Moisture Investigation
Moisture investigation consists of thoroughly examining a building to identify sources of moisture intrusion and moisture generation. At the end of the investigation, a report is presented which summarizes the findings and offers specific corrective actions.
Common Moisture Sources Homes
Plumbing, flashing and roof leaks - bulk moisture hidden in building cavities
Damp basements and crawl spaces - Roof drainage, vapor barriers, air leakage, ground water penetration, etc
Cooking, showering and line drying of clothes indoors
Humidifiers - excess moisture after weatherization efforts are completed
Improperly vented combustion appliances and clothes dryers - Look for rusty vent connectors
Flooding and sewage backups - common sense issue
Poor rain water drainage - Gutters, down spouts and diverters
How can too much moisture affect my home?
Mold
Too much moisture can cause mold to grow. Mold can grow in or on almost anything in your home, including paper, carpet, wood, dry wall, insulation, mattresses, and shower curtains. Mold also can grow in improperly maintained air conditioners, humidifiers and dehumidifiers. Excess moisture also provides a good environment for bacteria, cockroaches and dust mites.
Rot and Deterioration
Too much moisture can cause wood to rot, which may weaken the structure of your home. Moisture can even cause peeling, chipping or cracking paint, which may contribute to high levels of lead in household dust, especially if your home was built before 1978.
How can too much moisture in my home affect my health?
Mold, bacteria, cockroaches and dust mites have been linked to triggering allergies and asthma attacks, and may cause children who do not have allergies or asthma to develop either condition. Exposure to mold, bacteria, cockroaches and dust mites also can cause watery eyes, a runny nose, nasal congestion, itching, and headaches.
In older homes, moisture can cause paint to peel or crack, which, in turn can produce high levels of lead in household dust. Lead poisoning is the leading environmental illness in children. Exposure to lead in household dust can cause behavioral disorders, learning problems and slow a child's development.
How can I prevent mold and other moisture problems?
Preventing moisture problems is the most important way to control mold in your home. There are several simple ways to prevent moisture from becoming a problem:
Fix plumbing, flashing and roof leaks promptly.
Cover dirt in crawl spaces with plastic sheeting and ventilate the crawlspace.
Install exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom. Always use exhaust fans when cooking and showering.
Avoid using humidifiers since they add moisture and cause mold to grow. If you must use a humidifier, change the water daily and clean the tank weekly.
Use air conditioners or dehumidifiers to control moisture in humid weather. Air conditioners and dehumidifiers should be regularly cleaned and maintained.
Improve air circulation by opening windows when weather permits, using fans and keeping doors between rooms open.
Prevent water from entering basements and crawlspaces by repairing holes and cracks in walls; use landscaping to direct water away from the foundation.
Clean and maintain gutters, and make sure drain pipes carry water several feet from your home.
Call us for a free moisture inspection: 814-933-1432