Faulty Contractor Work Leads to Mold in Attic in Neptune, NJ
Challenge
This homeowner Neptune, NJ found mold growth in her attic and immediately called our office for help. This particular job reinforced the importance of having effective attic ventilation so that moisture can escape. During our humid Jersey Shore summer months, poor ventilation can cause a massive buildup of heat in the attic space. On a 90 degree summer day, attic temperatures can reach heat stroke temperatures of 140 degrees. Without proper attic ventilation, moisture that rises up through the structure condenses in the attic, causing a host of problems.
Also, we found out that the installer, when putting in the fiberglass batt insulation, pushed the insulation flush against the soffit, which is the construction material that bridges the gap between the home’s siding and the roofline. Soffits have built-in vents that allow air to escape. The covered insulation completely blocked airflow and trapped humid air, creating an environment perfect for mold growth. Also, attic fans assist natural ventilation, and this home did not have one.
Solution
We treated the area with our EPA-registered antimicrobial solution called Mold Abatement Polymer Solution 1, or MAPS 1. This product attacks mold on a cellular level and kills it instantly. We then used our mold stain remover, scrubbed away all the excess mold staining, and then applied our patented sealant MAPS 2. This application encapsulates the surface mold is growing on and renders it harmless and non-allergenic. MAPS 2 is also moisture-sensitive and will reactivate whenever it gets wet to prevent future mold growth.
We finished this job by pulling back the insulation enough to where the soffit was no longer blocked off and the attic could once again vent properly, bringing back all-important airflow. Whenever treating a mold problem, for a long-term solution, it is critical to determine and fix the underlying water or moisture problem that caused the mold growth in the first place.
