Welcome to Homeworks Environmental Inspections on the Outer Banks

We are aware of the unique demand of maintaining your home or business on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.  Normal wear and tear is expected, but with constant sun, salt air, strong winds and storms, our properties aresubjected to greater and accelerateddeterioration.

We at Homeworks Environmental Solutions can offer answers concerning water infiltration, moisture damage and air quality in your home.  We have invested in and utilize the latest technology in the industry to provide the homeowner options which best meet the particular needs.

Many homes have a tendency to have a strong musty odor, especially when it has been closed or unused for a long period of time.  This is caused by excessive moisture trapped within the home, thus causing the bacterial growth. 

Biological contaminants include bacteria, molds, mildew, viruses, animal dander, house dust, mites, cockroaches, and pollen.  There are many sources of theses pollutants.  Pollens originate from plants; viruses are transmitted by people, animals, and soil and plant debris; and household pets are sources of saliva and animal dander.  The protein in urine from rats and mice is a potent allergen.  When it dries, it can become airborne.  Contaminated central air handling systems can become breeding grounds for mold, mildew, and other sources of biological contaminants and can then distribute these contaminants through the home.

By controlling the relative humidity level in a home, the growth of some sources of biologicals can be minimized.  A relative humidity of 30-50 percent is generally recommended for homes.  Standing water, water-damaged materials, or wet surfaces also serve as a breeding ground for molds, mildews, bacteria, and insects. House dust mites, the source of one of the most powerful biological allergens, grow in damp & warm environments.  These are the findings as reported by the EPA.

Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present.  There are molds that can grow on and within wood, paper, carpet and foods. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed.  There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.

Molds produce tiny spores to reproduce.  Mold spores waft through the indoor and outdoor air continually.  When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive.

There are many different kinds of mold.  Mold can produce allergens, toxins, and/or irritants.  Molds can cause discoloration and odor problems, deteriorate building materials, and lead to health problems such as asthma episodes and allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.

The key to mold control is moisture control.