Frequently Asked Questions About Mold Removal

What exactly is mold?

You can find mold as a form of fungus that can be both indoors and out. The mold’s principal purpose is to decompose dead materials. Mold can be found on soil, food, and plants in nature.

What causes mold to form?

With the following limited resources, mold can grow quickly.

• Vitamins and minerals (organic materials like paper, wood, drywall)
• A suitable environment for growth (basement, bathroom & crawl spaces)
• In good working order (Moisture & Humidity)

What causes mold to spread?

Molds create “spores,” which are minute cells that can be transported by air, water, or insects. Mold colonies emerge when live spores are moved to new regions under the correct conditions.

Is it hazardous to inhale mold spores?

Touching or breathing mold spores can cause sneezing, itching, sore throat, runny nose, and skin rashes in persons who are allergic to mold. These problems can become chronic for persons who already have health problems, such as:

• Diseases of the liver
• Immunity has been compromised.
• Allergies and asthma

Mold spore interaction poses a particular health risk to infants, children, and the elderly.

What is the Procedure for Mold Removal?

Mold removal, also known as mold remediation, is the process of removing mold and its spores from a home or business. It does not eliminate the mold, as dead mold spores might still irritate. Mold removal procedures vary depending on the situation, however, they are always founded on the same principles:

• Isolation of the working environment (mold containment).
• Control spores in the air that will be disturbed throughout the remediation process.
• A HEPA vacuum is used to clean mold-affected surfaces.
• Contents cleaning and transportation (removal of mold-contaminated media).
• Unmovable building elements are sprayed and scrubbed.
• Rebuilding, disinfecting, deodorizing, and encapsulating surfaces
• Air scrubbing after remediation (cleaning the space after remediation to eliminate remaining spores).

Can I Clear the Mold with Bleach?

The EPA advises against using bleach to destroy mold. Bleach is mainly water, therefore it ceased functioning soon after you stopped smelling it. When bleach is used to destroy mold, it leaves behind dead spores that might irritate individuals. Bleach does not kill spores in the air (mold in the air is the likely source of how mold started in the first place). These spores finally settle on organic matter and grow.

Is it Important to Have the Mold Tested to See What Type it is?

Mold can be tested and sampled, but it isn’t required. There are no federal rules for mold in a domestic setting, thus the EPA advises against testing. The main focus is on removing the mold and resolving the moisture issue.

What is a HEPA filter?

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) is an acronym for high-efficiency particulate air. When eliminating mold, use a HEPA vacuum to remove any spores that may be present.

Will Mold Reappear After Mold Removal?

Follow these suggestions to avoid mold recurrence: 

• Prevent water intrusion into the structure 
• Use a dehumidifier in wet locations such as basements and crawl spaces
• Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens.
• Any water damage should be repaired as soon as possible.

How Long Does it Take to Do a Mold Removal?

It varies on your specific circumstance; however, based on IICRC best practices for mold remediation, it usually takes 3 to 6 days to restore the conditions.

Can I Eliminate Mold on my Own?

It all depends on the type of mold and the situation you’re in. For ordinary molds, such as that found in bathroom corners and kitchen cabinets, you can employ DIY tips.

However, if you see other indicators of mold, such as a musty odor or a sensation of unease, or if you notice a concealed mold colony larger than 10 sq. ft., you should seek the advice of a mold expert.

Mold recurrence after employing DIY solutions is another clue that you’re dealing with a serious mold problem that requires professional treatment.

Is It Possible To Paint Over Mold?

After a few months, have you noticed bubbling on freshly painted walls? This can happen if you paint on molded walls without adequately addressing the issues.

You can put off the inevitable by painting over the mold, but you’ll still have to deal with the following:

• Concerns about one’s health and those of one’s family.
• Property damage.
• Mold cleanup costs are high.