The sight of mold can evoke a deep dread in any homeowner, along with a slew questions about the extent of the infestation, the damage caused, and how to remedy the situation. Public health experts frequently warn of mold’s ability to induce allergic reactions and respiratory symptoms. Still, the mold’s effects on the health of your home can prove less straightforward. As in public health, prevention is the name of the game, and winning saves money and future headaches. When mold does appear, homeowners should understand the risks it poses. This article lays out the threats mold does (and does not) pose to your structure and the reasons for the importance of mold remediation.
The short answer to the question of mold and structural damage is that mold can technically eat through building materials, but does so extremely rarely. Importantly, mold can serve as a harbinger for its more troubling sibling in the fungus family, dry rot. Scientifically known as S. lacrymans, dry rot works more quickly and destructively to colonize and degrade wood fibers. Dry rot often accompanies mold given their shared need for damp, wet conditions and organic materials to consume. Understanding the conditions that enable fungal growth can allow homeowners to both take proactive steps to prevent its growth in addition to more effectively confronting the issue when it arises.
What is fungus?
Mold and dry rot are fungi (the plural form of fungus). Neither bacteria nor plant nor animal, fungus comprises its own kingdom in the scientific order. Fungus’ main job is one of decomposition–breaking down plant and animal matter into components useful to future life. It accomplishes this by secreting enzymes into its environment and digesting the resulting particles as its food. It spreads by releasing spores into the air or water, which can then reproduce themselves and colonize new areas. These spores are responsible for mold’s adverse health effects in humans.
The ways fungi eat and reproduce, while critically important in nature, are the same reasons why they cause problems in homes. Their ability to decompose and spread makes them potent threats and stubborn guests. Knowing their ways and their needs is an important first step and keeping your home infestation-free and restoring it to that state when compromised. Termiguard & Fenwick has decades of experience in mold remediation with a team of trained and experienced experts that know the ins and outs of mold, from detection to destruction.
What conditions enable fungal growth?
Water is the single most important factor in mold growth. Without an ample source of water, mold cannot thrive and reproduce. Airborne water, also known as humidity, can provide the fuel that mold needs to grow. This is why humid climates like the Gulf Coast experience high rates of mold and rot. Standing water also allows for extreme mold growth. Leaky plumbing, foundations, and appliances are often the culprits here.
These unfortunate events can result from anything from a high water table to a defective seal or valve. Homeowners should do everything in their power to prevent the accumulation of standing water, especially providing for the health of their foundation and plumbing.
What is the process for mold remediation?
Termiguard & Fenwick has honed its 5-step mold remediation program over decades of experience. The process goes beyond simply fixing the problem to include a detailed understanding of the cause, a full and comprehensive fix, and a plan for the prevention of future problems.
The first step is a free initial consultation. This involves basic questions about the history of the property, the extent of the damage, and common problems associated with mold and fungal growth. Then, Termiguard & Fenwick sends a specialist certified by the National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors for a site visit. Here, our specialist will thoroughly inspect and document all the relevant areas and take samples like psychometric readings, air samples, and photographs.
Next, we fully eliminate the mold present with the best tools for the job–high-efficiency vacuums, scrubbers, and clearing materials. We take careful steps to avoid spreading spores through consistent checks and precautions. Every job requires a thorough post-remediation inspection to ensure that we have fully tackled the problem.
Termiguard & Fenwick stands by our work with our 100% protection guarantee. We work with you to ensure that the initial cause of mold is eliminated in addition to repairing any associated damage like dry rot. More, we offer continued inspections and mold protection services, as well as a $100,000 insurance backed Protection Guarantee.
Mold is a headache, but don’t let remediation turn into a migraine. With the complexities of fungus, make sure you hire a well-regarded firm to do the job right. Trust Termiguard & Fenwick to work with you to fix the problem and its associated damages thoroughly and give yourself peace of mind toward a mold-free future.
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