certifications. A good place to start is InterNACHI’s directory of certified and licensed inspectors.
Remediation
If a home or building has significant mold growth, the affected areas must be contained and the mold spores must be killed. This is an expensive and time consuming process, but it is the only way to eliminate mold and prevent its return. A certified mold inspector can assess the problem and recommend a remediation company. During the remediation, it is critical to follow strict guidelines for cleanup and air quality to avoid recurrent mold problems.
Mold spores need moisture to grow, so the key to stopping mold is keeping surfaces dry. This means cleaning up spills, repairing leaks, and making sure bathrooms and kitchens vent properly. During a mold inspection, an expert can also check the property for potential sources of moisture in the basement, attic and other hard-to-reach spaces. He or she can use thermal imaging and hygrometers to test these areas for humidity levels.
A good inspector will also note if there is a history of floods, leaks or sprays that did not get dry quickly, as these are all breeding grounds for mold. He or she may also check for discolored surfaces and a musty or earthy odor. Moldy odors are particularly noticeable in bathrooms, basements, attics and kitchens because they can be absorbed through the walls and into the air.
In the initial stage of remediation, professionals will use an EPA-approved biocide to kill mold spores and prevent them from spreading. They will also wipe down surfaces with a commercial-grade antimicrobial spray. On porous items, such as wooden wall studs and carpeting, they will clean the surface and vacuum the underlying material.
They will also close off and seal all doors and windows to keep spores from migrating to other parts of the house or building. They will then install plastic sheeting over a containment area to prevent mold from spreading in other places, and they will cover all HVAC supply and return vents in that space with polyethylene sheets.
It is important for homeowners to find a qualified, licensed mold remediation contractor with extensive experience and a reputation for excellent customer service. A search of online reviews and Better Business Bureau ratings should help find a suitable company. It is also a good idea to gather estimates from several companies before choosing one to ensure that the costs are within budget.