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How To Identify Mold: Homeowners Guide to Maintaining a Healthy Indoor Environment

How To Identify Mold: Homeowners Guide to Maintaining a Healthy Indoor Environment

Jun 5, 2023 | Mold Remediation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Major Topics of this Article Include

  • How To Identify Mold

  • What To Do If You Have Mold

  • What To Avoid With Mold

Homeowners Guide To Mold Safety

Maintaining a healthy indoor environment is essential for our well-being, and one significant aspect to consider is the presence of mold.

Mold can lead to various health issues and compromise the structural integrity of buildings. To ensure a mold-free environment, it is crucial to be able to identify its presence promptly. This essay will provide a comprehensive guide on:

  • how to identify mold
  • discussing visual cues
  • odor detection
  • signs of water damage
  • monitoring humidity levels
  • recognizing health symptoms
  • the importance of professional inspections
  • the use of DIY mold testing kits
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Visual Inspection

Visual inspection is one of the primary methods to identify mold. Mold growth is often visible on surfaces, appearing as:

  • Discoloration
  • Spots
  • Fuzzy Growth

Check areas prone to moisture, such as:

  • Bathrooms
  • Kitchens
  • Basements
  • Areas affected by leaks or flooding

Look for black, green, brown, white, or gray spots on walls, ceilings, floors, windowsills, and other surfaces. Pay attention to areas with condensation or visible water damage. Keep in mind that mold can also grow behind walls or in hidden areas, so a thorough examination is necessary.

Musty Odor

Mold has a distinct musty odor that can be a helpful indicator of its presence. If you notice a persistent, earthy smell in a particular area, it could signify mold growth. This odor is often more noticeable in enclosed spaces or rooms with poor ventilation.

  • Be cautious of any area that emits a musty smell, especially if other visual signs of mold growth are not immediately apparent.

Water Damage

Mold thrives in areas with excessive moisture. Look for signs of water damage, as they often indicate a favorable environment for mold growth. Signs of water damage include:

  • Stains on walls or ceilings
  • Peeling paint or wallpaper
  • Warped surfaces
  • Separated baseboards
  • Mold Growth

Pay attention to areas near plumbing fixtures, windows, roofs, or areas that have experienced leaks or flooding in the past. These are prime locations for mold development.

Humidity and Condensation

High humidity levels contribute to mold growth. Regularly monitor the humidity in your home or office using a hygrometer. The ideal indoor humidity range is between 30% and 50%.

If  humidity is consistently above 60%, it creates an environment conducive to mold growth. High humidity can often be controlled by:

  • Using dehumidifiers
  • Improving ventilation
  • Repairing water leaks

Additionally, check for condensation on windows, pipes, or other cold surfaces, as it may indicate excessive moisture.

Allergic Reactions and Health Symptoms

Mold exposure can cause a range of health symptoms, particularly in individuals with allergies or respiratory sensitivities. Common symptoms include:

  • Sneezing
  • Coughing
  • Itchy Eyes
  • Nasal Congestion
  • Throat irritation
  • Worsened Asthma Symptoms

If you or others in your vicinity experience these symptoms that improve when away from a certain location, it could indicate mold exposure. However, it is essential to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other factors, so a proper medical diagnosis is recommended.

Professional Mold Inspections

If you suspect mold but are unable to locate it or need a thorough assessment, it is advisable to hire a professional mold inspector. These experts possess the necessary training, experience, and equipment to conduct a comprehensive inspection. 3 benefits to professional mold inspections are:

  1. They can identify the extent and type of mold present.
  2. Determine the root cause of moisture issues.
  3. Provide recommendations for remediation.

DIY Mold Testing Kits

Mold testing kits are available for purchase and can help you collect samples for analysis. These kits often involve swabbing or collecting air samples from the suspected mold-infested area. However, keep in mind that DIY kits may not provide as accurate results as professional testing.

How To Identify Mold?

If you identify mold in your surroundings, it’s important to address the issue promptly. Depending on the extent of the mold growth, you may need to hire a professional mold remediation service to safely remove the mold and mitigate the underlying moisture or water issues that caused it. Mold can have various appearances depending on the type and stage of growth.

Here are some common characteristics and visual descriptions of mold:

COLOR: Mold can appear in different colors, including black, green, brown, white, gray, or even orange and pink. The color can vary based on the specific mold species and the surface it is growing on.

