Comfenergy Case Studies: Cleaning a Moldy Basement Stairway - Hamilton, VA

Challenge

Moisture levels had gotten out of control in this basement addition of this historic Hamilton, VA home.  As a result, the wooden stairwell became covered with mold.  The homeowner was extremely allergic to mold and had a reaction to the level of colonization in this room of their basement.

Solution

First, proper containment was established including establishing negative air pressure within containment to control mold spores.

Second, we used HEPA vacuuming and wire brushes to remove as much of the growth as possible.  This was followed with the use of industrial strength hydrogen peroxide to chemically react with remaining organic matter.  The hydrogen peroxide both lifts remaining contamination from the substrate it is growing on, while "oxidizing" or fracturing the cell structure of any part of the mold that remained behind.  This renders the mold incapable of re-colonizing in the same space.  After chemical treatment, we HEPA vacuumed again in order to remove any debris.

Actions were taken to control moisture in the basement, while respecting the historic nature of this home that was over 100 years old.  The foundation was constructed of bricks made on site.  All of our actions were done in a manner to be 100% reversible should a future home owner want to restore the home to its original condition.

We are privileged to participate in renovating another historic structures.  Call Comfenergy today if you need help making your historic structure more comfortable to live in while maintaining the originality and structure of the home.