We are in the process of having a new vinyl floor installed. There is currently a dark Maroon colored stain just in front of our sliding glass door(almost runs the complete length of the door). In fact 2 others on our street have the same problem that we know of. All homes were built approx 10 years ago.Two different companies came for estimates and both seem to believe it is some sort of mold but are unsure. First of all could this be mold? will it seep through our new floor? How can this be fixed? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

You need to contact your home owners insurance to either send some one out or at least give you the names of some qualified "mold/ water treatment experts." I recently had some water damage and believe it or not, my ins. comp. was more worried about the mold and its possible damage if exposed to my home through incorrect handling, than my floor and kithchen cabinets. They told me the possible damages could exceed $80K + !!!! This could be the cost just to sanitize your home not to replace things, that may be irreplacable imagine those mold spores in your ventilation system! If you get the right adjuster, you may get every thing taken care of any way. Dont take the first guys word either, I found that about half the guys said not to worry just throw some bleach and water on it and call it good, ask them if they have had mold treatment classes. I ended up having to run dehumidfiers for a week and then tearing every thing up then running them another week to dry up the slab. I was told that my damage was not that extensive. They should be checking for moisture with a meter(it's actually a continuity tester thats very sensitive), and this will detect the moisture without tearing things apart and even though it feels dry to the touch, if your doing it yourself, most of these qualifeid guys will come back with there equipment to check for moisture.
Good luck, and keep your family safe.

 

I appreciate your reply. My wife actually called the insurance company and they immediately dismissed her claim once the word mold was mentioned, (if thats what this is). They claim mold is a gradual progression therefore not covered under any plan. We had two different companies come for an estimate of a new floor and both seemed to believe it to be mold but both admitted they were uncertain. The thought of an inspector crossed my mind, but it does seem like a safe precaution at the least. Thanks for your help.

 

certain forms of mold can begin to grow in as little as 24hrs. and your ins. comp. may be trying to save a buck. take your time and apply a little pressure because the ins. comp. is resposible unless you knowingly let the mold ruin your floor. You may want to mention the negative unhealthy side effects to your ins. comp.
As far as the clean up goes if you try and dry it with dehumidifiers, it may save alot of headaches(literally) .
Good Luck