TEXTURE: Mold can have different textures, ranging from fuzzy and cotton-like to slimy and wet. The texture depends on the moisture level and the type of material the mold is growing on.

DISCOLORATION: Mold often causes discoloration on surfaces. You may notice patches, spots, or streaks that are darker or lighter than the surrounding area. Discoloration can be an indication of mold growth.

IRREGULAR GROWTH PATTERNS: Mold can spread in irregular patterns. It may appear as clusters of spots or form larger patches. The growth pattern may be asymmetrical or have a fuzzy, uneven edge.

SURFACE GROWTH: Mold can cause visible changes on the surface it is growing on. It may create a powdery appearance, leave stains, or cause deterioration of the material. Some molds can also produce a velvety or shiny appearance.

MOISTURE ACCUMLATION: Mold often thrives in areas with moisture or water damage. You may notice dampness, water stains, or a presence of excessive condensation in areas where mold is likely to grow.

It is important to note that mold can sometimes be difficult to visually identify, especially when it is growing behind walls, in hidden areas, or in small quantities. If you suspect mold but cannot visually confirm it, professional mold testing and inspection may be necessary for accurate identification. Additionally, the presence of a musty odor or any associated health symptoms can also be indicators of mold growth, even if it is not visually apparent.

 

What To Do If You Have Mold?

Step 1. Confirm the Presence of Mold

If you notice visual signs of mold growth, such as discoloration or patches, or detect a musty odor in a particular area, it’s likely that you have a mold problem. Confirm your suspicions by conducting a thorough inspection and, if necessary, consider professional mold testing for a more accurate assessment.

Step 2. Assess the Extent of the Issue

Determine the size and scope of the mold problem. Is it limited to a small area or does it appear widespread? Assessing the extent of the issue will help you determine whether you can handle the remediation yourself or if you need to seek professional assistance.

Step 3. Address the Source of Moisture

Mold requires moisture to grow and thrive. Identify and address the source of moisture that is promoting mold growth. This could include fixing plumbing leaks, repairing roof or window leaks, improving ventilation, or addressing condensation issues. Resolving the moisture problem is crucial to prevent further mold growth.

Step 4 Implement Safety Precautions

Mold can release spores that can be harmful when inhaled or come into contact with skin. Before you start the cleanup process, take appropriate safety precautions. Wear protective clothing (gloves, goggles, and a mask rated for mold), ventilate the area well, and consider isolating the affected area with plastic sheeting to prevent the spread of mold spores.

Step 5 Clean Up and Remove Mold

Small-scale mold problems can often be remediated by homeowners. Use appropriate cleaning solutions specifically designed for mold removal. Scrub the affected surfaces thoroughly, ensuring you remove all visible mold. Dispose of any contaminated materials properly. Be cautious not to disturb the mold and release spores into the air during the cleaning process.

Step 6 Consider Professional Remediation

If the mold problem is extensive, covering a large area, or if you have underlying health conditions, it’s best to seek professional mold remediation services. Professional remediation ensures a thorough and safe removal of mold, proper disposal of contaminated materials, and the implementation of preventive measures to prevent future mold growth.

Step 7 Prevent Future Mold Growth

After addressing the current mold problem, take preventive measures to avoid recurrence. This includes maintaining proper ventilation, controlling humidity levels, fixing any water leaks promptly, and regularly inspecting areas prone to moisture. Consider using mold-resistant paints or materials in areas susceptible to mold growth.

Step 8 Monitor and Maintain

Regularly monitor the previously affected area and other areas in your home or office for any signs of new mold growth. Promptly address any moisture issues or signs of mold to prevent a recurrence.

Remember, if you have concerns about your health or if the mold problem is extensive and difficult to handle, it is always advisable to consult with professionals who specialize in mold remediation to ensure a safe and effective resolution.

What Not To Do About Mold?

When you suspect the presence of mold in your home there are certain actions you should avoid to prevent further contamination and protect your health. Here are some things you should NOT do if you think you have mold:

1. Do Not Ignore the Problem

Ignoring the presence of mold or delaying its remediation can worsen the issue. Mold can spread rapidly and cause further damage to your property and potential health risks. Take immediate action to address the problem rather than ignoring it or hoping it will go away on its own.

