What Signs of Mold Damage Should Fort Lee Homeowners Be on the Lookout For?

3/20/2023 (Permalink)

Mold damage was discovered and remediated by SERVPRO AMRT technicians in this Fort Lee home.

SERVPRO Techs Support Fort Lee with Mold Remediation Services

Since New Jersey has frigid winters, many people assume that mold is a three-season problem in the Fort Lee area. However, mold grows and spreads within a structure any time of year. If the temperatures indoors are comfortable for the residents, it is probably in the range of sustainable temps for a mold colony residing behind a wall or underneath a floor.

There are some signs that mold damage signals its presence in a Fort Lee home. SERVPRO has many tips for property owners to keep in mind to identify the need for a mold remediation service before the problem spreads throughout the house.

Slow, Unseen Water Leaks Often Harbor Mold Growth

Small leaks that remain unrepaired and are allowed to continue can create the perfect environment for mold damage to occur. Places in the home most likely to have this issue are:

• Supply lines to appliances such as dishwashers and refrigerators
• Radiators and boiler units
• Under sinks in kitchens and bathrooms

How Does SERVPRO Identify Where Mold Damage Resides?

SERVPRO techs have a large inventory of equipment that is especially good at targeting the moisture behind walls such as moisture detection tools, and infrared cameras. With these devices, the techs can map out where high moisture conditions exist without opening portions of the wall. This straightforward method of scoping a property allows our Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians (AMRT) to pinpoint areas most likely needing drying and mold remediation. To confirm visually, a SERVPRO team member may drill small holes to confirm the presence of a mold infestation. The mold colonies can spread behind the walls and baseboards, under the flooring of all types, and underneath the wallpaper. 

Condensation on Windows and Plumbing Can Be a Warning Sign

Poor ventilation can lead to frequent condensation buildup on windows and nearby pipes. This area can become a central location for mold damage to set up a home base. One of the most common areas of mold infestation occurs in bathrooms with exhaust fans that either operate poorly or have a blockage in the duct to port away moist air after a steamy bath or shower.

Attics, Basements, and Crawlspaces Can Have Mold Damage

A slow leak in an attic, damp basement, and a crawlspace that takes on water with every rainstorm or snowmelt can all create a place that harbors mold damage. The techs use their equipment to bring down interior humidity levels to unsustainable levels for mold and remove the dried matter. Followed up by proactive treatments to inhibit the return of the infestation. SERVPRO technicians can perform temporary repairs during mold remediation services and recommend actions post-mitigation such as:

• Environmental monitoring of plumbing for leaks
• Installation of dehumidification units in basements
• Encapsulation in crawlspaces

SERVPRO of Fort Lee at (201) 496-6024 is available for Fort Lee property owners that need mold damage mitigation. Our skilled technicians are available 24/7 for any size remediation required.