True Story (Mold Removal prior to moving in?): In April of 2016, a family member was thrilled to move into what they thought was their dream home. The price, location, and terms were ideal, and they eagerly signed the papers, picked out colors, and began moving in. However, within just a few short months, their excitement turned to distress as they began to experience unexpected health problems.
By June 2016, the entire family had begun to suffer from various health issues, most notably respiratory distress. This was particularly concerning because none of them had experienced these symptoms before moving into the new home. Sinusitis, rhinitis, hay fever, cold, allergy-like symptoms, and general breathing issues became a daily struggle. The family’s dream home was quickly becoming a nightmare.
Array of Solutions, a trusted name in mold removal in Greenville South Carolina since 2007, stands ready to tackle your mold woes. With our expert mold inspection Greenville services and EPA-Registered credentials, we’re equipped to detect, remove, and prevent mold growth in your home or business.
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The Discovery: Mold Testing and the Shocking Results
When I was contacted about their health concerns, my first question was whether the issues were respiratory-related. The answer was a definitive yes. Understanding the severity of the situation, I conducted a thorough mold test to determine if mold was the underlying cause of their problems.
The results were alarming. The lab tests revealed mold levels that were twenty times higher than acceptable, specifically of Stachybotrys and Penicillium Aspergillus, two types of mold known for causing significant health issues. These results were more than just numbers on a page—they confirmed that the family’s health was being compromised by the very home they were so excited to move into.
The Hidden Danger – Mold Removal prior to moving in? : An Open-Vented, Dirt Floor Crawlspace
Upon inspection, it became clear that the family was living in a home with an open-vented, dirt floor crawlspace—a setup that is notorious for mold issues. Crawlspaces like this are often damp and poorly ventilated, creating the perfect environment for mold growth. What made matters worse was that the home’s HVAC ducting and plenum (an air-filled space under the home that distributes air throughout the HVAC system) were also housed in the crawlspace.
The HVAC system, which should have been circulating clean air throughout the home, was instead pulling in contaminated air from the mold-infested crawlspace. This contaminated air was then distributed throughout the entire house, directly contributing to the family’s respiratory issues.
During the inspection, I removed the fan from the HVAC unit and was immediately greeted with visible mold. This visual confirmation, coupled with the lab results, made it undeniable that mold removal was urgently needed. The fact that air could only enter the living space by passing through the contaminated plenum highlighted just how dire the situation had become.
The Consequences of Inadequate Pre-Move-In Inspections
Before I was called in, another company had been contacted to address the family’s concerns. Their suggestion? A simple vapor barrier. Unfortunately, this solution was far from adequate. While vapor barriers can help reduce moisture in crawlspaces, they do not address the root cause of existing mold problems. By the time I was involved, the damage was already done, and the family’s health had already been severely impacted.
This story serves as a critical reminder of the importance of thorough mold inspections and testing before moving into a new home. Mold removal should never be overlooked or delayed, especially when it comes to ensuring the health and safety of your family.
Why Mold Removal Should Be a Priority Before Moving In
Mold removal is not just about cleaning up visible mold—it’s about ensuring that your living environment is safe and healthy. The story of this family underscores the risks of moving into a home without fully understanding its potential mold issues. It also highlights the importance of working with reputable environmental experts who can properly assess and address mold concerns.
If you’re planning to move into a new home, don’t take any chances with your health. Make sure to have a comprehensive mold inspection conducted by a trusted expert. Identifying and addressing mold issues before you move in can save you from a host of health problems and the potential costs of extensive mold remediation later on.
Conclusion: Protect Your Family’s Health with Proper Mold Inspection and Removal
Mold is more than just an inconvenience—it’s a serious health hazard that can have long-lasting effects on you and your loved ones. The story of this family’s experience is a cautionary tale that emphasizes the importance of mold inspection and removal before moving into any new home. Don’t let your dream home become a nightmare. Ensure that you’re moving into a safe environment by conducting thorough mold testing and, if necessary, mold removal.
At Arrayofsolutions.com, we specialize in identifying and addressing mold problems before they become a threat to your health. If you’re considering a move, don’t hesitate to contact us for a professional mold inspection. Your health and peace of mind are worth it.