2. Disturbing Mold Without Proper Precautions

Avoid disturbing mold growth without taking appropriate safety precautions. When mold is disturbed, it releases spores into the air, which can worsen the contamination and lead to respiratory issues. Do not touch or scrub the mold without wearing protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and a mask rated for mold.

3. Using Ineffective Cleaning Methods

Common household cleaning products may not be sufficient for mold removal. Do not rely solely on bleach or other conventional cleaners, as they may not effectively eliminate mold or prevent its regrowth. Instead, use specialized mold removal products specifically designed for this purpose or consult with professionals for appropriate remediation techniques.

4. Neglecting to Address the Source of Moisture

Mold thrives in damp environments. If you only focus on removing visible mold without addressing the underlying moisture problem, the mold is likely to return. Avoid neglecting the source of moisture, such as leaks, condensation, or humidity issues. Fixing the moisture problem is essential to prevent mold recurrence.

5. Attempting DIY Remediation for Extensive Mold Growth

While you can handle small-scale mold problems, extensive mold growth requires professional remediation. Trying to tackle a large mold infestation without the necessary expertise and equipment can be hazardous. Improper handling of a severe mold problem can lead to further contamination, spreading mold spores throughout the property.

6. Neglecting Safety Precautions

Mold can cause health issues, especially when disturbed or handled improperly. Avoid neglecting safety precautions. Always wear protective clothing, including gloves, goggles, and a mask rated for mold removal, to prevent direct contact with mold spores and inhalation of airborne particles.

7. Failing to Seek Professional Help when Necessary

If you have underlying health conditions, extensive mold growth, or if you are unsure about the severity of the problem, it is best to seek professional assistance. Professional mold remediation services have the expertise, experience, and equipment to handle complex situations safely and effectively.

Remember, mold remediation is a task that should be approached with caution and knowledge. When in doubt, consult with professionals who specialize in mold removal to ensure a thorough and safe resolution of the problem.

 

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How Plumbing Leaks cause Water Damage and Mold

How Plumbing Leaks cause Water Damage and Mold

May 14, 2023 | Mold Remediation, Plumbing

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Facts About Plumbing Leaks and Mold

  • A plumbing leak will cause mold

  • Structural Drying is needed for most plumbing leaks

  • Plumbing CAN be covered by insurance

How plumbing leaks cause water damage and mold?

Homeowners know that a small leak does not automatically equate to water damage, but homeowners are not so clear on how long it takes for a small leak to grow into mold or water damage problem.

A water leak can cause mold growth in as little as 24 hours. Likewise, it may also take a homeowner years to discover mold contamination.

  • Time and Germ levels are the major variables of how plumbing leaks cause water damage and mold.

3 Facts plumbers should know about mold:

  1. Where there is a leak there is mold.
  2. There is microscopic, so if you can see if, there is a problem.
  3. Mold growth indicates water damage and the need for mitigation.

Homeowner Tip #1

Prevent the need to kill mold by keeping your home clean and dry. Routine cleaning and maintenance are the best ways to keep your home or office mold free. Maintaining free air flow circulation is the next major recommendation. Air flow prevents mold from settling to grow. A clean, dry, well-ventilated room is least likely to grow mold.

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How often do plumbers find mold or water damage?

Less than 15% of plumbing service calls are in response to water damage or flood in progress. On the other hand, over 90% of water damage and mold is plumbing related.

Structural drying and the application of antimicrobial should be standard with any leak service plumbing invoice. Uneducated plumbers fail to make these recommendations mold as standard mold prevention, costing their customers thousands of dollars within two years.

  • Bathroom Vanity Mold Prevention Structural Drying = $500

  • Bathroom Mold Remediation = $2500

Signs of Mold Growth

Only the best plumbers will be committed to educating themselves on how mold remediation and water damage go hand in hand.

The more a plumber understands about water damage and mold, the more value a plumber can provide to their customers.

Plumbers should always be on the lookout for mold because whenever there is a leak mold will grow.

This is why Mold Metrix seeks to work with and educate plumbers. Together, plumbers and water damage mitigation professionals can effectively prevent mold growth and save customers money.

  • Odors

  • High Humidity

  • High Moisture Levels

  • Poor Air Circulation

Should plumbers inspect for mold?

