Mold is prevalent in damp, musty conditions and is common in dark, damp areas. Many homes often provide a perfect breeding ground for this persistent home invader. From basements to carpets, air ducts, roof tiles, and even clothing, mold can find its way into many places in your home, causing property damage and aggravating allergies, respiratory conditions, and other serious health hazards. If you think your home has a mold problem, you’ll want to hire a professional mold remediation company to take care of it. When looking for a mold remediation company, make sure they can answer the following questions.
Question #1 – Where do houses have mold and how can it be found?Many homes in our humid climate will show mold on attic ceiling boards, inside HVAC systems and air ducts, and in foundations, among other places. If you suspect mold in your home, call a professional mold remediation company. Make sure they offer a free visual inspection, as this will allow you to discuss your problem with the technician and get an idea of the type of service they are likely to provide. They should check for water leaks, damp spots and more. They may use moisture meters to detect hidden problems or even a borescope to search ductwork and wall spaces. If mold is found, the technician may recommend other tests, such as air sampling and tape or swab sampling, to ensure the air quality is good and there is no mold hiding in carpets or ductwork.
Question #2 – Why do I have mold?
Mold is a natural part of the outdoor environment; it is necessary to decompose organic matter such as leaves and plant material. When it reproduces, it leaves the spores adrift in the air to settle and grow. These spores will not grow without moisture, which can be the result of poor grading on your property, poor drainage, clogged downspouts, humid air, flooding, lack of a vapor barrier in a crawl space, and water leaks in your home. Once it finds the right environment, it needs food to grow. Mold will use carpet, wood, paper, cotton, and other substances to sustain it, as long as there is also water and temperatures between 32 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Stagnant air is also a plus for mold, which is why today’s super-efficient homes are particularly susceptible.
Question #3 – How do I get rid of mold?
It is necessary not only to clean the mold, but also to remove the moisture that is acting as a breeding ground. A professional can use a HEPA vacuum for wet as well as sheet layers for containment purposes. They may also use biocides, foggers, or other specialized equipment to kill existing mold. They will then remove the water source as appropriate (fix drainage, fix leaks, provide adequate ventilation, etc.)
Question #4: After mold is removed, how do I refinish my home?
A skilled mold remediation company can remove and replace damaged walls, floors, cabinets, carpets, or any material. They can work with insurance companies, where appropriate, and will be able to restore the affected area within a reasonable period of time.