Mold, also known as mildew, is an airborne fungal organism that grows on damp, moist materials. Molds are a natural course of development in the environment and plays a vital role in nature by breaking-down dead organic matter including fallen trees and dead leaves; inside, mold also grows well by breaking-down drywall and wood framing. The most destructive types of mold cause health problems and damage to personal property because they can release harmful spores into the air. It is not unusual for people to carry mold spores on them and inhale them. A mold inspection is the best way to determine mold presence and get rid of it.
Mold Problems
When mold has set in, there may not be a mold problem but mold remediation is necessary to remove the mold. Mold remediation involves removing mold and eliminating all potential sources of mold spores. Mold removal is usually the responsibility of a mold removal company, but if you suspect mold in your home, do not attempt to remove it yourself, contact a mold removal company.
Inspections of mold should be conducted before any water damage occurs. Water damage can be the perfect host for mold, so it is important to detect mold growth as soon as any sign of mold is noted. During a mold inspection, professionals will look for evidence of mold growth including visible mold colonies, growing on the walls, ceiling, insulation, and baseboards; mold growing near plumbing or electrical fixtures; and hidden mold growths in interior spaces (such as attics and basements). For mold growth on surfaces, such as countertops, sinks, tiles, shower curtains, bathtubs, toilets, vents, pipe connections, and faucets, mold removal companies can use a variety of techniques to seal and protect surfaces from mold further. A mold inspection done immediately after a suspected mold problem helps prevent future occurrences.
Testing Your Home or Business for Mold
Mold testing is another must do before beginning any mold remediation work. If mold testing is performed before any remediation work begins, mold remediation can begin more quickly to prevent health risks and protect the safety of your family. mold testing should include samples of air, water, and soil for visible mold colonies. If mold is found in only one sampling, it will not be possible to determine if mold is present and mold testing cannot be done. Before mold testing can begin, mold testing must be completed on all samples taken to determine the presence of mold.
If mold testing determines that mold is present, a mold inspection company will discuss the mold removal options that are available. If water damage is involved, mold remediation professionals may suggest using a mold removal/removing system to keep the mold growth under control. In addition to water-based systems, drywall mold removal may also be an option. However, mold removal/removing companies may also advise against this, as mold spores are able to enter homes through non-water soluble solutions such as drywall adhesive.
Mold Remediation Company
When mold testing indicates mold is present, the mold inspection company will recommend mold remediation or abatement options that include cleaning or pumping. When mold removal is recommended, it is best to consult with mold removal specialists to determine the most effective mold removal method. Methods include: non-water based solutions, using mold removal/removing products, or completely removing the mold by a professional mold removal service. While some mold is non-toxic, others can cause serious health issues. Also, mold testing has shown that mold removal is an expensive and complicated process which can also have negative effects on your property and your health.
Once mold testing has determined that mold is present in your home, a mold company will often recommend the most cost effective mold remediation solution for your situation. Once mold removal and remediation are complete, mold inspection re-testing may be necessary in order to ensure mold has not made a return. As mold remediation methods vary, mold testing should occur periodically, usually after six months of initial mold detection. Monitoring mold activity can help mold companies determine whether the mold removal/remediation process is successful.
Mold Professionals
Whether or not a mold inspection is recommended, mold remediation should only be performed by certified mold inspectors. An inspector can identify areas of concern during the mold inspection and help determine the best mold remediation option based on the severity of the mold problem. They can also instruct the homeowner on the best mold prevention measures to take in the future. If testing shows mold is present, mold testing should be completed as soon as possible to prevent further mold issues. Once mold has been removed, homeowners should continue to do their part to prevent mold occurrences by regularly cleaning mold-prone areas and using mold-fighting products.
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