Plumbers do not inspect for mold. When you call a plumber, their primary focus is:

1.Finding a plumbing leak

2. Repairing a plumbing leak

Plumbing leak detection is the professional service required when filing a water damage mitigation claim. A proper plumbers’ report will define the source of a water leak.

If a leak happens suddenly or accidentally, there is a 50% chance that the plumbers’ invoice can be reimbursed by insurance.

Plumbers do not bill insurance companies as standard operating procedure. Therefore, most customers and plumbers alike do not know how get to plumbing covered by homeowners’ insurance.

Plumbers Serving Northern Virginia

Fortunately, Mold Metrix works with some of the best plumbers in Northern Virginia. Smooth Plumbing is one of our preferred plumbing partners. The owner is a licensed master plumber in the state of Virginia and provides a one stop shop for mitigation plumbing services. We highly recommend Smooth plumbing for your plumbing needs located.

Smooth Plumbing strives to bring value to their customers, not only with excellent plumbing service, but by going above and beyond by educating their plumbing staff about mold and water damage.

 

This reflects the Mold Metrix mission which is to move our customer from stress to satisfaction.

  • We believe that when a customer knows more about their mold mitigation and plumbing issues, they can better deal with the natural stress of these projects.
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Smooth Plumbing and Gas

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Are plumbers liable for spreading mold contamination?

Many times, homeowners have remodeling plans and at some point in the process they discover mold. One example is replacing cabinets. Removing old cabinets is highly likely to uncover hidden mold growth. This is what happened with a plumbing partner who was called out for a kitchen remodel in Alexandria.

Any Contractor Can Be Held Liable For Mold Cross Contamination

The previous homeowner had several leaks that caused significant water damage, now there was visible mold growth. Smooth Plumbing was able to recognize that mold was growing downstairs on the overhead joist system. Mold Metrix later discovered mold growth behind the kitchen walls and under the vinyl floors.

 

Most common areas plumbers discover mold:

  • Kitchens
  • Bathrooms
  • Laundry Rooms
  • Unfinished Ceilings with Plumbing and Water Lines

Plumbing and Mold Safety

When a plumber is able to recognize mold and water damage they become more valuable to their customer. Customer become eligible to receive a FREE onsite mold and water damage inspection when referred by a plumber in the Metrix Connection.

Onsite estimates for mold removal are not free; however, when our plumbing partners refer mold jobs customers win. Whenever mold is involved, safety must come first. Working with the plumber allows us to safely coordinate all aspects of a mold removal or water mitigation project. Having a clearly defined remediation protocol is the first step:

  • Proper

  • Preparation

  • Prevents

  • Poor

  • Performance

If your or someone you know has a plumbing leak and is in need of mold removal choose Metrix over the Matter, because the Power to Change the Matter is in the Metrix.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How To Kill Mold

How To Kill Mold

May 8, 2023 | Mold Remediation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Facts About How To Kill Mold

  • Homeowners should not attempt “do it yourself” mold removal.

  • Mold must be removed, not killed.

  • Mold Growth is a sign of water damage.

  • Mold Removal includes “dry outs” and repairs.

  • Mold Removal can be covered by Homeowners Insurance.

  • Blech and water should not be used to “kill” mold.

How To Kill Mold

The proper way to kill mold is to remove it completely from all affected areas and unsalvable materials. There are some cases where mold can be “killed,” but even these projects include the remediation process.

Step 1. Remove all non-salvageable materials.

Step 2. Preclean effected areas to remove most of the mold contamination.

Step 3. Perform aggressive detailed cleaning.

Step 4. Exfoliate salvageable materials.

Step 5. Perform second detailed cleaning.

Step 6. Apply anti-microbial.

Step 7. Begin structural drying.

Mold Removal Scams

Homeowners are advised to be on the lookout for companies and contractors who advertise mold killing treatments. The following are 4 major red flags of a scamming mold contractor.

1. No IICRC Certification

A mold contractor without proper IICRC certifications is the first major red flag to consider. Some states require no license for mold removal and remediation. Therefore, any cleaning company can offer mold cleanup and removal services. Mold remediation projects should be supervised by an IICRC certified professional. Furthermore, the supervisor should have the ARMT, applied remediation mold technician certification.

