The Importance of Mold Inspections in Humid Climates
Mold develops when spores land on wet surfaces and multiply. Rooms constantly exposed to moisture, such as attics, basements, or crawl spaces, are some vulnerable building areas. Without proper treatment, symptoms could arise from poor indoor air quality, such as coughing, skin irritation, or wheezing.
The Tri-State Area of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware is susceptible to mold growth, as we experience regular rainfall and humid weather in spring and summer. Here, Dry Tech Waterproofing Solutions, a provider of professional mold remediation and inspection services, explains the reasons for having a mold inspection at least twice a year.
Conditions that Mold Thrives In
Moisture and heat are key ingredients for mold growth, with the best temperature for its production between 77 and 86°F. Even when the atmosphere isn’t that warm, mold can still pose a threat. Locations near a large body of water, such as the Atlantic Ocean, which also receive high rainfall totals, can be the ultimate breeding grounds for mold to fester. These conditions all come together as temperatures rise and rain increases in spring and summer.
Other reasons to watch out for mold development during these seasons are:
- Outdoor mold concerns: In warm weather, mold spores in the atmosphere can more easily access buildings through open doors and windows.
- Increased moisture in soil: As ice and snow melt thanks to higher temperatures, mold has optimal growing conditions as water presses against building foundations.
- Structural vulnerability: Damage sustained to an attic, basement, or crawl space over one or several winters can create open spaces that moisture can penetrate.
Attempting to remove mold improperly poses a health risk, which is why the best way to handle it is to seek professional help through mold remediation services. The size of an impacted area, the problem’s source, and accessibility to the site can all impact how long it takes a contractor to treat an issue.
What Takes Place During a Mold Inspection?
At Dry Tech Waterproofing Solutions, we will assess your structure’s vulnerability to mold development through a professional inspection. During a mold inspection, we look for the following signs of mold:
- Bubbling, cracking, or peeling paint
- Damp or musty smells
- Foundation damage
- Spots within insulation or walls
The Dry Tech Waterproofing Solutions team is familiar with the common molds that grow in our service areas and how best to treat the problems they can cause. The typical phases of one of these evaluations include:
- Primary discussion: We’ll discuss any issues you’re experiencing, such as water damage, plumbing problems, and any recent property alterations.
- Visual review: An inspector will carefully check the impacted area, looking for common indicators of mold or leaks. They may also measure the humidity level or use a moisture detector.
- Treatment of issues: Upon your approval, we can remedy your mold issue as soon as possible, taking actions such as:
- Finding the moisture source causing mold growth
- Following proper protocols for removal
- Cleaning the area with the appropriate products and adequate ventilation
- Determining any necessary repairs due to mold damage
Proper Drainage and Basement Waterproofing to Limit Mold Growth
Additional ways to prevent mold development include basement waterproofing and proper drainage. At Dry Tech Waterproofing Solutions, our crews perform several different services to help keep the amount of moisture entering an attic, basement, or crawl space as low as possible. By taking advantage of a free estimate, you can see the extent of an issue and what it will take to correct it properly. The solutions we offer to help prevent mold formation include:
- Basement crack repair: By reinforcing basement walls, water has a more challenging time entering a foundation, helping to prevent mold growth.
- Crawl space encapsulation and repair: Since water can easily pass through open areas in these spaces, it’s important to make them properly sealed.
- Exterior and interior basement waterproofing: Placing a protective coating outside a foundation can help prevent water from entering it.
- Foundation repair: Property owners must address problems with this central aspect of a structure’s integrity. In addition to fixing cracks, we also provide foundation stabilization and foundation parging
- Sump pump installation, maintenance, repair, and replacement: This device can keep water from a foundation or push it away to drain appropriately.
By using the best materials and technology in our work, we’ve developed a strong reputation among our customers in PA, NJ, and DE. Our lifetime warranty further shows our commitment to providing you with high-caliber service. We also offer zero percent financing to those who qualify. Contact us today to learn more about a mold inspection or to schedule your free estimate.
