A slow refrigerator supply line leak in a Santa Barbara home caused moisture damage behind the appliance and nearby cabinets. Musty odors prompted an inspection even though the homeowners had not seen a puddle.
The Restoration Work
Investigating the Musty Smell
Moving the refrigerator exposed stained drywall and dark spotting on framing. The team used thermal imaging to identify temperature patterns for closer investigation, then checked the materials with moisture readings and drywall probes. The inspection found wet gypsum near the base of the wall, swollen cabinet backs and rusted fasteners. These observations helped define the damage beyond the appliance itself.
Reaching and Cleaning the Affected Area
Plastic barriers and negative-air equipment separated the work zone. Wet drywall was removed, and two storage cabinets were detached to reach concealed materials. Exposed wood was prepared and cleaned, with treatment included in the remediation scope.
Dehumidifiers and air movers addressed retained moisture after the affected materials were exposed. The sequence connected inspection, access, removal, cleaning and drying. The absence of a puddle had not meant the surrounding wall and cabinetry were dry; the musty smell led to the more detailed assessment.
What This Project Shows
The absence of a visible puddle did not rule out moisture behind the refrigerator and cabinets. In this project, musty odors led to inspection of concealed materials and a defined removal, cleaning and drying scope.
Project Photos
Mold Remediation in Santa Barbara
See our Mold Remediation in Santa Barbara service to learn about the next step for a similar problem. Call (805) 443-3232 to discuss your property, or contact our team.
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