Mold Remediation in Lexington, Starting With the Moisture

Moisture First

The Kentucky Geological Survey lists wet basements, wet crawl spaces and seepage among Fayette County's land-use issues. Its notes also describe how leaking water mains, drains or sprinklers can soak swelling clay soils near foundations. Any of those can leave dampness where nobody sees it.

How Remediation Works

1. Inspect. Moisture meters and thermal imaging find wet areas behind walls and under floors.
2. Contain. Plastic barriers and negative air pressure keep spores out of the rest of the house.
3. Remove. Moldy drywall, insulation and carpet come out. Framing is cleaned.
4. Clean. HEPA vacuuming and wiping of surfaces in the work area.
5. Dry. Dehumidifiers bring materials down to normal moisture readings.
6. Rebuild. New materials go in only after the cause is fixed.

Small Spots You Can Handle

The EPA's guidance on mold and moisture says a homeowner can usually clean an area of roughly 10 square feet or less, with gloves, goggles and an N-95 respirator. Hard surfaces can be scrubbed with detergent and water and dried completely. Ceiling tiles, carpet and other absorbent materials that have grown mold may need to be thrown away.

Keeping It Dry

• EPA advises drying wet materials within 24 to 48 hours of a leak.
• Keep indoor humidity below 60 percent, and ideally in the 30 to 50 percent range.
• Run a dehumidifier in the basement through the summer.
• Extend downspouts and fix grading before refinishing the basement.

Mold often follows a flooded floor; our basement flooding page for Lexington explains the drying side. See what else we handle on our Lexington restoration home page.