The main concern that most homeowners have is the cost of mold removal. Since mold removal is expensive, we tend to look for the best deal. However, be wary of contractors or friends that offer to take care of your mold, especially if they lack training or experience.
Do not fall for the sales pitch that mold can be removed with a machine or ozone that kills mold. One other type of claim by some removal companies is that they can just fog your home or spray a bunch of chemicals and the mold will magically disappear. Make sure that your mold remediation professional employs the following 8 Step Mold Remediation Process to ensure a long-term fix.
Step 1: Assess the Source of the Contamination
During the mold inspection, the professional consultant will determine which infiltrating water has resulted in mold growth. The professional consultant will also identify the extent of the mold growth and ensure that it can be addressed in all areas with care. The next step is to create a work plan, also known as a scope of work. If the mold inspector you hire for the initial inspection performs the remediation work, a Third Party should be hired to do the post-remediation verification, which is step 8 in the process.
Step 2: Identify the Mold Species
As part of the mold inspection, samples of the mold are taken using swabs or tape samples. Air quality tests may also be performed. The samples are then sent to an accredited laboratory, which will provide a report outlining the species of mold present.
This report is important for three main reasons:
This report is essential because it helps the mold remediation professional determine the level of danger. Some mold species, such as stachybotrys, pose greater threats and may require additional safety measures to protect the occupants of a property.
Determining the species also allows us to determine the most cost-effective way to resolve the mold problem.
In addition, identifying the species can help health care professionals determine whether health concerns may be related to mold contamination.
Step 3: Scope of Work
Once the investigation is complete, the remediation plan/scope of work can be completed. This step is crucial, as it determines what caused the mold and the necessary safety protocols for the remediation to be successful.
Step 4: Containment, Decontamination Chambers, and Negative Air
Negative air pressure is set and regularly monitored to prevent cross-contamination of mold spores and mycotoxins in other areas of the home. As the mold removal and remediation process are initiated, the spore counts increase 10 to 100 times. Proper procedures, containment, and HEPA filtration equipment are required to prevent cross-contamination. Without these controls, the situation can become much worse than what was initially present.
Step 5: Removal of Mold
The mold is removed once the containment and decontamination chamber is set up. Mold-damaged materials such as drywall, carpet, underlay, and other porous materials are removed and disposed of. Non-porous and some semi-porous materials can be cleaned and decontaminated. Damaged or moldy materials that are removed are encapsulated in plastic before removal from the containment to prevent cross-contamination.
Step 6: Odor Removal
Mold can cause an unpleasant smell such as a musty basement smell. Carbon filters are required to eliminate offensive odors from the air during the remediation process. Specialized treatments and air cleaners may be required to ensure the odors do not return in the future.
Step 7: Cleaning, HEPA Vacuuming, and Air Scrubbing
Once the mold-contaminated materials are removed, the area must be thoroughly cleaned with antimicrobial treatments and HEPA vacuuming to remove any remaining mold spores. The air must also be sprayed and cleaned to remove mold spores and mycotoxins using approved commercial products.
Step 8: Post Remediation Verification
In order for the environment to return to a normal fungal ecology suitable for habitation, an approved third party must conduct a final clearance investigation that includes a visual inspection using specialized instrumentation and a full range of air quality and surface sample analysis.
If you think you have mold, call us, 833 766 3932, or contact us via e-mail for further assistance.
MELVYN HUCKABY
Lead Claims Consultant, IICRC Certified
APD Roofing Houston
APRIL C
Office Manager
Marketing Assistant
APD Roofing