2. Fogging To Kill Mold Is A Scam

Some companies mislead homeowners into thinking they can “fog to kill mold” the way one would fog for roaches. Fogging with a mold inhibitor without removing moldy materials is a major violation of standard.

3. No Moldy Materials Removed

What is mold remediation without demo? Beware of any contractor offering to clean the visible mold, spray everything down. Mold growth indicates water damage. Without properly addressing the water damage issue, a mold removal project cannot be successful.

Homeowner Tip #1

Prevent the need to kill mold by keeping your home clean and dry. Routine cleaning and maintenance are the best ways to keep your home or office mold free. Maintaining free air flow circulation is the next major recommendation. Air flow prevents mold from settling to grow. A clean, dry, well-ventilated room is least likely to grow mold.

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Eliminate Mold At The Source

The only way to kill mold is to eliminate it the source.  One hundred percent of the time, mold growth is the result of a plumbing leak or water damage. Mold cannot survive without a water source; this includes high humidity.

Good air circulation is not possible without removing all mold contaminated contents and materials. Effected materials must be removed to prevent the spread and cross contamination of mold. Structural drying is vital to a successful mold remediation and cannot begin until mold contamination has been reduced by 80% or more.

The best way to kill mold to is prevent it from growing.

To recap, when a customer asks “how to kill mold” the correct answer is that we must eliminate it at the source. The objective of mold remediation is not to kill the mold, it is to remove mold from the affected living area. Only after we have removed all mold can structural materials and salvageable items be remediated.

Aggressive Cleaning And Mold Remediation

The IICRC S520 is the mold removal industry standard. This standard requires that all mold removal projects employ an aggressive cleaning method for mold decontamination. Aggressive cleaning includes, but is not limited to, hand powered scrubbing, metal brushing, sanding and sand blasting.

HEPA Extraction And Mold Removal

High-efficiency particulate absorbing vacuums are used to perform detailed cleaning for mold removal projects. After wall cavities and joist systems have been exfoliated, they are then HEPA vacuumed. This process helps to remove mold trapped under the surface of structural materials.

Apply Anti-Mold Agent

Applying the anti-mold agent is the last phase of a mold remediation project. This is what people commonly refer to as “killing the mold.” Anti-microbial de-activates mold spores, while structural drying removing excess water to prevent future mold growth from occurring.

Is Mold Hard To Kill?

1st Remove Moldy Drywall

There is no easy way to kill mold. Mold remediation is a very laborious job. Mold removal projects often include a phase of demolition. During the demolition phase effected drywall is the first finishing material to be removed. Removing wet drywall helps to reduce room humidity and stabilize indoor environments.

2nd Remove Unsalvable Carpet

Demolition is by far the most difficult part of the mold removal process. After the effected drywall has been removed, next up is the carpet and pad. Eliminating unsalvable carpet reduces humidity and improves odors.

3rd Clean and Decontaminate

Mold decontamination cannot begin until the effected materials have been removed. This is when the aggressive cleaning method, HEPA vacuuming, and application of anti-microbial are employed.

4th Structural Drying

Mold remediation is concluded with structural drying. This involves the use of dehumidifiers, air movers, air injectors and heaters.

If you or someone you know is in need of mold removal, choose Metrix over the Matter, because the Power to Change the Matter is in the Metrix.

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What is Mold Contamination?

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What Homeowners Should Know About Mold Inspections

What Homeowners Should Know About Mold Inspections

May 7, 2023 | Mold Remediation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Major Topics of this Article Include

  • Mold Inspection Standards

  • Purpose of a Mold Inspection

  • Types of Mold Inspections

  • Mold Testing

  • Cost of Mold Inspections

Current Mold Inspection Standards

Mold Inspection Standards are based on industry standards defined by The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification.

Additionally, there are at least 5 additional standards used in co-relation to the IICRC standard:

Mold Inspection Restrictions

The results of mold inspections are representative of conditions existing at the exact time and location of where samples were taken only. Therefore, inspectors can not rely on mold inspection reports to represent conditions at any other location or date.

Testing may be required for asbestos, lead paint, and other environmental hazards prior to remediation. The presence of such materials take precedence over mold remediation. Removing regulated materials must be conducted in accordance with federal, state, provincial, local laws, regulations and specific remediation protocols.

