Mold Triggers Need for Complete Crawl Space Makeover in Highlands, NJ

Challenge

Unfortunately, mold growth in non-living areas of the home like crawl spaces, basements, and attics is often not discovered until a home inspection. With this home in Highlands, NJ, mold was found in the crawl space. There was no plumbing leak or other water intrusion. Rather, mold had formed because of chronically high indoor humidity levels. Many homeowners are unaware that dangerous mold growth can be caused simply by high moisture levels in the air. You don’t need to have a major water intrusion event like flooding for mold to start forming and spreading throughout your home.

Solution

First, we removed the existing insulation and the vapor barrier, because they were covered with mold and unsalvageable. Next, we treated the mold with an antimicrobial application called MAPS 1, which stands for Mold Abatement Polymer Solutions. MAPS 1 is an EPA registered product that attacks mold on a cellular level and immediately kills it. Next, we used our mold stain remover and scrubbed away all the mold growth throughout the area. Afterward, we applied our patented sealant called MAPS 2. MAPS 2 is a moisture-sensitive application that encapsulates the surface mold is growing on and renders it harmless, inert, and non-allergenic. One of the best features of MAPS 2 is that it will reactivate whenever it gets wet to prevent future mold growth. 

As long as this crawl space had sustained high humidity levels, it would be at risk for a returning mold problem. We installed a new vapor barrier, blocked the vents, and installed a SaniDry Sedona dehumidifier with a condensate pump. These rugged dehumidifiers are specially designed to work in basements and crawl spaces. These machines are maintenance-free. There is no water pan to empty and a built-in hygrometer constantly measures the room’s humidity, turning the machine on and off as needed. 

With our mold treatment applications along with these improvements and upgrades, this crawl space is now mold-free. Even more important, it will stay mold-free.