Understanding Mold Removal, Remediation, and Deodorization

6/30/2017 (Permalink)

Understanding Mold Removal, Remediation, and Deodorization

Any business premises or home can become mold-infested causing both home and commercial mold damage. More often than not, the introduction of water sources like plumbing or roof leaks is all it takes. This is because mold is found everywhere. It is a fungus that can quickly grow from tiny spores in the air. Apart from moisture, mold in home thrives under temperatures ranging from 40 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Understanding Mold

Mold spores enter homes through doors, windows, air conditioning and heating systems, pets or even on clothing. It thrives in moist areas. Once exposed the spores grow into colonies and release more spores if mitigation measures are not taken. The colonies eventually start producing irritants, allergens, a smelly odor and cause mold damage. Mold can thrive indoors under a higher-than-normal humidity.

Since most homes are prone to mold infestation, the trick is to get ahead of any infestation before it becomes harmful to people and property. Mold mitigation is also recommended for businesses to prevent commercial mold damage. While it is easy to remove mild infestations as soon as they are detected, disturbing big colonies is bad for health. Therefore, it is advisable to call in professional help for mold removal, remediation, and deodorization.

Mold Damage

Mold is a common nuisance that discolors drywall, darkens decks, blackens grout lines in bathrooms, rots damp wood, and causes blacks spots on the siding. It is a health hazard because it releases to the air microscopic pores, which cause allergic reactions, irritating odors, sneezing, and running noses.

Identifying Mold in Home

Mildew is the most visible mold-type. It starts out as tiny black spots but grows into larger colonies visible in grout lines of tile floors, on walls, and surfaces found around damp areas. While mildew does not damage home structures, other mold types cause rot. A smelly odor can be used to detect a high concentration of mold and if this occurs, hiring a mold removal specialist is pertinent since deodorization may be required.

The Difference between Mold Remediation and Removal

Mold removal is simply the process of getting rid of infestations when they are spotted. However, since its microscopic spores exist naturally both outdoors and indoors, complete mold removal it is not possible. As a result, it is pertinent to carry out remediation and mitigation procedures, which reduce mold damage.

Mold Removal, Remediation, and Deodorization Process

It is essential to learn that assessing and inspecting mold infestation requires more than looking at visible signs of colonies. This invisible intruder can fester for a while before discovery. Therefore, it is important to anticipate potential growth around damp and moist areas to prevent mold damage.

After locating all possible mold infestations, document everything and come up with a remediation plan. Here, it is pertinent to indicate the full extent of fungus infestation correctly. For a mold removal company, documentation helps manage liability issues in case of commercial mold damage. It also assists in identifying growth trends. The cleanup and mitigation process comprises the following steps:
• The first step is repairing the moisture problem to prevent the growth of new spores.
• Isolate the entire contaminated area by closing all windows and doors. For level two infestations, the use of six mil polyethylene sheeting and duct tape is recommended.
• Suppress dust by misting the entire contaminated area.
• Remove any wet or mold-damaged porous materials. Place all materials in thick plastic bags.
• Clean all wood surfaces and non-porous materials with mildew or fungus. Use wire brushes, disposable wipes and then scrub the surfaces with a detergent solution before rinsing with clean water.
• Vacuum all surfaces using a HEPA vacuum, and later wipe them with a clean cloth. Deodorization is also recommended to remove smelly odor.
• Dry the entire area using fans, dehumidifiers or by raising the indoor temperature. By this time there should be no smelly odor and no sign of mildew, fungus, or mold in home.

Mold in home is a big problem and should be handled immediately to prevent property damage. For commercial mold damage or severe infestation at home, it is important to hire a professional company to handle the problem. Mold causes health problems and property damage if its colonies are left to grow.
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