How Our Crew Handles Mold Remediation in Alexandria's Older Homes
Mold remediation in Alexandria, VA often means working inside walls that are a century old, or inside a condo where the moisture came from someone else's unit. Our crew finds the source, contains the area, removes contaminated materials and dries the structure so the growth doesn't return.
Humid Summers, Old Masonry
NOAA's 1991–2020 normals from the airport station a few miles away show July as both the hottest and wettest month, with about 42 inches of precipitation a year. Summer humidity soaks into brick, stone foundations and plaster, which then release it slowly. Nearly three in ten Alexandria homes were built before 1960, per Census estimates, and many have basements and crawl spaces that were never designed to stay dry.
Multi-Unit Buildings
About six in ten housing units in the city are in buildings with five or more units. In those buildings, a slow drain leak or a failed tub surround can feed growth in the ceiling below for months. We document the source and the extent separately so each owner and the association know where responsibility sits.
Our Method
- Moisture first. We use meters and thermal imaging to find the water feeding the growth and confirm whether it's still active.
- Containment. Plastic barriers and negative air pressure protect the rest of the house or building.
- Removal. Porous materials with growth, such as drywall, insulation and carpet, come out. Plaster and masonry are evaluated before cutting, because some can be cleaned in place.
- Cleaning. HEPA vacuuming and antimicrobial treatment of framing and hard surfaces.
- Drying. Dehumidification until readings match healthy areas.
- Restoration. Finishes go back once the space tests dry.
After a Flood or Backup
Basements that took on water during a flash flood or sewer backup are the most common starting point we see. If you're still dealing with the water itself, our sewage backup cleanup page covers the first steps.
For any other leak, return to our Alexandria team's water damage page.
Frequently asked questions
Can mold be removed from brick or stone?
Surface growth on masonry can usually be cleaned. The bigger job is reducing the moisture that keeps feeding it.
My landlord says it's just condensation. Should I worry?
Condensation can cause growth too. Persistent dampness and a musty smell are worth investigating, whatever the cause.
Do I need to move out?
Rarely. Containment keeps the work area separate, though we may ask you to avoid that room until we finish.