If you find you are faced with every homeowners nightmare – a mold infestation in your home, it is very important to engage the services of a qualified mold removal company (also called mold remediation companies). Professionals should be called in if the problem is the result of a sudden event such as a flood or hurricane which effects a large part of your house. Mold can begin growing within hours and you need quick action to avoid trouble. A good mold removal company will provide mold containment, mold filtration, mold removal, and cleanup and testing at the completion of the job. This article will highlight the main tasks a company should perform on your home in the event of an outbreak.
The company should first address the areas that have been contaminated and isolate them from the rest of the house as mold spreads very quickly by releasing spores to the air. These spores will land on any area that is moist and will support them. Once contained, the company will next address the air quality.
Along with the spores that are sent in to the air to reproduce the colony, mold also gives off gases during their digestive process. This is what creates the musty smell you notice immediately upon entering a space that has a problem. Depending on the type of mold, these gases can be toxic and can cause various health problems if inhaled. The company should install HEPA air filters and negative air machines to address these issues.
The actual mold removal and cleanup can begin next where besides cleaning up the mold, contaminated materials such as furniture, wallboard and carpets that cannot be cleaned are removed. These materials need to be removed to prevent the problem from returning.
Once the job has been completed, the company should test the air quality, as well as test to verify mold is still not present in the affected areas. In some cases, samples may need to be sent to a laboratory to confirm the type and make sure the correct cleaning methods are used.
If you find your self in a situation where you need a professional mold removal company (anything over 10 square feet of an outbreak), confirm they perform the basic steps, as well as checking the company out with the local better business bureau. Your house’s long- term health requires immediate response.