Why Is Moisture Testing an Important Part of Preventing Further Mold Damage?

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can detect hidden leaks which can lead to mold growth.

Stockton Homeowners Hoping Mold Damage Treatments Will Prevent Further Growth 

People living in Stockton know the importance of taking good care of their homes. Home upkeep makes for a better living environment, and it also boosts your house value if you decide to sell.  

Unfortunately, some home upkeep tasks seem never-ending, such as dealing with mold damage in Stockton homes. Anyone who tackles fungal growth in their home knows how easily it can grow back or appear in another part of the building.  

Why does mold come back so quickly? 

The mold you see consists of tiny tube-like cells called hyphae, which bond together to form a visible colony known as a mycelium. The mycelium releases new microscopic spores, which drift throughout your home on air currents or even carried on clothes, shoes, and pets. The spores can start a new colony anywhere that has: 

• Moisture
• Organic material for them to feed on
• Darkness and the correct temperature 

What can I do to prevent new colonies from forming? 

The bad news is that you cannot wholly prevent new colonies from forming. Mold occurs in nature and can re-enter your home at any time.  

The good news is that there are steps you can take to reduce the chance of fungal regrowth. One thing you can do is minimize moisture in the area – and SERVPRO can help you with that. 

How does moisture testing help?  

You cannot see always see moisture. You might notice a tell-tale sign such as water dripping from a leaky faucet or moisture stains on the wall. However, moisture can also gather behind baseboards, behind furniture, inside walls, or under carpets. 

Moisture testing reveals wet areas that are ripe for mold growth.  

How does SERVPRO test for moisture? 

We have several pieces of equipment to hand: 

• Moisture sensors to test carpets, padding, and the floor underneath
• Moisture meters to measure moisture levels in various materials
• Thermo-hygrometers to measure air temperature and humidity levels
• Thermal imaging cameras to capture infrared images inside building materials 

Once we have a clear idea of the moisture levels, we can devise a drying scheme to reduce them and make the area less inviting to mold spores. 

If you suspect mold damage in your house, do not delay. Call SERVPRO of Stockton at (209) 477-3090.