1. Mold Inspection

Before we do anything, our team carries out a thorough investigation of the area. Our people determine what species of mold is present, how extensive the spread is, check the spore levels in the air, and try to get a scope on the overall mold problem. Part of the inspection is to gauge what the natural mold level should be and make a plan to get it back.

The initial mold inspection is free of charge. After the first look around, our crew member shares the findings with you and tells you whether or not a more invasive test is needed. They then explain how the process would go and what it is likely to cost and they also advise on the EPA and CDC mold standards and state laws if it is a commercial space and let you know if it is safe to remain in the area. Now, the real job begins.

2. Finding the Source of the Mold

First things first, the root of the mold problem must be located. Most mold needs moisture to thrive and is usually found on damp surfaces. The bathroom is a prime location for pesky mold, most often in the shower, bathtub, or between tiles. Additionally, anywhere wood surfaces come into contact with moisture somehow are also prone to mold problems. In the walls, under floorboards, and in kitchen cupboards are other common moldy spots.

Without knowing the source, it is impossible to truly solve the problem. Even if you remove all the signs of mold, it is only going to reappear soon after. Luckily, our team uses state-of-the-art equipment to pinpoint exactly where the mold source is. Thermal imaging, moisture detection tools, and other nifty gadgets help us quickly find the proverbial “X.” Once the spot has been marked, our team fixes the problem so mold can’t rear its ugly head again in the future.

3. Halting the Spread of Mold

As well as finding and fixing the source of the problem, we also take steps to stop any current mold growth in its tracks. Antimicrobial treatment can kill spores and inhibit any new colonies appearing on unaffected damp surfaces. Doing this allows our team to get ahead of the situation and ultimately leads to more successful mold remediation.

4. Isolation and Containment

To further prevent the mold from growing into new areas, all contaminated spaces are isolated to contain the spores. We do this by sealing off the affected areas from the rest of the building. If the mold is one room of a house, all windows and doors are closed and covered with specialized sheeting. The crew members also seal off open areas using as much as possible using the same sheets.

HVAC systems are temporarily shut down in the area to stop mold spores from being circulated further, and nobody is allowed to enter without suitable safety gear. Protective gloves and clothing are worn, and special detergents are applied before entering non-mold contaminated areas.

5. Air Quality Control

Loose airborne mold spores are the leading danger of further spreads and are also a big part of what causes health issues. During the process, spores are disturbed, and there is no way to stop them from getting into the air. To combat this issue, we run specialized filters to clean the air and trap and dislodged spores. Because the areas where mold is present are isolated, these filtration systems can catch spores easily and stop the spread.

Filters with a HEPA seal make sure nothing escapes. Limiting the free spores in the air is essential to keep the environment as clean as possible and prevents them from settling somewhere else. The specialized equipment we use traps all offending mold particles inside the vacuum canister.

6. Removing Mold-Affected Materials

Wherever possible, all materials that have been affected are carefully removed. Anything that shows signs of mold that is not an integral part of the building’s structure and cannot be fully cleaned is taken out. These items often include drywall, carpet, insulation, wood trim, soft furnishings, and floorboards.

The removal of offending items is a specialized project. It is a job that requires high efficiency and a professional level of care. When we remove anything contaminated by mold, the air is tested repeatedly to catch any spores and avoid further spreading. Specially designed plastic bags seal the spores inside, and larger items are wrapped in similar materials.

In a project where there is mold growing across an area larger than 10 square feet, a licensed environmental hygienist is on-site to ensure compliance with all regulations. Only after they give their seal of approval can we continue with the job.

7. Cleanup

We clean any materials and structural items that cannot be removed. First, the team must vacuum any moldy surfaces to get rid of the visible mold. A thorough scrub with a detergent solution and specialized chemicals is the next step. Non-porous materials are also made clean through a series of deep treatments. A mold-killing bleach solution is left on the surfaces for a while to ensure that no rogue spores survive.

Using a vacuum with a specialized seal, we go over any wall that was contaminated. We also vacuum the entire area within the isolation zone. Deodorants, detergents, and disinfectants are also applied and left to soak in and kill the mold.

All cleaning must match the industry standards set by the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) and has to be approved by an environmental hygienist in mold areas of more than 10 square feet.

8. Testing the Mold Levels

Mold remediation is not about trying to get rid of every speck of mold in the atmosphere; it only aims to return the levels to their natural, healthy state. After the removal and cleanup process is complete, our team runs in-depth air testing. They do this to ensure the correct levels have been restored. If there are more mold spores than there should be, the air filtration is left to run longer, and a possible second cleanup could be on the cards. Luckily, our mold remediation crew uses the most advanced equipment and methods to make sure they get it clean enough the first time around.

9. Drying Out the Area

Moisture is the enemy in mold remediation, which is why the entire area must be dried out before the job is considered complete. Because we locate and repair the source of the mold problem before we start, there should be no more damp patches at the end of the process. It can take time for all the walls and surfaces to be sufficiently dry, so we may bring in some equipment to speed it up. In areas over 10 square feet, dehumidifiers, fans, and heaters come in very handy.

