frequently asked questions
FAQ Topics
Jump to a section below:
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
What is indoor air quality and why does it matter?
Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the condition of the air inside a building and how it affects the health and comfort of occupants. Poor IAQ can contribute to respiratory issues, fatigue, headaches, allergies, and long-term health concerns. Because most people spend over 90% of their time indoors, air quality plays a critical role in overall wellness.
What causes poor indoor air quality?
Common contributors include:
• Mold and mildew growth
• Excess moisture and humidity
• Poor ventilation
• Dust, allergens, and pet dander
• Construction materials that trap moisture
• Crawl space contamination
• Water damage and leaks
How can I tell if my home or office has unhealthy air?
Warning signs include:
• Musty or earthy odors
• Stale or heavy indoor air
• Increased allergy or asthma symptoms indoors
• Frequent headaches or sinus irritation
• Condensation on windows or walls
• Uneven temperatures or humidity levels
MOLD
What is mold and why is it a problem?
Mold is a naturally occurring fungus that thrives in damp, poorly ventilated environments. Indoors, mold growth can damage building materials and negatively impact indoor air quality by releasing spores and microbial byproducts into the air.
Where is mold commonly found?
Mold is often hidden and may grow in:
• Crawl spaces
• Basements
• Attics
• Behind drywall
• Under flooring
• Around windows and doors
• Inside HVAC systems
• Exterior siding and trim exposed to moisture
How do I know if mold is present if I can’t see it?
Hidden mold may be indicated by:
• Persistent musty smells
• Warped floors or walls
• Peeling paint or bubbling drywall
• Elevated indoor humidity
• Health symptoms that improve when leaving the building
Is all mold dangerous?
Not all mold is considered toxic, but all indoor mold growth is considered undesirable. Any mold can impact air quality, trigger allergic reactions, and indicate underlying moisture problems that require professional attention.
Mold Side Effects & Health Concerns
What symptoms are associated with mold exposure?
Symptoms vary by individual but may include:
• Sneezing, coughing, or wheezing
• Sinus congestion
• Skin or eye irritation
• Fatigue or brain fog
• Headaches
• Worsening asthma or allergies
Who is most at risk?
Higher-risk groups include:
• Children and infants
• Elderly individuals
• People with asthma or respiratory conditions
• Individuals with compromised immune systems
Moisture & Water Damage
What causes moisture problems in buildings?
Moisture intrusion can result from:
• Plumbing leaks
• Roof damage
• Poor drainage or grading
• Foundation cracks
• Crawl space humidity
• Flooding or storm events
• Improper ventilation
Why is moisture control so important?
Uncontrolled moisture can lead to:
• Mold growth
• Wood rot and structural damage
• Pest infestations
• Insulation failure
• Reduced energy efficiency
• Long-term health risks
What are common signs of water or moisture damage?
• Musty odors
• Staining on walls or ceilings
• Soft or sagging floors
• Rusted metal components
• Efflorescence on foundation walls
• Exterior wood decay or peeling paint
Crawl Spaces
Why are crawl spaces critical to indoor air quality?
Air from crawl spaces often rises into living and working areas. If a crawl space contains moisture, mold, or microbial growth, those contaminants can circulate throughout the building, affecting overall air quality.
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What are signs of crawl space problems?
• Standing water or damp soil
• Sagging insulation
• Visible mold or fungal growth
• Musty smells entering the building
• Increased humidity indoors
Interior & Exterior Mold & Moisture
Can exterior moisture problems affect the inside of a building?
Yes. Exterior water intrusion through siding, foundations, roofs, or windows can migrate inward, leading to hidden mold growth, insulation damage, and indoor air quality issues.
How do anti-microbial building practices help?
Anti-microbial materials and coatings help resist mold growth, reduce microbial spread, and support healthier indoor environments when combined with proper moisture control and ventilation.
When to Call a Professional
When should I seek professional inspection or remediation?
You should consider professional help if:
• You smell persistent musty odors
• Mold is visible or suspected
• Water damage has occurred
• Health symptoms worsen indoors
• Buying or selling a property
• Previous repairs did not resolve the issue
What does a professional assessment typically include?
Visual inspection
• Moisture mapping
• Crawl space evaluation
• Identification of mold-prone materials
• Recommendations for remediation and prevention
Prevention & Long-Term Solutions
How can I prevent mold and moisture problems?
Control humidity levels
• Ensure proper drainage and grading
• Seal and protect crawl spaces
• Address leaks immediately
• Use mold-resistant and anti-microbial materials
• Maintain proper ventilation
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Our Interior and Exterior solutions, including Humidity Control, Fogging, Encapsulation, Insulation, Waterproofing, Crawl Space Insulation and Management, provide these effective preventative and maintenance measures.
If you suspect poor air quality, mold, or moisture damage in your home or office, professional evaluation is the safest way to protect both your building and the people inside it. Early detection and proper remediation can prevent costly repairs and long-term health concerns. Give us a call!