Research & Writing Assignment:
Mold spores are part of the natural environment and normally do not exist in concentrations that pose a problem in most homes.
When mold spores become damp and begin growing indoors, molds have the potential to cause health problems. Molds can produce allergens, irritants and, in some cases, toxins.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
On an recent inspection I noticed from the exterior wall that sprinklers appeared to be spraying on the home. The evidence was swollen/damaged siding and trim with sprinkler heads against the home. Upon further evaluation of the interior portion of the wall I noticed discoloration and swelling of the wall material and warping of the wood flooring. Moisture was detected on the flooring. No visible mold or musty odor was noted. I shared with the client information of what moisture entry can lead to if not repaired and further recommended evaluation of the wall and flooring material for possible microbial growth.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I viewed the picture of the “Crawlspace Duct Leaks” which appears to indicate a gap in the main duct line from the furnace. As air flows through the duct line, it is usually the opposite temperature of what the crawlspace is. For example if it is winter the crawlspace is cooler and the air in the duct line is warmer. This difference in temperature can create condensation. Moisture can become trapped between the installed insulation. With little to no air flow to help dry the trapped moisture this can lead to microbial growth. The cycle of condensation continues as long as the source (duct leak) is not repaired.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This is a picture of a plumbing clean out closet. There is presents of possible mold on the framing near the ground. I recommend further evaluation from a qualified professional for further evaluation and for proper cleaning of the area.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I chose to write on the importance of gutter maintenance. It is important to make sure that your gutters our cleaned, properly pitched, and sealed. Gutters that are not properly maintained can lead to eave damage, water intrusion at the foundation and wood rot.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This is a pretty obvious case of mold on this ceiling. The water intrusion source needs to be identified and repaired. This mold has gotten so bad that remediation will be necessary as this can lead to heath issues if humans are living in this house.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Mold is naturally occurring and is located in every climate. In interior spaces of homes growing mold needs to be removed to avoid health issues by inhabitants. Mold needs moisture and food to grow, unfortunately that describes the majority of construction materials used today. If no moisture is present then mold will not grow. Construction materials with less than 17% MC will not allow mold growth.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
When inspecting crawl space we found evidence of mold on cinderblock and damp insulation around air supply ducks. The vapor barrier did not completely cover the dirt in the craw space. We met with home owner to bring the defects to their attention and recommended that the dryer vent was overloaded with lint and should be replaced with solid metal pipe. We recommended mold sampling and HVAC contractor to find the source of moisture and complete inspection of all duct work and repair all problem areas.
Research & Writing Assignment:
While inspecting the crawl space I found that the vapor barrier was insufficient and does not cover the complete area. The plastic vent for the dryer was full of lent and needed to be replaced with metal pipe. Efflorescent staining on block walls and damp insulation around duct work needed to be repaired by HVAC contractor and source of moisture corrected. Mold sampling is needed and complete mold inspection of the crawl space.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The drywall under the kitchen sink appears to have a mold like substances; Mold has been known to cause serious health issues and further evaluation and testing is recommended remediation of the effected area should include removal of the drywall and treatment of the effected studs with a biocide
Research & Writing Assignment:
Mold occurs naturally outdoors but should be avoided indoors in order to to prevent a number of health related issues ranging from allergies, to rashes, and even death. Prevention of mold indoors starts with controlling moisture around to home and preventing moisture intrusion inside the home
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The black stains were on the garage ceiling of a recent home inspection I performed. With the use of thermal imaging and a moisture meter active moisture penetration was noted and the client was informed that a mold inspection was recommended to determine the nature of the substance
Research & Writing Assignment:
Thermal imaging can be a very useful tool in finding unseen moisture issues. In many home inspections I have performed areas of concern have been noted, specifically on the first floor ceiling of a 2 story house below laundry or bathroom areas
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Entered the attic space for visual inspection. Insulation, duct-work, sheathing and roof support components were inspected. No sign of microbial growth was Identified. The area was inspected for conditions conducive for microbial growth and non was identified. It is recommended to monitor the area periodically for moisture penetration and repair accordingly.
Research & Writing Assignment:
There are several methods for mold remediation. Latest research about mold is helping us design new methods for mold removal. Abrasive blasting is one of latest methods to clean surfaces affected by mold. This process is easy, quick and effective way to remove mold specially from hard to reach areas. There are several types of abrasive blasting available. Decision about the type of blasting to use is made after a complete and thorough mold inspection.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This essay is about roof inspections. The home inspector inspects the roof for leaks, the type of covering materials the roof is made, also the inspector shall inspect the gutters, downspouts, vents, flashing,skylights and chimney and any other roof penetrations. The inspector can inspect the roof from the ground, from a ladder or on the roof itself. The home inspector is not required to get on the roof.
Research & Writing Assignment:
This essay is about swimming pool barriers. A barrier can be made of different materials like brick or stone and is referred to as pool fencing.
The barriers have several requirements that need to be followed along with the access gates. These requirements should be followed exactly, approximately 250 children drown every year.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
There are indications of moisture intrusion around the chimney as evidenced by discolored building materials. In my opinion, moisture intrusion can lead to various issues, including damage to structural and/or finish components of the home. It can also lead to mold problems. I recommend you contact a qualified contractor to correct this issue. Additionally, an air quality test may be desired to determine if there is active microbial growth present.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I read the InterNACHI article titled Moisture Intrusion. The article covered a variety of moisture intrusion possibilities, including roof penetrations/leakage, plumbing fixtures, foundation seepage, etc. What I find most interesting is the potential for moisture issues through water vapor movement, condensation, and indoor humidity levels being too high. All issues mentioned are very helpful for conducting a mold inspection.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This, taken during a general home inspection, identifies visible apparent mold on a large section of the floor structure. The cause of the apparent microbial growth was a leak in the refrigerator water line above that has heavily leaked over time. The leak needs to be stopped, the area dried, and mold sampling of the area needs to be conducted to confirm growth, identify the type of mold and determine a need for remediation.