10. Restoration: Repair and Replace

A crucial part of our mold remediation process is restoration. When you hire our team, you hire us for the whole job. That means that we help repair any leftover mold damage and replace any building materials we had to remove. Drywall, wood trim, or other surfaces that were damaged are all part of our restoration promise.

Mold cleanup does not end when the mold is gone- it ends when the area is as clean as can be and is as close to its original state as possible. Our restoration service aims to provide a professional level of building and cleaning. After the extensive mold removal process, a quick vacuum and wall wipe down is not so big an add-on!

These restoration services are an essential part of how our company does things. We want homeowners to feel completely comfortable in their house by the time we leave. As mold remediation professionals, we pride ourselves on being the best at what we do, and that includes going the extra mile for our clients.

Mold on Drywall

Drywall is one of the most common places to find mold, but fortunately, it is also easy to remove. Mold inside drywall may rot insulation and cause paint to crack or bubble, often appearing first in the corners. A combination of vinegar, bleach, and baking soda can tackle minor mold outbreaks on drywall, but it is better to remove badly contaminated areas. The removal and restoration of drywall is often a big part of the mold remediation process.

Mold on Soft Materials

As far as home furnishing goes, there are few things worse than moldy fabric. Be it curtains, cushions, bedsheets, or upholstery, there is something truly unsettling about it. The best course of action is the removal of offending items. If they are items you would rather keep, or you prefer restoration to a replacement, use the recommended home remedies. Bleach should not be used for moldy soft furnishing. Instead, go down the baking soda and vinegar route.

Mold on Wood

Moldy wood poses a real risk to the safety of a building. If left to fester for too long it can rot the core, meaning we must remove the whole thing. This is not only a major restoration project, but it is also a sure-fire way to bring on a lot of costs. If caught early enough, we can successfully remove mold from wood, and bleach works wonders to remove the stains.

Mold in Air Ducts

HVAC systems of any kind are prone to mold if not regularly maintained. Although most often found around the entrance, it can also grow around the ventilation seal. It costs a lot of money to replace an entire HVAC system, and even professional mold removal is not easy. Regular cleaning, vacuuming, and treating with some anti-mold home remedies are the best way to keep moldy vents at bay.

Mold on Tiles

Mold is more likely to grow between tiles or behind them rather than on the surface. If the tiles were not well installed, to begin with, there may be hidden space where moisture has gathered and created a dream home for mold spores. If you remove the tiles, it is easier to clear the cause of the problem, rather than repeatedly cleaning with bleach (which does not kill the spores!). A professional mold removal company can do this safely, quickly, and cleanly. We also help with the tile restoration after we remove mold from behind them.

The potential health side effects associated with some species of mold are well documented. Everyone has heard of the infamous black mold and the problems it brings, but it is not alone. Many mold species have adverse effects on the human body and also impact animals.

Some of the most common health issues caused by mold spores are:

• Asthma-like symptoms and attacks
• Skin rashes and hives
• Itchy eyes and throat
• Fever and hePLEASEDELETEches
• Allergic reactions
• Persistent coughing
• Nosebleeds

Toxic Mold Side Effects

Toxic black mold and other dangerous species can have much more severe effects, including:

• Lung infections
• Breathing problems
• Internal bleeding
• Extreme fatigue

It all sounds scary, but if handled properly, these problems are non-starters. If you notice any mold growth in your property, get rid of it as soon as possible. Hiring mold remediation professionals is the best way to ensure all traces of potentially harmful mold are gone and that the natural levels are restored.

Commercial property owners must also be aware of regulations and fines relating to mold exposure. It is your responsibility to keep up to date with laws and ensure a safe environment for your staff and customers. At the first sign of a mold problem, you should be thinking about hiring a mold remediation company, at the very least, to do a site inspection.

CDC and EPA: Opinion on Mold

Both the CDC and EPA provide extensive material on how to deal with mold and why mold removal is recommended in commercial areas. There are currently no federal laws enforcing mold removal and remediation, but many states have regulations and rules regarding the issue.

What States Have Mold Removal Laws?

• Texas
• Illinois
• Maryland
• Florida
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Oklahoma
• Maine
• New York
• Tennessee
• New Hampshire

Mold is completely natural and is not always dangerous. However, it is not ever something any of us want in our house or place of work. There are more than 100,000 types of mold spores, each with its own unique qualities. Most of them could never find their way inside your house, but it is important to know a little about the ones that can.

The harmful species of mold spores that commonly grow in the house fall into three categories:

• Allergenic: These spores can create allergies and cause reactions. They also trigger health issues such as asthma and hayfever.
• Pathogenic: Troublesome for people with a weak immune system, pathogenic mold spores contribute to long-term illnesses.
• Toxigenic: Toxic mold is the most dangerous form and can lead to potentially life-threatening health issues.

