Newtown Square, PA, Damage Restoration Professionals Provide Mold Remediation for Basements

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: The IICRC-certified technicians at SERVPRO of Media remediate basement mold growth in Newtown Square, PA, homes and businesses.

For nearly thirty years, the team of professionals at SERVPRO of Media, PA, has been providing property damage restoration services, including mold remediation services. They have the training, experience, cutting-edge equipment, advanced cleaning techniques, and EPA-approved products to tackle any type or size mold problem.

Basic Facts About Mold Growth in the Basement

Mold is everywhere. It is impossible to achieve 100% elimination of mold in the home. The key is to reduce moisture and dampness and remove or minimize any food sources.

Consider the following mold facts: “Mold can grow anywhere it can find oxygen, moisture, and organic material, and it’s particularly happy in damp, humid areas of the home — so it’s no surprise that mold in the basement is a common problem for homeowners. Basement mold is often the result of a source of moisture — leaky foundations or condensation from appliances are typical culprits. One of the first steps in the prevention of basement mold is to ensure that your basement is free of any moisture and doesn’t support a damp, humid environment where mold can thrive.”

Mold in the Basement

Dark and slimy mold in the basement is smelly and unsightly. Like a chameleon, mold can color shift from green to black or gray. The presence of mold in the basement or anywhere in the home may signal a moisture problem or water intrusion. If neglected or ignored, a moisture problem can cause extensive damage. Procrastination on the part of the homeowner to deal with the problem may result in a denial of an insurance claim to repair the damage.

A knowledge of the causes of mold growth in the basement empowers the homeowner to halt or prevent mold growth, saving money on remediation and expensive repairs. Here are some of the most common causes of mold growth in the basement.

1. Plumbing Problems

The basement often contains many plumbing touchpoints such as pipes, drains, and faucets for a variety of home systems. A detailed inventory of the basement yields many potential sources of water, moisture, and elevated humidity.

• Toilets (supply lines, tank leaks/condensation, overflows, and backups)
• Tub and shower overflows and leaks
• Sinks and faucets (supply line leaks, drain backups/leaks)
• Washing machines (tub and pump leaks, supply line breaks, drain blockages)
• Dryer

Any water release or inadequate drainage provides the moisture mold needs to get a foothold and thrive in the basement.

2. Wood and Fabrics

Mold requires organic matter for food. Flooring, framing in the walls and ceiling, and furniture are mold favorites. The fabric in clothing, bedding, upholstered furniture, and drapes is porous and absorbs moisture, making it a prime target for mold.

3. HVAC Ductwork

HVAC ductwork is a prime location for mold growth, given the moisture in the moist air being pushed through the system. The condensate drip pan is a breeding ground for mold and should be inspected and cleaned annually. Condensation on the exterior and interior of the HVAC ducts adds moisture into the basement ecosystem, accelerating mold growth.

4. Inadequate Ventilation

Poor ventilation contributes to mold growth in the basement. Restricted airflow elevates the moisture and humidity in the basement environment, which is a recipe for a mold explosion. Signs of poor air circulation include:

• Strong, lingering odors
• Discolored, dull flooring
• Glass surfaces (windows, mirrors, tabletops) that have a frosted appearance
• Rust stains on metallic pipes

Enhanced air ventilation reduces the moisture and humidity mold spores need to survive and thrive.

5. Exterior Flooding

Heavy rain and melting snow can oversaturate the soil around the foundation of a home, causing water to seep into the basement or crawl space. The influx may be so great that the basement waterproofing system and sump pump are overwhelmed.

Cracks in the foundation can compound the problem. Mold may grow in the space between walls and the foundation. A mold inspection can detect any hidden mold growing behind drywall. A technician can drill a hole in the wall and insert a tool that tests for mold.

Why Choose SERVPRO for Mold Remediation

If not quickly treated, a minor mold problem can rapidly expand into a major infestation. Highly trained and IICRC-certified technicians arrive within an hour after the initial contact to begin the mold removal process. This rapid response interrupts the progress of mold damage, lessens additional damage, and reduces the expense of the remediation project.

For more information about services offered in Newtown Square, PA, and nearby areas, contact SERVPRO of Media by phone at (610) 566-5720 or by email at office@SERVPROmedia.com