San Carlos Mold Damage

7/25/2018 (Permalink)

Mold patch

In the San Carlos hills, mold is a common concern among local homeowners, and mold growth can quickly consume a region behind walls or in dark corners. Mold is often difficult to detect, and by the time it is obviously present, significant damage can already have resulted in the home. This article outlines how mold damage occurs, what can result from it, and what must be done to remove it. 

How Mold Damage Occurs
Mold damage most commonly results from a water leak or some other form of water damage. Even after the leak is fixed and the water appears dried, more can still be inside of wood or fabric, promoting mold growth. It should be noted that mold also typically requires an organic surface to grow on, such as wood or fabric. There is no way to stop mold from forming in these damp regions, at least initially. Mold patches form from airborne spores, of which you likely breathe in and encounter thousands of every day. If the conditions are right, one spore can eventually lead to exponential growth into a full colony. Thus, the only real way to prevent mold growth is to avoid water and moisture problems and fully dry out materials after any leaks have been fixed. 

What Mold Damage Does
Mold often forms into large patches, which can grow to sometimes be several feet or larger in diameter. Some types of mold may also emit a strong musty odor when in high enough quantities, allowing for easier detection. However, if you can smell mold in your home, this may be cause for significant alarm as some molds may cause adverse health effects, especially if they are in large enough colonies to emit odors. Mold can chew through organic materials such as wood, causing permanent structural damage to your home. Additionally, its potential ill health effects make mold a silent but highly dangerous force acting upon your home. If a mold colony gets enough out of hand, 

your home may be condemned for safety concerns. Thus, one should always work to stop mold as soon as possible. 

What is Done About Mold
Mold remediation typically involves a company like SERVPRO coming to your home to do full-time work. You may potentially need to live elsewhere during remediation. Technicians will first identify the source and spread of the mold, then begin a process of air filtration and drying to help stop further growth. Damaged materials are then removed from the home and replaced, and everything potentially exposed to the mold and its spores is given a thorough scrubbing. Depending on the damage, final repairs and restorations may be made to any damaged regions. 

SERVPRO of Belmont / San Carlos is a locally owned and operated business and has had experience with dozens of mold removal and remediation projects in the past. If you require professional services or assistance with residential mold growth, call us at (650) 591-4137.