What is Mold?
Mold is the layperson's term for parasitic fungi that produce a whitish substance. Mold feeds and grows by ingesting organic matter and it requires a moist and warm environment to survive. Unfortunately, mold or mildew also brings with it odors that are often described as "musty" or "moldy." Natural materials such as carpet and upholstery fibers made of jute, rayon, cotton or silk, as well as floors, drywall, framing, and tackless strip are common places for a cleaner to encounter this powdery white foe. Mildew growth can also be a problem after a flood or water damage. Often this is because the affected area was not dried completely, took an excessive amount of time to dry, or the source of the damage was not fixed.
Moisture Control & Mold Prevention
Dehumidifiers remove humidity from the air. Since moisture is one of the critical requirements for mold growth and can be controlled, it is a logical strategy to dry the affected structure and the air within it to help reduce or eliminate mold growth. In order to be effective, the humidity levels in the structure must be aggressively lowered and maintained. The necessary relative humidity level is determined by the coldest surface area in the structure. In Northern climates the foundation can be considered the coldest surface during humid periods because the ground temperature remains approximately 52 degrees Fahrenheit. In the South, portions of the air conditioning duct work probably represent the coldest points. The air in the structure must be dehumidified to a dew point (saturation temperature) lower than these coldest spots.
Mold & Insurance Coverage.
The coverage and terms of each policy varies. Most microbial growth is due to ongoing seepage or faulty air conditioning. Most restoration contractors and most insurance companies follow the same industry standards (IICRC S520) for determining the scope of work required as well as for determining allowable charges for that work. This standardization helps avoid complications and confusion regardless of the number of parties that are involved, Sano Steam had successfully completed over 420 remediation jobs in the past 18 years. Call our office today to set up a free consultation.