Deck Mold Issues

Patio & covered porch below

Water damage and mold can cause all kinds of unwanted problems. Here is a case story of how exterior mold can ruin your deck and what you can do about it.

LOCATION: Lower Basement

Observations:

• Active leak noted from a plumbing supply line near the bottom of the stairway.
• Good HVAC system and air filtration.
• Sump pump present in the basement and appears to be functioning well.
• RH:43 % Temp: 70°F CO2: 502 ppm CO: 0 ppm

Recommendations:

Evidence of Failing Tile on Deck Above

• Recommend having a plumber inspect and make repairs on leaking supply line.

 LOCATION: Crawlspaces

• Recently deceased rat found in a trap in the back crawlspace. Very strong odor present upon opening crawlspace hatch.
• Crawlspace under stairs reveals eroding soil from under the foundation. This is not likely a problem at this time but should be monitored to ensure further erosion does not occur.
• Small Crawlspace at end of stairway shows some minor water intrusion from the foundation / footing cold joint. This does not appear to be a current problem.

Recommendations:

• Recommend having a pest inspector remove any dead rodents and re-set traps.
• Recommend monitoring crawlspace for further moisture intrusion and/or soil erosion.

LOCATION: Attic

Observations:

• Significant amount of rodent feces, traps and carcasses present in the attic.
• Ventilation fan from hall bathroom was not connected to roof vent.
• HVAC ducts were not sealed or insulated.
• Large open chases were present where relative humidity to enter into the attic space.
• Insulation was not sufficient to meet current code.
• Unsecured electrical connections were present in attic space.

Recommendations:

• Recommend installing new vent ducting from bathroom fan to roof and ensure it is connected securely.
• Recommend removal and replacement of all insulation in attic space due to rodent contamination.
• Recommend installing duct sealant on HVAC ducting to minimize air leakage into attic space.

LOCATION: Exterior

Observations:

• Tiled exterior porch off upstairs living room has failed and is letting significant moisture into the structure.
• Severe staining and beginnings of rot were noted on underside of porch. It is not known how structurally sound the porch is at this time.
• Gutters along back of home appear to require some maintenance.

Recommendations:

• Recommend having a contractor evaluate and make repairs to tiled porch on backside of home.

LOCATION: Master Bathroom / Bedroom

Observations:

• Deteriorated grout noted in master shower.
• Failed sealant noted in corners of shower surround and pan.
• Lower faucet has missing grout around the edges which may allow moisture to enter the wall cavity.
• Good ventilation fan present in bathroom.
• RH:45 % Temp: 69°F CO2: 541 ppm CO: 0 ppm

Recommendations:

• Recommend having grout in shower replaced.
• Recommend running ventilation fan a minimum of one hour after bathing.

LOCATION: Upstairs TV Room

Observations:

• Peeling paint noted on upper corner of ceiling.
• Increased moisture content noted in surrounding building materials.
• Water damaged area appears to be a result of moisture intrusion due to a leaking gutter and no overhang. Wind may drive water leaking from gutter up into attic space and be affecting the ceiling.
• RH:45 % Temp: 69°F CO2: 880 ppm CO: 0 ppm

Recommendations:

• Recommend having gutters repaired.
• Remove all peeling paint from ceiling, sand and repaint to match.

LOCATION: Basement TV Room

Observations:

• Carpets in room are old and should be replaced.
• RH:42 % Temp: 70°F CO2: 494 ppm CO: 0 ppm

Recommendations:

• Recommend removal of carpets from TV room and replace with a solid surface flooring such as hardwood, laminate or tile.
• Client may wish to install an electric, in-floor heating system to allow for greater comfort.
• Client may also wish to run a dedicated HEPA based filter in the room to help remove any additional particulate from the air.

LOCATION: Kitchenette

Observations:

• Leak noted under kitchen sink drain. No elevated moisture levels were noted at this time but repairs should be made prior to regular use of the sink again.
• RH:42 % Temp: 70°F CO2: 499 ppm CO: 0 ppm

Recommendations:

• Have a qualified plumber make repairs to sink drain.