What to do if I have a water occurrence?
Stop the leak whether it is a plumbing leak or a water intrusion from the outside, the first course of action is to cut off the water source. In the case of a flood, after making sure that people and pets are safe cut off the electricity in the infected area. Once the water source is resolved you are racing against the clock to dry out the area. Mold will usually begin to infect the area after 48 – 72 hours.
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How do I know I have mold?
Mold can be found in several places in the home environment. It appears most often in moist or wet areas. A musty odor may also be present. Mold begins to grow indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are wet or damp. Mold will not grow without water or moisture. Therefore, it is important to dry out wet or moist areas within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth.
Some examples of places where mold can be found inside the home include:
- Basements, kitchens (bottom of fridge), around bathroom vanities, washer/dryer area.
- The underside of carpets and pads.
- Surface of walls behind furniture (where condensation forms)
- Ceilings and the top side of ceiling tiles.
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Should I have my home inspected?
Due to the growing concerns of mold in the home and the affects on health, Mold inspections are becoming a common practice. You should not buy a home or live in a home with mold. A mold inspection is your first line of defense! <<< Back to Top
What is involved in a mold inspection?
A general mold inspection begins with a visual inspection of a home to determine if you have mold or the potential for mold growth in the future.
Mold inspections can include the following:
- Evaluate existing mold in the home.
- Investigate environmental conditions causing mold to grow.
- Identify moisture intrusion for mold.
- Identify problem areas of possible mold intrusion/contamination.
- Provide digital photos of problem areas.
- Provide report to include the following; areas inspected, findings, lab results, potential and problem areas, assessment of existing mold, general recommendations and preventative maintenance.
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What if I see mold?
Mold is merely a symptom of a problem. The real problem is excessive moisture. <<< Back to Top
What if I can't find the cause of excessive moisture?
Ensign uses special instruments such as, moisture meters, thermal imaging camera to locate causes of excess moisture. <<< Back to Top
How do I treat the mold?
Some minor conditions may be treated without calling a professional. But in most cases professionals should be called. Proper containment is required. The professional should be trained, certified, insured to handle contaminated materials as well as properly contain the contaminated area to prevent mold from spreading. <<< Back to Top
What does mold need to grow?
Mold requires moisture or water and a substrate or surface to grow on. High humidity, typically more then 65% may also provide an ample source of moisture for mold growth. Substrates such as wood, wallboard, ceiling tiles, carpet, wallpaper, paneling and leather items are favorite breeding grounds. Basically any cellulose or porous material will do. <<< Back to Top
Does mold spread?
Surface molds spread by eating everything they come in contact with. When surface molds are disturbed they produce mold spores, which become airborne. Airborne mold spores are (similar to seeds), they reproduce more spores. Another requirement for mold to grow is moisture, although some mold species can obtain that moisture from moist air when the relative humidity is above 65%. <<< Back to Top
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