The Goal of a Mold Inspection

Unlike a free mold estimate, a mold inspection cannot be conducted virtually and must be conducted onsite. Mold inspections include testing with analysis and a complete report. Reports include, but are not limited to mold damage documentation and remediation cost projections. Service fees include inspection and per sample charges. 

Invasive inspections are more expensive than non-invasive inspections, while fees vary and start at $250. The average mold inspection requires 2-5 samples priced at $50 each. Invasive mold inspections include spaces such as attics and crawlspaces, opening walls, removing baseboards, inspecting HVAC Systems and other hard to reach areas. 

 

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Mold Inspections Are Not Free

Video conferencing allows us to provide immediate insight to our customers about their mold removal projects. Subsequently, customers should expect to receive an initial mold estimate via video chat. As a result, contractors and customers save both time and money by connecting first via video chat. This helps businesses keep costs low, allowing customers to save more money.

Mold Inspections and Testing Disclaimer

1. Do not depend on your mold inspector for any medical advice.

Providing medical advise with regards to personal health concerns about mold contamination is the job of a medical specialist, not the mold inspector.

2. If symptoms such as allergy or asthma are experienced, mold inspection is often the most logical starting point.

However, airborne particles originating from biological sources can result in symptoms or illness as well. 

3. Mold inspection is not intended to report on what the inspector considers to be typical levels of mold.

A mold test is not an environmental investigation for any other condition. Further testing is required for dust mite, roach, pet allergens, virus, bacteria, lead-based paint, asbestos, radon, or any other environmental conditions.

4. Mold Metrix does not offer an opinion as to the advisability of the purchase or sale of property.

Furthermore, Mold Metrix is not responsible for the non-discovery of any water damage or mold contamination for which Metrix has not been contracted to inspect. Likewise, this is also true for any other problems undetected because sampling was not requested and paid for.

INTERIOR MOLD INSPECTION

No destructive or disruptive testing will be performed unless contracted by a client. An inspector will not check any area that poses a safety threat to the inspector such as walking on roofs. Likewise, attics and crawl spaces with low clearance may not be entered.

Correspondingly, customers should understand that inspections can only report on problems present at the time of testing. Inspectors cannot report on areas or locations in the building that have not been specifically inspected and tested.

AIR QUALITY MOLD INSPECTION

Samples of non-active spores only allow for spore identification to the genus and not the species level. Therefore, comparison of levels to similar types of indoor and outdoor spore types is not exact. This is especially true for some small, round spores, such as aspergillus and penicillium spores.

Active spore sampling only allows for identification and categorization of molds that germinated from live spores. Consequently, many dead yet still allergenic spores may be missed in the lab results when using this methodology, resulting in low estimations of the number of actual spores present.

INVASIVE MOLD INSPECTION

Inspectors cannot guarantee mold growing within a wall cavity can be found. Hidden mold may not be producing large numbers of spores during sampling. Also, mold may not have access to the spore trap due to insulation or other blockades.

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Mold Remediation: Bathroom Mold Removal and Plumbing 2023

Mold Remediation: Bathroom Mold Removal and Plumbing 2023

May 1, 2023 | Mold Remediation

Mold Remediation: Bathroom Plumbing and Mold

A customer called me out because they discovered some mold in the ceiling corner of their kitchen pantry.  As I spoke with the customer and listened to the details he was able to provide, I thought to myself there’s a real chance that this may be covered under the homeowner’s insurance policy.  Plumbing leaks causing water damage and mold can be covered by insurance. We were able to schedule an onsite mold inspection for the very same day.

Black Mold Discovered

As an IICRC certified mold and water damage restoration professional I understood stachybotrys aka “black mold” cannot grow without a constant source of water. Stachybotrys is not like aspergillus or penicillium mold, which are able to grow with only elevated humidity. Black mold, however, cannot survive on humidity alone and needs to have a constant source of water to begin its sporulation process.

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Equipped with this knowledge my investigation expanded upstairs into the bathroom to better interpret the source of this water damage. Directly above the kitchen pantry was the master bathroom. There was a large jacuzzi tub, along with a toilet and bidet installed on the far side of the bathroom. The customer reported not using the tub, so we initially estimated that the water damage was caused by failed plumbing associated with the toilet. According to PHP Plumbing, most homeowners do not use there jacuzzi tub on a regular basis, so the customer not using the tub did not seem unusual. I was excited to have discovered the cause of the mold downstairs.