Being able to identify what mold is growing in your house or workplace and knowing the dangers associated with it could make a difference. Here is a brief overview of the 10 most common household molds.

Before any mold remediation can begin, you need to arrange an inspection. This is a fairly simple stage of the process and is one of the services we offer free of charge. The idea is to confirm if mold is present, where it is, and how big the problem is. The results of the inspection help you decide whether or not hiring a professional mold remediation team is on the cards.

How Does Mold Testing Work?

The initial inspection is a chance for us to get an idea of the scope of any mold damage. It also lets us determine if any dangerous spores, such as black mold, are present. We begin with simple equipment to test the air quality and moisture levels and collect mold samples for lab testing. If during this time, we see the need for a more thorough search, we can arrange a more large-scale project.

The purpose of this could be to remove drywall or wood surfaces (floorboards, paneling, etc.) to get a better idea of the root of the problem. Because this stage of the project requires us to wear protective clothing and gloves as well as putting up a safety seal around the area, it is not possible at the first inspection. After confirming all mold species present, the extent of the mold damage, and the cause of the problem, we estimate the time and cost of the project. If you decide on hiring us, we commence the mold remediation.

When to Call the Mold Testing Professionals

Like mold remediation, you should organize an inspection whenever you have a concern. Where it differs from remediation is the circumstances. Most people do not think about hiring professional services to remove mold until they see a problem. An inspection, however, is a worthy venture even for the slightest suspicion.

Some of the reasons you may want to arrange a mold inspection include:

• You are moving to a property that has been closed for a long time, and you want to be aware of any festering black mold or other toxic species before you go in.
• If you are working on the restoration or renovation of an old building, you probably want to check for mold damage before you start. Locating any excess moisture in the wood, walls, or any other structural elements is essential. Doing so early in the process could save you a lot of costs later on.
• Early signs of mold are showing, and you want to nip it in the bud. You can also want to get some tips on how to get rid of the problem.
• Water damage after a flood or storm often leads to problems, including dangerous black mold. If you have experienced this with your property, you may want to arrange an inspection to kick start the restoration and cleanup process.
• When buying a property, private or commercial, many people want to check for any moldy secrets before signing on the dotted line.

You don’t need to run out and spend a fortune on high-efficiency professional cleanup gear; in fact, the chances are you already have something suitable at home. Here are some tips on what simple household items can help you clean a moldy surface safely and hassle-free.

Hand-held Vacuum

Even the professionals use a vacuum on the walls during mold remediation because of how effective it is. Although they use fancy equipment, a small hand-held vacuum does the job if you only have a minor mold problem. Going over the wall after you scrub and wash it with your chosen solution helps to get rid of any leftover spores still clinging to the surface.

Ideally, try to find a vacuum with a HEPA filter or at least a formidable seal to avoid further mold dispersion. Make sure to empty the container carefully while wearing gloves and in an open-air space rather than indoors.

Pointed Scrub Brush

It is much easier to scrub between tiles and remove mold from tight corners when the brush is pointed. Scrub brushes with narrow tips let you work your chosen detergent solution into every little spot to make sure the wall is really clean. The length of bristles is not so important as long as they are firm enough to scrub with a bit of elbow grease behind them. Remember to wear gloves throughout the process.

You can buy brushes specifically designed for cleaning mold off of walls. You can pick based on the type of surface your contaminated wall has and buy a product made for it. That being said, an everyday cleaning brush is an equally effective solution.

Plastic Sheets and Duct Tape

The biggest problem when cleaning moldy walls is the risk of disturbing the spores and spreading them further. It is impossible to remove mold without this happening, which is why you should always seal off the area as much as you can. This is even more essential if you suspect you may have the early stages of black mold or other toxic species.

Additionally, the best solution for containing the spores during the DIY removal process is to buy materials similar to what the professionals would use. Heavy plastic sheets are easy to find in hardware stores, and who doesn’t have an old roll of duct tape lying around somewhere? It may not be exactly like a professional mold remediation job, but it makes a difference.

Homeowners and commercial property operators dread the day they discover mold in their buildings. Finding mold in your home is a problem, but there is a solution. The professional mold removal and remediation services we offer can clear up contamination and return the air quality and living conditions to where they should be.

Key Takeaways

• Not all mold is toxic- don’t panic!
• Small moldy patches can be handled without professional help using simple products and materials you probably already have a home.
• Bleach does not kill mold: it only works for surface removal.
• Mold patches that cover more than 10 square feet must undergo professional remediation and removal.
• Keep the air flow through your property strong and consistent. Have regular maintenance checks on the building’s air ducts and ventilation systems if you are in a commercial space.
• Remove wet materials before they have a chance to become moldy.
• Always seal off an area before attempting to remove mold.
• Professional mold removal and mold remediation services are the best way to ensure healthy mold levels- the costs are lower than the long-term cost to your wellbeing.
• Inspection-Testing-Removal-Remediation-Clear up-Restoration: when it comes to mold, we do it all!