How to Effectively Handle Mold Remediation in Your Home or Business

Eliminating the mold source and controlling indoor humidity are the key steps towards effective mold remediation. After identifying the cause, clear out and seal off the area. Switch off your HVAC and use dehumidifiers when tackling mold to prevent spores from spreading. Follow safety protocols and throw away the affected items. Document the damage for insurance records. For extensive damage,  hire professional services for safe mold removal.

How to Mould-Proof Your Property? The Definitive Guide For Best Practices and Techniques

Do you know that homes with inadequate ventilation are 70% more likely to experience mold recurrence after mold remediation? 47% of US residential buildings show signs of mold, while up to 45% of office buildings have leak issues, which can support mold growth. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), if the affected area is less than 10 square feet (3ft by 3ft), you can handle mold removal. If you are searching for  “mold removal near me”, read our guide below to protect yourself and prevent structural damage to your home and business.

Fast FactOnly 16% of mold remediation services have certification, such as IICRC Mold Remediation Specialist (MRS) and ACAC Certified Mold Remediator (CMR).

Here is your complete guide for mold remediation and how to prevent it from returning.

What’s Causing Mold?

Mold thrives in humid environments. The causes may involve:

• Poor indoor ventilation 
• High humidity
• Condensation
• Roof leaks
• Water seepage in walls and structure
• Plumbing problems
• Poor HVAC performance.

Did you know?The industry average for successful mold remediation is only 65%. Relying on anti-microbial fogging instead of physical source removal is the primary cause of failure.

How to Handle Mold Remediation?

• To prepare an area for mold remediation, follow the following steps.
• Prioritize your safety and wear a mask and protective clothing.
• Clear out the affected area and remove all furniture and belongings.
• Turn off your HVAC and open doors and windows for proper ventilation.
• Use a dehumidifier to control humidity levels.
• Remove all damaged items, including the drywall, carpets, or floorboards and discard properly.
• Clean and disinfect the area using anti-microbial solutions.

How do Certified Professional Services Ensure Effective Mold Removal?

• A certified mold remediation team seals and discards the mold-affected items safely to ensure your safety and contain the damage.
• Salvageable items are taken off-site to disinfect when professional services restore your property.
• HEPA vacuums and air scrubbers are used to remove water and clean the air.
• Professional services use industrial-grade equipment like moisture meters and infrared cameras to trace moisture levels and ensure your area is completely dry and safe to inhabit.
• Air movers and commercial dehumidifiers help dry all materials.
• Biocides and anti-microbial and anti-fungal solutions are used to remove all contaminants and spores.
• Clearance testing and post-cleaning inspection ensure your property is safe and habitable for the future.

A vast majority of professional services don’t follow the NAMP (National Association of Mold Professionals) guidelines for safe and systemic mold remediation. Check certification before hiring.

How to Prevent Mold From Returning?

• Keep your indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%.
• Ensure proper ventilation. Open windows and doors every day for at least 15 minutes, morning and evening.
• Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Make sure your insulation is intact and your HVAC is performing optimally.
• Address any leaks and plumbing issues without delay to prevent water seepage.
• Make sure your gutters and downspouts are clean and flowing.

Conclusion

The success of your mold remediation efforts depends heavily on how well the moisture is removed and the source is addressed. You can reduce the chances of mold recurrence by up to 80%  if you remove both the physical source and the moisture source. If the leaks and humidity levels aren’t fixed, you are in for big problems. Credible mold remediation services can help reduce the mold-related health risks and improve air quality and comfort, boosting well-being and property value.

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