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Common questions
Why does my basement smell musty?
Usually mold or mildew growing on something damp: drywall, carpet, stored boxes or wood. Basements in West Michigan stay cool and pick up moisture from the soil, so humidity often runs high in summer.
Is black mold more dangerous than other mold?
Many molds look black, and you can't tell the type by looking. Any mold growing indoors can cause allergy and breathing symptoms, so all of it should be removed and the moisture fixed.
Can I clean mold with bleach?
On a small patch of hard surface, a cleaner can work. Bleach doesn't fix the moisture and doesn't reach into porous materials like drywall, so mold often comes back.
How much mold is too much to handle myself?
The EPA's rule of thumb is about 10 square feet, roughly a 3 foot by 3 foot patch. Bigger than that, or hidden inside walls, call a pro.
Should I test for mold first?
If you can see it, testing usually isn't needed before removal. Testing helps when you smell mold but can't find it, or to check the work afterwards.
Why is there frost or mold in my attic?
Warm, moist house air leaking into a cold attic condenses on the roof boards in winter. Bathroom fans venting into the attic make it worse.
Will homeowners insurance cover mold?
It depends on your policy and the cause. Sudden events like a burst pipe are more often covered than slow leaks or long-term humidity. Check with your insurer.
How do I keep mold from coming back?
Control moisture. Keep indoor humidity below about 50%, fix leaks quickly, keep gutters and downspouts working, run bathroom fans, and test your sump pump every spring.
How long does mold take to grow after water damage?
Mold can start growing on wet materials within 24 to 48 hours, so dry things out fast after a leak.
Do you do flood cleanup?
We can help with mold after leaks and small floods. For large flood or sewage cleanup, tell us when you call and we'll point you the right way.