When Dennis Shean first contacted us in March 2024, he needed help assessing mold and water damage in his New Kensington home. Our estimator, Matt Davis, conducted an initial inspection and provided a remediation estimate. Unfortunately, during this time, Mr. Shean’s wife was seriously ill and later passed away in September. Understandably, the project was put on hold until the family had time to grieve. When Mr. Shean reached out again in October, the damage had advanced, and a new inspection confirmed a much more extensive mold infestation requiring immediate and comprehensive remediation and repair.
Basement Mold Removal and Content Handling
The unfinished basement had become heavily infested with mold. Black mold growth was clearly visible on the masonry walls and spreading across the wood floor joists — both common food sources for mold in damp environments. The area was filled with stored contents, including many cardboard boxes and paper files from Mr. Shean’s former law practice, which contributed significantly to mold growth.
Key actions taken:
- Inspected and documented visible black mold across basement walls and joists
- Identified organic material (cardboard, paper) fueling mold reproduction
- Handled and removed all contents to gain access to infected surfaces
- Treated the entire basement structure with mold remediation protocols
This work was especially critical because the infestation had advanced due to delays, which is common when mold is left unchecked — it spreads, reproduces, and worsens over time.
Kitchen Ceiling Demolition and Plaster Repair
Water damage from a second-floor bathroom leak had caused extensive hidden mold within the kitchen ceiling on the first floor. During our second inspection, it was clear that the mold had spread behind the plaster, into the insulation, and along the wooden ceiling structure. Removal of the entire ceiling was required to stop the spread.
Steps included:
- Full demolition of the mold-contaminated kitchen ceiling
- Replacement of insulation and all mold-affected building materials
- Installation of new plasterboard by our third-party specialists, Sekerka Plastering
This wasn’t standard drywall — the ceiling was traditional plaster, requiring experienced tradespeople to match the original finish.
Multi-Room Mold Remediation and Structural Repair
In addition to the basement and kitchen, a second room on the first floor was now showing signs of mold and water damage. We expanded our scope to address this new area as well, ensuring all mold was removed and the structure was properly restored.
The updated scope of work included:
- Expanded mold treatment in a second first-floor room
- Additional demolition, drying, and environmental cleaning
- Painting and finishing work by our in-house restoration team
With the help of both our mold remediation and repair divisions, we provided an all-in-one solution for Mr. Shean’s home.
Basement Waterproofing and Final Restoration
To help prevent future issues, we recommended applying a waterproof coating to the basement walls. Mr. Shean agreed, and we used DRYLOK paint throughout the basement to seal and protect against future moisture.
Final project details:
- DRYLOK waterproofing paint applied to interior basement walls
- Project timeline: October 15 – October 28, 2024 (13 days total)
- Mold remediation crew led by Nathan Nacarotto
- Additional support from our in-house restoration and painting teams
- Total project cost: $13,968 (original estimate of $7,950 + $6,018 in additional work)
We documented the entire job with before-and-after photos, showing the full transformation of the space.
Complete Mold Remediation and Restoration Services in New Kensington, PA
This New Kensington mold remediation project reflects the kind of full-service mold and water damage jobs we handle on a regular basis. When customers hire us, they’re not just getting a mold cleanup crew — they’re hiring a team that understands every phase of remediation, restoration, and long-term prevention. From handling contents and performing demolition to rebuilding and waterproofing, we offer a one-stop solution with a focus on health, safety, and property value.
If your home has signs of mold or water damage, call the trusted experts at Mold Men of Pittsburgh. Our full-service team is ready to help you restore your property safely, thoroughly, and professionally.
