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MOLD Vs YOUR
HOME
UNWANTED WATER INTRUSIONS
AND/OR EXCESSIVE MOISTURE WILL LEAD TO TOXIC
MOLD COLONIZATION AND ULTIMATELY INDOOR AIR AND
MOLD SPORE CONTAMINATION.
Problem 1 -
CHIMNEY - Water can enter through cracks at the top,
and through the sides of the chimney, as well as where the chimney
meets the roof. Normal cracking, deteriorated mortar and poor
flashing, are the primary points where moisture intrusions can
occur. Moisture may be entering undetected; inside walls and running
under flooring. Sometimes this type of intrusion is subtle and
accumulates small amounts of moisture and subsequent mold that
accumulates over time.
Solution - Full examination by a reputable and licensed
chimney/fireplace contractor is recommended. Periodical
visual examinations are necessary. Keep all exterior surfaces
completely sealed, stucco cracking
included.
Problem 2
- ROOF - leaks are a primary source of water
intrusions. Deteriorated or improperly installed roofing
materials/shingles, ridge caps, and/or flashings, can allow water
penetrations in numerous areas, including vent pipes, valleys,
sky-lights etc. Flat roofs can allow moisture in through poor joint
seals, pooling and improperly maintained parapet caps etc. Any
appliance that is attached to a roof, if not properly mounted, will
leak at the attachment if not properly installed and maintained.
Solution - Older, and inadequately installed roofing is
always suspect of leaks. Periodical inspections will reveal
deterioration and potential failure of roofing. Waiting until a leak
begins is risking mold colonization. Reputable roofing contractors
will inspect and repair, if necessary, and will usually issue a
warranty.
Problem 3 -
GUTTERING - Guttering that is full
of debris can cause damming and backing up of water (turning to ice
in winter), potentially allowing penetration of water at edges of
roofing and into attic attic and/or down inside walls and on to
floors etc. Downspouts that drain directly next to the foundation
can contribute to perimeter foundation water
intrusions.
Solution - Guttering must
be kept clear 12 months
a year.
Debris causes overflowing and pooling, then in winter climates ice
will form. Downspouts ideally should drain into a drainage system,
or at least 4 feet away from the foundation.
Problem 4 -
EXTERIOR WALLS - Water and excessive moisture can intrude through
the smallest of cracks in siding, caulking and seals around windows
and doors, at siding joints, mortar joints, stucco cracks etc.
Shaded and densely landscaped sections of exterior, promote high
moisture and humidity that promote mold
colonization.
Solution -
The entire perimeter of the subject
property should always remain exposed and well ventilated.
Foliage should be trimmed back so that open space exists
between the foliage and the structure. The more sun that can
reach the structure the better. All eave vents and gable vents
should be kept unobstructed. Caulking and grout should be
periodically inspected and kept well sealed on all
surfaces, including wood, brick and stucco.
Problem 5 -
FOUNDATION, BASEMENT OR SUB-FLOOR AREA - Water
penetrations through plumbing leaks and, perimeter intrusions from
foundation cracks and seepage, and clothes dryers that vent into a
sub-floor areas, are some of the most common areas for water
collection, moisture and humidity concentration and related MOLD
colonization.
Solution -
Problem 6- EXTERIOR
PERIMETER GRADING - Proper landscaping is essential to prevent water
from entering the perimeter of the structure. The yard should slope
away at least 5 feet from the foundation, preventing water pooling
next to the foundation. Many structures have planters and shrubs
around the perimeter much too close to the foundation where watering
creates substantial moisture issues.
Solution -
Problem 7 - INTERIOR LIVING AREAS - Visual
inspection can reveal moisture intrusion within the living areas,
stains, blistering or water damage on the interior perimeter walls
and ceilings, and around the chimney/fireplace as illustrated in #1
and #2. Closed off rooms and closets, especially those with little
to no ventilation, also those that are in a damp portion of the
residence and/or adjoin walls with plumbing, are typical areas ideal
MOLD growth.
Solution -
Problem 8 - CARPET is
one of the most overlooked culprits for MOLD contamination. If the
carpeting has EVER been shampooed, or wet for any reason, it likely
contains a significant mold condition. It creates a perfect breeding
ground for MOLD, as well as ideal habitat for animal dander and
other allergens.
Solution
-
Problem 9 -
KITCHEN - Like the bathrooms, laundry rooms or any room that
has water and water drain lines, if plumbing leaks or poor
ventilation exists, MOLD problems begin. Refrigerators and freezers
and their ventilation systems, as well as, dishwashers and ice maker
connections, are all areas of concern.
Solution
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Problem 10 - BATHROOMS - In many
indoor environments, the bathroom is a primary source of moisture
and related MOLD contamination. Created by "lifestyle" habits, like
showering without turning on a fan or opening a window...to plumbing
leaks of all varieties, both visible and masked (inside or outside
walls). Including, leaking under and behind walls at tubs and
showers, from poor plumbing or insufficient water seals
(deteriorated grout/caulk seals) at tile and linoleum, loose and
leaking toilets, deteriorated and damaged Fiberglas tub and shower
enclosures, poor ventilation, and more.
Solution -
Problem 9
- INTERIOR APPLIANCES - Forced-air furnaces and air conditioners are
a well known culprit for MOLD contamination issues. Cold air
returns, duct work, vents, ventilation are all areas of concern.
From 1980 to 1994, asthma increased in our
pre-school children by 160 % and in our general population by 75% in
the same time period. We learn more each day about those things that
impact our lives, such as toxic molds, bacteria, dust mites,
cockroach droppings, and many other contaminates that can
contaminate almost any portion of our homes and/or businesses, but
there is one area that spreads contamination quickly. That area is
the “lungs” of our home, the heating and cooling system in your home
and work environment! Although we consume only three (3) quarts of
water each day on average, but we consume fifteen thousand (15,000)
to twenty thousand (20,000) quarts of air each day. You would think
we would do our best to keep that air clean . . . wouldn’t
you? That is what makes “duct-cleaning” so important!
. Clothes dryers that vent into the
interior or into a sub-floor area.
Solution -
Request further
information:
info@THEMOLDINSPECTOR.com
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