The Most Common Cause of Mold in Overland Park’s High-End Homes
Toxic black mold in Overland Park homes and apartments is common. Most often caused by elevated humidity, leaking concrete roofs, and condensation on cathedral ceilings. Also, drain backups, and an insufficient amount of ventilation in the attic. These are the most common causes of mold in Overland Park high-end homes. The common misconception is that if there is a mold problem, it would be visible and evident. Unfortunately, this is not the case, especially in higher-end homes. We see lots of mold behind custom woodwork and custom shelving in higher-end homes. This is a common problem. Especially since common building practices of higher-end homes are constructed with concrete roofs and stucco exteriors. Both of which are leading causes of mold problems on exterior walls.
A recent example of this was a high-end home that only had minor signs of a possible mold problem. Once our crews started, we uncovered significant mold problems. All behind the custom woodwork in the dining and living room. Because of stucco issues and improper installation of windows. Hidden mold is a common problem and it takes the professional with experience to spot the signs of its growth. Due to the serious negative health effects brought by mold. We are now becoming more aware in the last 5 years of all it’s negative effects. Mold has become a major health threat in America, luxury homes included. Luxury home builders in Overland Park are accused of faulty construction.
Mold Problems from Stucco
Peeling back the stucco used in construction exposes rotting wood and mold. Trapped water behind the stucco causes the home to rot away. Leaving the homeowners with huge repair costs. Homes with stucco problems are costly to repair. Many times the stucco, windows, and sheathing all have to be replaced. Also, high-end contractors hurry and utilize cost-cutting methods. Thus, putting the home at risk for damage and potential health issues. Damaging newly constructed homes. So fast as a result of the absorbent nature of stucco. Experts have attributed water and mold-related problems to lack of inspection of houses during construction.
Stucco inspection is so costly and requires two phases. The first test is to identify if there is a problem. Or if there could be problems in the future. The second phase of testing, destructive testing, requires peeling back layers of the stucco. Because this determines the cause of damage and the extent of that damage. Research indicates that there is a significant number of homes. Throughout the Overland Park and Johnson County area that needs stucco remediation. Nearly every house built in the last 20 years needs stucco remediation of some kind.
A Story of a Family Affected by Mold in Overland Park Condo
Aimee Patton and her eleven- year- old daughter, Amelia, have been forced to move out of their condo in Overland Park. Due to the black mold in the next vacant condo. Water damage to the joining unit went undetected for a short time. Aimee and her daughter, suffering from asthma. Have fallen sick several times over a period of four months because of the black mold next door. They have suffered sore throats, headaches and sinus infections which are common symptoms of mold exposure. Twice this year, she has moved out of her condo. To allow their unit to have mold remediation. Despite the mold remediation, Aimee has had positive mold tests and future mold growth.
This is a common problem. As many mold remediation companies, especially national franchises, do not take the time to perform a detailed and thorough job. Aimee’s mother, Anita Mooney has no doubt that her daughter’s and granddaughter’s health has been affected by mold. Mold related problems have been costly for Aimee and her daughter. Having spent more than $15,000 on hospital bills, mold remediation, and legal fees. Aimee is at a loss. The condo owner has not taken the mold problem seriously. Leaving Aimee feeling so overwhelmed by the costs piling up due to mold damage.
Mold in Overland Park Apartments is a Common Problem
Holly Carnes living in an apartment complex fears to have black mold in Overland Park’s high-end community. Because of her apartment’s heating and cooling system units and around the water heater. A black substance covering her heating and cooling system unit is evidence of having black mold. Black mold has caused Carnes’ one-year-old son’s prolonged sickness. Also, she worries about her son’s health and the safety of her neighbors.
Tenants have to deal with mold-related problems most often. As a result of landlords turning away from their responsibility of ensuring that their homes are in good condition. Holly Carnes’ manager does not only fail to facilitate mold remediation. Also, fails to acknowledge the problem despite the evidence presented. Some property owners and managers fail to take the mold problem seriously and avoid the problem.
Misconception of Landlords
A most common misconception by most property managers and owners is that mold can be bleached or painted over. However, this is very untrue. Bleach does not kill mold, it only removes the color of mold. Paint only covers the problem and causes mold to spread looking for more areas to grow. First of all, property owners should ensure they use a certified and experienced contractor for mold in Overland Park, To ensure that the mold problem is not made worse by improper mold removal methods.
Health Risks of Mold Exposure
To control and curb mold-related problems, Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSHA) provides basic information about mold in Overland Park, its causes and sources and related illnesses. Molds can be found both indoors and outdoors. Their spores float in the air exposing people to harm through breathing that air. Because moisture and oxygen favor the growth of mold and mold spores.
Address Excessive Moisture
To control the growth and rapid multiplication of mold, it is advisable to deal with excessive moisture first. Sources of moisture in buildings like flooding, leaking windows, and poor drainage systems. All causes of dampness need correcting to reduce cases of mold and mold-related illnesses. Mold, however less it is in a building, needs to be controlled. Because leaving it to spread throughout the building causes great damage to the owner or buyer.
Mold can be allergens and cause other adverse health effects. Apart from the odor that results from large amounts of it. Also, lung diseases, sinus infection, asthma, and other respiratory diseases are some of the serious cases resulting from mold outbreak. Individuals with conditions like pregnancy and diabetes, leukemia, and patients recovering from surgery. Also, elderly, children, and infants are more susceptible to health problems from mold.
Certified Mold Professionals are a Must
Homeowners should ensure they use certified contractors to control the increasing number of shoddy contractors. Potential home buyers should complete a mold test and general house inspection before purchase. To avoid costly repairs and remediation. Taking these precautions will control the rising numbers of frustrated families. Keep homes and working places moisture-free as a control measure for mold and related illnesses. Neglected homes and environment harbor mold growth. Hotels and restaurants need to observe strict hygiene to prevent the highly contagious norovirus.