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The subfloor framing typically is not visible for inspection due to floor coverings (carpet, tile, etc.).
Carpet, vinyl, and wood floors near water sources (kitchens, laundry, bathrooms, etc.) need to be monitored regularly for wet conditions where mold can thrive. Vinyl floors need to be monitored regularly for curling and deteriorated grout or caulking to prevent moisture from getting under the vinyl and creating wet conditions where mold can thrive. As vinyl ages, it has a tendency to curl at the edges. Even a very minor leak can destroy a wood floor very quickly and create wet conditions where mold can thrive. Home inspectors do not pull back floor coverings such as carpet to inspect the underside of the floor covering or the subflooring itself, so any mold or subfloor damage would not be detected during a visual home inspection. There is always the possibility that moisture has penetrated beneath any flooring covering, particularly in a kitchen at the dishwasher and sink, and in bathrooms at the bathtub/floor junction, and that any mold or subfloor damage would not be detected during a visual home inspection. Destructive testing or remodeling would be required for a conclusive determination. |
Recommend regular monitoring of all water supply lines and drainage pipes in areas where carpet, vinyl, or wood floors exist to help prevent moisture penetration into subfloor framing and resulting water damage or growth of mold and mildew. Recommend regular monitoring of grout and/or caulking at floor/wall junctions to help prevent moisture penetration into subfloor framing and resulting water damage or growth of mold and mildew. Click here for helpful information on mold and mold remediation. |
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