Mold Remediation or Mold Removal – What’s Even the Difference?
When it comes to things that are biohazardous, remains and waste aren’t the only things to worry about. Another frequent problem for many people, especially in more wet environments is mold. Left unchecked and mold can grow past its normal, natural levels and create a hazardous living conditions. So, what needs to happen then? Is it mold removal or mold remediation, and what’s the difference anyway? This time on The BioClean Team blog we’re going to give you the low down on just that!
Mold Remediation or Mold Removal?
Mold Removal
First things first, mold spores exist naturally just about everywhere. They are microscopic, indoor and outdoors and totally normal. To try and ‘remove’ all the mold is just downright impossible and if someone is trying to guarantee that they can remove it all, well that’s just not true. More likely they are talking about removing the excessive mold growth and colonies which is when the mold gets to a point of being hazardous. No, the real goal (and approach) is mold remediation!
Mold Remediation
Mold remediation is a whole process by which a mold problem is addressed. It’s not just taking the moldy chair or square of drywall outside into the dumpster. It involves inspection, containment, air filtration, removal of mold and mold-infested items and materials, cleaning, and finally restoration.
Before any remediation can start in earnest, the first thing that needs to be tackled is the source of the excess moisture. If that is left untreated, the mold will return. Follow your nose, look for signs of water damage, listen for drips. There may be mold growing hidden from view, we can use a few different tools and techniques to detect these hidden mold and sources of moisture.
After the source of the moisture has been addressed then the mold remediation can truly begin.
Mold Containment
The first step proper is containing the mold where it is, and preventing any further spread. Negative air chambers can do this, created using physical barriers and using negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from pushing out of the affected areas during clean up. All HVAC systems will also be turned off at this stage to stop the spread and exchange of air throughout the home or building.
Air Filtration
With containment in effect it’s time for specialized air scrubbers, filters, and HEPA vacuums to start the process of clearing the air of mold spores while the rest of the work occurs. This is an ongoing step in the mold remediation process.
Mold Removal
Using antifungal and -microbial treatments, the mold remediation technicians treat, eliminate, and remove mold colonies, killing the ones that are there and preventing any new colonies from cropping up. Any porous material, things like carpet, drywall, or furniture, that have been the host to serious growth of mold colonies will need to be removed.
Cleaning
Sure, it might sound simple but this is a crucial step in the remediation process! Using different best practices, the crew sanitizes all of your furniture, curtains, clothing, decorations and more. Again, all to clear away any currently existing mold. Deodorization takes place here too, using special fogging equipment to clear away any lingering mold smell.
Restoration
The level of restoration needed will depend on how long the mold has grown unchecked and the specific conditions of the space. Drywall, subfloors, and other materials may need to be removed completely which will then require restorative work such as replacing, painting, installing new carpet, or others!
Unsure if you have a mold problem? Mold typically produces a strong, musty odor. Smell that, follow your nose and you find your mold problem areas quick.
Call The BioClean Team today and we’ll remediate your space to safe conditions quickly and correctly.
