Often we get a call when mold is found in an attic by a building inspector, electrician, or plumber. If the owner waits to address the issue until they are ready to sell, the delay can cost them more money in remediation because mold waits for no man - it spreads where and when the temperatures and humidity are just right.
Locate where the mold is growing:
- Sheathing boards and plywood covering the roof framing
- Insulation rolled and blown in
Identify what is causing moisture intrusion:
- Leak from roof, chimney or flashing
- Wet wood construction
- Improper exhaust ventilation in bathroom, laundry and kitchen
- soffit ventilation is blocked
- no gable or ridge vents
Steps to remove and remediate mold:
- A Mold Certified Inspector will identify the species and investigate if the mold is affecting air quality within the living or working environment.
- A Certified Mold Restoration crew will remediate and restore the area according to state code.
When is mold removal necessary?
Mold remediation in the attic is necessary if it affects the buildings structural integrity, and when the air quality in the living quarters is compromised causing health issues for those living or working in the building.
Determine if the mold is wet or dry:
- Is the area affected by mold spores wet, or could it get wet from any form of water intrusion or improper ventilation and humidity?
- Is the mold dry and completely encapsulated or sealed off from any type of future moisture?
Identify if the mold is closed off or compromising the interior:
- Is the mold, insulation, and wood dry?
- Is the interior rooms sealed off from the attic with drywall, or
- Is the interior ceiling open beam, or does it have compromised skylights, suspended or drop ceilings, or any air vents to the attic?
- Is anyone in the building complaining of odor or asthma symptoms?
Preparing to sell or buy a building:
- Mold will need to be removed to keep a sale from failing
Why is mold returning after restoration?
- Unfortunately, flood extraction and water damage restoration companies send uneducated employees to do the work. If you notice mold growing or returning in an area that was remediated most likely they were not certified.
- The contractor did not remove the mold infected materials they covered over them.
- When the mold was removed, the area was not abated properly (plastic sheeting containment) spreading mold spores.
- They treated the mold with bleach which feeds the mold, it does not kill it. In time, the mold grows back.
CERTIFIED mold remediators and inspectors are educated and trained to remove mold and treat the affected area to keep mold from returning.
What can Accurate Mold Testing do to help?
- We can empower you with knowledge in how to clean, remove, and treat the mold infected areas.
- We can recommend a personally trained and trusted Micro Certified Restoration company.