Mold FAQ’s

Molds are simple, microscopic organisms present everywhere, indoors and outdoors. Molds are fungi and are needed to break down debris in the environment. For molds to grow and reproduce, they need only one organic food source material, such as leaves, wood, paper, and moisture. Molds grow by digesting the organic material; they gradually destroy whatever they grow on. Mold growth on surfaces can often be seen in the form of discoloration frequently green, brown, gray, and black. Molds release countless tiny, lightweight spores, which travel through the air.

Molds will grow and multiply whenever conditions are right; sufficient moisture is available and organic material is present. Be on the lookout in your home for sources of indoor moisture that may lead to mold growth. Some examples are leaky roofs, sprinkler spray hitting the house, overflow of sewer & sink, steam from cooking or hot showers, plumbing leaks, humidifiers, dryer exhausting indoors. Warping floors and discoloration of walls can be indications of moisture problems. Condensation on windows or walls is also an important indication of moisture in your home, though it may be caused by an indoor combustion problem.

Yes, if indoor mold contamination is extensive, it may cause very high airborne spore exposures. People exposed to high spore levels may become sensitized and develop allergies to mold or other health problems. Mold growth can damage your personal contents such as furnishings, carpets, and paintings. In time, unchecked mold growth may cause damage to the structural elements in your home.

Molds produce health effects through inflammation, allergy, or infection. Allergic reactions are most common following mold exposure. Typical symptoms that mold-exposed people report include: Nasal and sinus congestion; Dry, hacking cough; Nose or throat irritation; Respiratory problems such as difficulty breathing and shortness of breath; Eye irritation; Memory problems; headaches; mood swings; nosebleeds, body aches, and fevers are reported occasionally in mold cases, but their cause is not understood.

Exposure to mold is not healthy for anyone in a contaminated area. Therefore, it is always best to identify and correct high moisture conditions quickly before mold grows and health problems develop. Some people may have more severe symptoms or become ill more rapidly than others. Infants and young children, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems, and people with respiratory problems such as allergies, asthma, or chemical sensitivity are especially susceptible.

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An interior French drain is a drainage system installed inside your basement along the perimeter walls to collect and redirect water away from your home.

The system channels water from the walls and floor into a sump pump basin, which then pumps the water out and away from the house.

Installation typically takes 1-2 days, depending on the size of the basement and the complexity of the job.

Our team works efficiently to minimize disruption. We take care to protect your belongings and clean up thoroughly after the installation is complete.

When properly installed, an interior French drain is highly effective in preventing basement flooding and managing water intrusion.

A sump pump is a device installed in a basement or crawlspace to pump out water that accumulates in a sump basin, preventing flooding and water damage.

When water in the sump basin reaches a certain level, the sump pump activates and pumps the water out of your home through a discharge pipe.

A sump pump is essential for homes prone to flooding or with high water tables, as it helps keep your basement dry and protects your foundation from water damage.

Installation typically takes a few hours, but the exact time may vary depending on your specific requirements and the complexity of the job.

Regular maintenance includes checking the pump’s operation, cleaning the sump basin, testing the float switch, and ensuring the discharge pipe is clear.

A backup battery sump pump ensures your home remains protected during power outages or primary pump failures. This additional layer of protection is crucial during heavy storms when power loss is more likely, ensuring continuous operation and preventing potential flooding.

The backup system activates automatically if the primary pump fails or during a power outage, using a rechargeable battery to power the pump and keep your basement dry.

We recommend testing your backup battery sump pump every few months and after any significant storm or power outage to ensure it is functioning correctly. If you are using our Pure Wifi Sump Pump System, the sump pump will automatically test itself and allow you to view the status of both your primary and backup sump pumps, the battery itself, and water level from an app on your mobile device.

The duration depends on the battery’s capacity and the pump’s usage, but most systems can last for several hours to a few days during continuous operation. It’s essential to choose a high-quality battery for maximum reliability.

Basement waterproofing involves techniques and materials used to prevent water from entering your basement, keeping it dry and safe.

We use a combination of membranes, sealants, drainage systems, sump pumps, and more.

Our waterproofing solutions can last many years, often decades, providing long-term protection for your home.

While some minor issues can be addressed by homeowners, professional waterproofing ensures a comprehensive and lasting solution, preventing future problems.

Common signs include water stains, dampness, mold growth, musty odors, and visible water intrusion.

Mold testing identifies the presence and type of mold in your home, which is crucial for ensuring a healthy living environment and addressing potential health risks.

We take air and surface samples from various parts of your home and analyze them in a laboratory to determine mold levels and types.

The testing process, including sample collection and lab analysis, typically takes 3-5 days.

If mold is detected, we provide a detailed report and recommendations for mold remediation to safely remove it and prevent future growth.

Yes, it is recommended to ensure the property is free from mold-related issues before the purchasing or sale of a property.

Mold remediation is the process of removing and cleaning mold-contaminated areas to restore a healthy environment and prevent future mold growth.

Signs you may need mold remediation include visible mold growth, musty odors, and symptoms of mold exposure like allergies or respiratory issues.

Our process includes an initial assessment, containment of affected areas, removal of moldy materials, cleaning and disinfecting, air scrubbing, and preventing future mold growth.

The duration varies depending on the extent of the mold problem. Most projects are completed within a few days.

Yes, we use industry-standard practices and safety measures to ensure the remediation process is safe for you and your family.

In most cases, you can stay in your home, but it depends on the severity of the mold and the areas being treated. We will advise you based on your specific situation.

To prevent mold from returning, we recommend controlling moisture levels, using dehumidifiers, fixing leaks and groundwater intrusion promptly, and ensuring proper ventilation in your home.

Crawlspace encapsulation involves sealing your crawlspace with a vapor barrier and insulation to prevent moisture, mold, and pests from entering.

Benefits include improved air quality, energy efficiency, reduced moisture and mold growth, and increased home value.

The process usually takes 1-3 days, depending on the size and condition of the crawlspace.

Yes, encapsulation helps regulate temperature and humidity, leading to lower energy costs and a more comfortable home.

Absolutely. The long-term benefits, including a healthier living environment and lower energy bills, make it a valuable investment.

Signs include cracks in walls or floors, doors and windows that stick, uneven floors, and gaps around window frames or exterior doors.

We use various methods, including underpinning, wall stabilization, and crack injection, depending on the specific issue.

The duration depends on the severity of the problem and the chosen repair method. Most projects are completed within a week.

Coverage varies by policy. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to determine if foundation repair is included.

The cost depends on the extent of the damage and the repair method. We provide a detailed estimate after a thorough inspection of your property.