Mold Remediation Documentation

Throughout my mold inspection I was careful to document all water damage. Mold remediation project documentation was very important on this project because there was a big possibility that insurance would cover most of the costs associated with this mold removal project. Once I had created my initial report, I contacted the homeowner’s insurance adjuster. The adjuster was willing to provide coverage if we were able to document a new plumbing leak and prove that the mold growth was not due to a lack of maintenance on the homeowner’s part.

Insurance Accepted, financing Available

Plumber’s Report and Mold Removal

The insurance company wanted to make sure that they were covering a water damage and plumbing failure which could be classified as setting or accidental. Homeowners insurance will not cover mold removal that cannot be directly traced to a new water damage or plumbing leak. This is why a plumber’s report is critical to submitting a claim for mold or water damage coverage, because the plumber’s report states the official cause of water damage and mold.

Metrix Restoration we believe that plumbers and mold removal professionals should work together. This is why we created the Metrix Connection to better network with the best plumbers throughout our service territory.  Being able to co-ordinate mold removal projects with a plumber allows us to add more value and better serve our mold removal customers.  For this project we contacted one of our best plumbing companies in our network, Perfection HVAC and Plumbing of Northern VA.

Mold Remediation Discoveries

Upon removing the wet, mold contaminated drywall from the effected kitchen pantry, I was surprised at what I discovered. There was an obvious plumbing leak coming from above, but it wasn’t obvious where the leak was coming from. We previously estimated the water damage to be the result of failed plumbing associated with the toilet, however, the leak was coming from failed plumbing associated with the bathroom tub.

I was shocked at the amount of mold growth discovered once I removed the tile encasement of the master bathroom tub. Mold was growing all over the sub floor and had even begun to sprout as mushrooms. Mold is a fungus and under the right conditions mold will sprout in mushroom form. There were some mold mushrooms growing on the sub floor four inches high.

Leaky Bathroom Water Pipe

The mold growth mentioned above was being supported by a leaky water supply line. We were able to confirm that the adjacent water supply line had also leaked previously, causing the prior water damage to the kitchen pantry. The plumbing and water leak were previously repaired; however, the water damage was never properly mitigated by the previous homeowner. In addition to the water leak being repaired, the wet water damaged drywall of the kitchen pantry should have also been removed, so that the subfloor could be dried from below and above.

Once we were able to discover and confirm that the prior water damage the prior leak was repaired, we could now prove to the insurance adjuster that this was indeed a new water damage. However, the age of this new leak was still a mystery. What we do know for certain is that the customer reported seeing black mold on the kitchen pantry developing only recently, which supports a plumbing failure which is sudden or accidental and not due to lack of maintenance on the homeowner’s part. However, the presence of four-inch mold mushrooms growing in the same area, indicate severe water damage unaddressed for an extended period of time.

Metrix Offers Water Damage, Plumbing and Mold Remediation

Regardless of the previous water damage, the fact that there is a new leak with a new plumbing issue means that this homeowner is entitled to coverage with their homeowners’ policy. The homeowner’s insurance would be responsible for covering the water damage and mold remediation repairs but would not cover the mold remediation line items associated with the project. The reason being is that obviously there was pre-existing water damage which were never addressed; therefore, homeowners’ insurance is not responsible. However, homeowners’ insurance would be responsible for all damages associated with the new water damage including structural drying, retiling the bathroom tub and drywall repairs associated with the water damage. No portion of the plumbing would be able to be billed back to water damage claim.

If you or someone you know is in need of water damage mitigation, mold remediation or needs a plumbing repair; choose Metrix over the Matter.  The power to change the matter is in the Metrix.  We are available 24/7 for plumbing and water damage emergencies.  We also offer mitigation repairs.

Mold Remediation: Spring Cleaning and Mold Removal 2023

Mold Remediation: Spring Cleaning and Mold Removal 2023

Apr 21, 2023 | Mold Remediation

Mold Remediation and Mold Prevention

There are a lot of tasks that go along with spring cleaning and as the seasons change from winter to spring, people begin switching into “spring cleanup mode”.  One of the projects that you might find in your home is the need for mold remediation and removal.  No homeowner wants to discover mold and we dread needing mold remediation, but what is the best way to prevent mold from developing in the home?  Simply stated, the best way to prevent mold growth in your home or office is to keep everything clean and dry.  This is the number one way to prevent mold from growing in your home.  The ideal humidity for your home is between 30 and 50 really, and if you can keep the humidity within range, you can be sure your indoor environment will not support mold growth.

