You’re halfway through a home remodel, and things are going well—until you open up a wall and discover mold. Rotten luck, right? Finding mold during remodeling mid-project isn’t just inconvenient; it can be unsettling, especially if you’re not sure what steps to take next. But don’t worry! At Black Hill Restoration, we’ve helped plenty of homeowners handle surprise mold, and we’re here to guide you through it.
Here’s what you need to know about dealing with mold during your remodel, from identifying the source to tackling remediation, and how to get back on track safely.
Why Mold Can Show Up During Renovations
You might wonder, “Where did this mold even come from?” It’s not like it just popped up overnight. In many cases, mold hides in walls, ceilings, or crawl spaces and only becomes visible once you start knocking things down. Older homes are especially prone to hidden mold, but even newer ones can have it if there’s been water damage.
Common Causes of Surprise Mold During Remodel
- Hidden Water Leaks: Often, leaks behind walls or under floors go unnoticed for years. When you open things up during a remodel, the mold growing silently around that moisture becomes clear.
- Roof Leaks and Pipe Bursts: A roof leak can let moisture seep into your home, especially after a heavy Texas rainstorm. And if you’ve had a burst pipe, the moisture can encourage mold growth in places you can’t see.
- Old, Damaged Materials: In some cases, mold is already on old wood, drywall, or insulation that’s been exposed to moisture over the years.
Mold may be more common than you think, but knowing why it’s there doesn’t make it any less stressful. The next step is to figure out what to do about it.
Pause the Project and Assess the Mold
When you first discover mold, the best thing to do is hit pause on your renovation. As tempting as it may be to keep going, working around mold without addressing it can spread spores, increasing the area of contamination. You don’t want to make the problem worse.
Quick Visual Check
Once you stop the project, take a moment to do a visual inspection. While you don’t want to touch or disturb the mold, you can look around to get a sense of how extensive it is. If you see dark patches, greenish-black mold, or a slimy texture, you could be dealing with black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum), which requires more specialized care.
When to Call a Professional Inspector
If the mold seems widespread or you’re not sure what type it is, it’s time to bring in a licensed mold inspector. An inspector can assess the type of mold, the extent of the contamination, and provide recommendations for safe and effective cleanup. Trying to handle a serious mold problem yourself can lead to health issues, so don’t hesitate to call in the pros.
Determine the Source of Moisture
Mold won’t grow without moisture, so finding and fixing the moisture source is crucial. Think of it like fixing a leaky faucet—you can clean up the water all you want, but until the faucet’s repaired, the problem won’t go away. Mold is the same. If you clean it up without addressing the moisture, it’ll just come back.
Common Moisture Sources
- Roof Leaks: Rainwater can seep through a damaged roof, especially if it hasn’t been inspected or maintained recently.
- Pipe Leaks and Bursts: Old pipes, cold snaps, or increased water pressure can lead to leaks that allow moisture to build up behind walls.
- Poor Ventilation: In humid rooms like bathrooms and basements, poor ventilation can trap moisture, creating a breeding ground for mold.
Finding the moisture source can be tricky, so consider a thorough house inspection to identify and address the root issue.
Is It Black Mold?
Not all mold is the same, and some types carry greater risks than others. Black mold, in particular, is known for its potential health risks, including respiratory issues and allergies. If you suspect black mold, it’s essential to handle it carefully.
Why Black Mold Deserves Special Attention
Black mold isn’t necessarily more dangerous than other molds, but it’s common in water-damaged areas and releases mycotoxins, which can cause respiratory issues, especially for people with compromised immune systems. If you’re dealing with black mold, we highly recommend calling in a mold remediation specialist, as it requires specific removal techniques to prevent spread.
Call in a Licensed Mold Inspector
If you find mold during a remodel, calling in a licensed mold inspector can save you time, money, and stress. An inspector will assess the type of mold, the extent of contamination, and provide recommendations for safe removal.
Benefits of Professional Inspection
- Peace of Mind: A licensed inspector can tell you exactly what you’re dealing with, which can ease any fears about health risks.
- Accurate Assessment: With professional tools and expertise, inspectors can find mold that might not be visible to the naked eye, ensuring complete removal.
- Prevent Costly Mistakes: Without proper guidance, DIY mold removal can spread spores, leading to more extensive—and expensive—damage.
For expert, impartial mold inspection, we recommend Howard Environmental. Their team specializes in thorough mold assessments and provides honest guidance without fear-mongering or unnecessary recommendations.
Mold Remediation: Steps to Take After Discovery
Once you’ve assessed the mold, it’s time for mold remediation. Mold remediation is more than just wiping away the visible mold; it’s about safely removing and containing it to prevent spread.
What to Expect During Mold Remediation
- Containment: The area is sealed off to prevent spores from spreading.
- Air Filtration: High-efficiency air filters are used to capture airborne spores.
- Removal of Contaminated Materials: In severe cases, drywall or insulation may need to be removed.
Mold remediation can take time, but it’s essential for the health of your home and family. Skipping proper remediation may seem faster, but it often leads to more issues down the line.
How to Resume Your Remodel After Mold Remediation
Once remediation is complete, it’s tempting to dive right back into your renovation. But before you do, make sure to confirm with your inspector that all mold is cleared, and that the area is completely dry and safe.
Getting Clearance to Continue
- Final Inspection: Have your inspector give the final clearance before resuming work.
- Ensure Complete Drying: Even a hint of moisture can encourage mold growth again. Make sure all materials are thoroughly dried before putting up new drywall or flooring.
By taking these steps, you’ll ensure that your remodel moves forward safely and stays mold-free.
Tips for Preventing Mold in Future Renovations
Prevention is key, and there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of finding mold in future renovation projects.
Mold Prevention Tips
- Check for Mold Prior to Renovations: Get a pre-renovation mold inspection, especially if your home has had water damage in the past.
- Waterproofing and Ventilation: Invest in good ventilation systems for humid areas, and consider waterproofing materials in moisture-prone spaces.
- Routine Inspections: After any heavy rain or water leak, check your home’s vulnerable areas to catch mold before it becomes a bigger issue.
By taking preventive measures, you can reduce the likelihood of mold issues and enjoy a smoother remodeling process.
Don’t Let A Mold Surprise Stall Your Remodeling Dreams
Finding mold mid-renovation is never fun, but with the right steps, you can get back on track quickly. From pausing the project to fixing moisture issues and calling in professionals for safe removal, handling mold during a remodel doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
If you find mold, take a breath and remember that help is available. Black Hill Restoration specializes in mold inspection and remediation, so you can focus on creating the space of your dreams without worrying about what’s lurking behind the walls.
Found mold during your remodel? Don’t let it derail your project. Contact Black Hill Restoration for expert mold inspection and remediation, and get back to your renovation with confidence.