Mold
What is Mold?
Mold is a type of fungus that grows in the form of multicellular filaments called hyphae. It's commonly found in damp, warm, and humid environments and can grow on a variety of surfaces including:
● Food (like bread, cheese, or fruit)
● Walls
● Wood
● Carpet
● Insulation materials
Key Facts About Mold:
Reproduction: Mold reproduces via spores, which are microscopic and can float through the air. These spores can survive in harsh conditions and start growing when they land on a moist surface.
Colors: Mold can be black, white, green, blue, or even orange, depending on the species.
Common types:
Aspergillus
Penicillium
Cladosporium
Stachybotrys chartarum (also known as "black mold") Health
Health Effects:
Exposure to mold can cause health issues, especially for people who are allergic, have asthma, or have weakened immune systems.
Common symptoms include:
Sneezing
Runny or stuffy nose
Coughing
Skin rashes
Eye irritation
In severe cases: respiratory infections or asthma attacks
Where Mold Thrives:
Leaky pipes or roofs
Basements
Bathrooms
Flood-damaged buildings
Areas with poor ventilation
What is Mold Remediation?
Mold remediation is the professional process of identifying, removing, cleaning, and preventing mold growth in buildings or homes. It goes beyond just killing or wiping away mold—it addresses the root cause (moisture) and ensures the space is safe, clean, and mold-free long-term. Definition (Simple Version)
Definition (Simple Version)
Mold remediation = Mold removal + moisture control + prevention + cleanup.
Why Mold Remediation Is Necessary?
Mold can damage structures: It eats away at drywall, wood, and insulation.
Mold poses health risks: Especially for people with asthma, allergies, or weak immune systems.
Just cleaning visible mold is not enough: Spores can spread and return if the underlying issue isn't fixed. BLEACH DOES NOT KILL MOLD!
When Is Mold Remediation Needed?
Call a pro if:
You smell mold but can’t see it
Mold is inside walls, HVAC systems, or after flooding
People in the home have mold-related symptoms
You're preparing to sell or rent the property
Mold Remediation vs. Mold Removal
Term - What It Means
Mold Removal - Just cleaning or cutting out visible mold
Mold Remediation - A full process including cleaning, repair, and prevention
Remediation ensures the mold doesn't return—and makes the area safe for living.
Professional mold removal—often called mold remediation—is a structured, multi-step process designed to eliminate mold safely, thoroughly, and in a way that prevents it from returning.
Here’s how it typically works:
1. Initial Inspection and Assessment
A certified mold professional inspects the property to:
Identify the extent of mold growth
Locate the source of moisture
Determine the type of mold (sometimes lab testing is used)
Create a remediation plan and estimate
Tip: Reputable companies often use tools like moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, or air sampling for accuracy.
2. Containment Setup
To prevent spores from spreading:
Plastic sheeting (like polyethylene) is used to seal off the affected area.
Negative air pressure machines pull contaminated air out.
Workers use HEPA-filtered air scrubbers.
This is critical to protect the rest of the home—especially HVAC systems.
3. Mold Removal
The actual removal method depends on the surface type:
Porous materials (e.g., drywall, insulation, carpet) are usually removed and discarded.
Non-porous and semi-porous surfaces (wood, metal, tile) are scrubbed, sanded, and treated with antimicrobial solutions.
Tools & techniques used:
HEPA vacuums
Wire brushes and sanding
Antifungal or biocide sprays (EPA-registered)
4. Air Filtration
Even after cleaning, spores may linger in the air.
HEPA air scrubbers are run for 24–48 hours to clean indoor air.
In some cases, HVAC systems may also need to be cleaned and filtered.
5. Moisture Correction
Mold can't return unless moisture returns.
Professionals will:
Repair leaks (plumbing, roofing, windows, etc.)
Seal foundation or ventilation issues
Recommend dehumidifiers if needed
Improve airflow or insulation
6. Post-Remediation Testing (Clearance Testing)
Some companies provide third-party testing to confirm the area is clean.
Air and surface samples may be taken
A “clearance certificate” may be issued (especially important for real estate or insurance claims)
This step is crucial for peace of mind and documentation.