IICRC S500 and S520 Mold Remediation Standard

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Mold Removal and Air Duct Cleaning

Another tip homeowners can do to help prevent mold growth from occurring in your home is to clean the air ducts.  Included with cleaning the air ducts is changing the air duct filters regularly.  Changing the air duct filters regularly will help to prevent foreign particles, such as mold, from entering the HVAC system.  When mold enters the air duct return lines, it increases the probability of mold growth getting established in the HVAC unit itself.  Installing filters at the return of your HVAC system is a great way to prevent particulates from entering the unit and will help to keep the air ducts clean.  Always remember to change those filters out regularly, not only to keep the air ducts clean and mold free, but also to reduce heating and cooling costs.

The next tip to prevent mold growth as you conduct spring cleaning, especially with regards to preventing mold growth in your home is to install a UV light in the HVAC system.  Not only will this reduce the probability of mold growth, it will also protect the integrity of the indoor air quality of your home or office.  Installing a UV light into the HVAC system will work to maintain clean air by eliminating germs and bacteria that are small enough to go through the filters installed at the returns.  UV light rays would prevent any of those microbial particulates from getting established in your HVAC, assuring that you will have clean air blowing through your HVAC system and into your home.  Installing a UV light is a highly recommended action to help keep your home mold free in 2023.

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Mold Remediation and Plumbing

Another tip to help prevent mold from growing in your home is to check all plumbing and plumbing fixtures.  This includes inspecting underneath the kitchen and bathroom sinks and checking all exposed pipes for signs of water leaks.  Be sure to conduct annual appliance inspections to include items such as washing machines, dish washers, and refrigerators for signs of leaks.  This annual inspection should include all plumbing related appliances and water fixtures. 

Check the hot water heater to make sure that it remains in good working condition and appliance warranty.  Be sure that all its components are squared away, that there are no leaks.  Plumbers also recommend flushing out the water heater annually.  Many plumbers and appliance retailers offer maintenance and warranty programs.  This is why Mold Metrix works with plumbers to provide relief during emergency water damage situations and provide mold remediation to our customers.  If you discover a plumbing emergency while spring cleaning, you can give Mold Metrix a call and we can refer you to a plumber.  The relationship we maintain with our network of plumbers allows us to optimal pricing and arrival times.  Being in position to provide emergency plumbing relief is another reason to choose Mold Metrix over the matter for water damage or mold remediation during your spring cleaning in 2023.

Checks To Prevent Mold Removal

In addition to checking all your appliances, you should also check any output water lines, such as exterior faucets and sump pump maintenance.  Making sure that the sump pump is in good operational order with a functional battery backup system is always a good idea.  Checking the gutters to make sure that the gutters are clean and free of debris is another way to help prevent water damage and the need for motor mediation as you spring clean in 2023.

Mold Remediation and Air Flow

 Another way to help prevent mold remediation is making sure your home has good air flow.  Over time, mold and other foreign particulates will start to settle as “dusting”.   This allows mold growth to get established on cellulose-based materials such as wood furniture, upholstery fabrics, and books.  Abnormal atmospheric conditions will support mold growth and so one way to prevent this is to ensure good circulation throughout the dwelling.  Your HVAC system plays a big part of ensuring this preventative measure.

Mold Removal Cost

How much mold remediation should cost in 2023?  A small mold remediation project can range anywhere from $500 to $2999.  A mid-size mold removal project can range from $3000 to $12,000.  A larger residential mold remediation project can range from $12,000 to $30,000 or more depending on how much is affected, the materials, equipment needed, and the location of the loss.  No matter the variables may exist for your mold remediation project in 2023, rest assured that Mold Metrix is able to meet the challenge.  We provide not only mold remediation for your small, medium, large residential or commercial mold remediation, but we are also able to provide mold remediation repairs.  Mold repairs include drywall finishing, painting, as well as flooring repair services.  If you find yourself in the need for mold remediation in 2023, choose Mold Metrix over the matter, because the power to change the matter is in the Metrix.

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