Mold

[honeychile]

Originally Posted by 33girl

HC, have it inspected. If you need my guy's name PM me - I don't know if he does fullout mold inspection but anyone he would rec I would go with.

Thanks, 33!

Originally Posted by catfan

Honeychile, I'm an Extension Agent and answer questions about mold in homes on an almost daily basis. I recommend you call your local Extension office if your state still has one. Research based information is available from epa.gov. if you don't have an Extension service.
We DO NOT recommend testing for mold variety. It does not matter what kind it is, it needs to be cleaned up. To make a long story short, you will only have mold if you have water. Spend the money that would be used for testing, and fix the water problem, then clean-up the mold.
In the Ohio river valley where I live, this is a constant problem. Good luck, your problem appears fixable, and you are on the right track.

I'm south of Pittsburgh. Should I get the window fixed first, so they can see if it's in the wall? And about how much does this cost?

Originally Posted by PeppyGPhiB

Mold is a common issue in the PacNW, especially around windows. If your windows aren't well insulated or there is moisture coming through them, you're going to get mold. Previous advice here to use a strong bleach solution on the window area mold will probably do the trick. However, I would be concerned about the pantry mold, which is in an area that should be dry.

My out-laws live south of Seattle. They claim that mold is Washington's state flower!

[catfan]

Have your contractor determine why your window frame has rotted. More than likely the roof issue you mentioned. Plaster doesn't support mold growth like sheet rock does, but mold can grow on the surface in the paint and dirt if it is present. I would do all the remediation when the window is replaced, but be sure to address the water problem or you are wasting your money. Having a house closed for 6 years could contribute to the mold growth. Running your air conditioner and central heat is one way to remove moisture for the air. I always recommend a dehumidifier in humid climates. The one at my house runs constantly.

If you have the mold levels tested, be aware of 2 things:
1)There is no standard for an acceptable level of mold. Everyone is affected differently, just like other allergens in the home.
2) the testing company should test indoor and outdoor air. If levels are higher outdoors, you may not have that bad of issue indoors.

On another note, high humidity contributes to the growth of dust mites, which are a high allergy trigger for many people. Also cock roaches (gross) love high humidity and water. They are a known asthma trigger.

These 2 biological contaminants can cause health problems as well as mold can.

Good luck, Honeychile

[honeychile]

One (1) cockroach, and I torch the place & pitch a tent.