Excess moisture, leaks, and flooding are just some of the most common causes of water damage in homes. However, there are several different types of intrusions that can occur. Regardless of whether the water damage event started out small or large, it can end up as one big problem if it goes unchecked. It can even turn into a mold remediation project overnight. After all, it only takes 24 hours for mold to start growing after a water intrusion.
The longer that a home sits, the more that the mold and water damage will continue to take over the property and destroy the building materials. That’s why abandoned properties are notorious for some of the most severe water damage. Investors don’t have to let that scare them away from an opportunity, though.
With the help of a professional water damage restoration and mold remediation crew, abandoned properties can be gutted and reclaimed. Think that sounds too good to be true? Check out this project where First Call Restoration helped to restore a property that had been overtaken by mold.
The Problem with the Kingston, NY Property
A home in Kingston, NY had sat empty for quite some time. Eventually, it made its way to the real estate market, but by the time it was purchased, it had a water damage problem that went unresolved for a significant amount of time. The result was that the entire property had become infested with several different types of mold.
The mold visibly covered much of the surfaces in the house, including the walls, floors, and ceilings. In fact, the mold had taken over every room in the house from the kitchen and bathroom to the basement and utility room. As a result, the home was unsafe to enter without the proper protective equipment, and it was uninhabitable.
First Call Restoration’s Professional Inspection of the Mold
In order to make the property livable again, it would require extensive mold remediation work. For that reason, the new owner called in reinforcements. They knew that the level of damage to the home would require the help of licensed and experienced professionals. Therefore, they reached out to the water damage and mold remediation experts of First Call Restoration.
As soon as the technicians received the call, they sent a team to the property. The in-person inspection was necessary in order to determine the most effective mold remediation plan. The crews came prepared with all of the safety equipment they needed to enter the property.
From there, they used their tools to test the mold and check the moisture levels throughout the home. Their moisture meters were especially helpful in determining the source of the water damage.
The Customized Solution for Restoring the Home
Since the level of water damage and mold growth was so severe, First Call Restoration determined that the best course of action would be to gut the Kingston home entirely. The process would include:
- Removing All Damaged Materials
- Cleaning & Disinfecting
- Drying & Dehumidifying
Demolition of Damaged Materials
With mold taking over nearly every surface of the home, there was very little that the contractors could do to salvage any of the building materials. For that reason, they focused much of their efforts on removing all of the drywall, flooring, cabinets, insulation, and more. The whole house was stripped down to the framing, and all of the damaged materials were safely disposed of.
Cleaning & Disinfecting the Building
Anything that was left in the home had to be thoroughly cleaned to prevent the mold growth from returning. The professionals used several techniques to rid the property of harmful spores. Disinfecting solutions were used to wipe down anything that remained in the house. They also used HEPA filters and vacuums to remove particles left behind from the demolition. The contractors didn’t quit until all signs of mold had been eliminated from the house.
Drying & Dehumidifying
The professionals also knew that the property would need some drying work. They used dehumidifiers to make sure that all excess moisture was removed from the materials and air. The equipment ran until their moisture meters indicated that the water damage and mold remediation was successful.
Request More Information on Mold Remediation Solutions by First Call Restoration
Severe mold growth doesn’t have to be the end of the world. With the help of trained professionals like First Call Restoration even abandoned properties can be saved. Homeowners and investors shouldn’t hesitate to call for help, though.
The experienced company is available 24/7 to help with emergency situations. They are also easy to reach through their online form. Customers can simply submit their project details to request a free quote for their services.
