Steps in Professional Mold Remediation

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

Steps in Professional Mold Remediation

Mold are fungi which grow in the form of multicellular thread-like structures called hyphae. Mold in homes favor warm, damp and humid conditions for growth and reproduce my making spores. Disturbing mold is disastrous as it leads to spreading of the spores which can survive even in extreme environmental conditions, such as dry conditions.Disturbing spores can distribute them and enhance mold growth. In squeezed corners due to the favorable conditions, mold growth behind walls is rampant.

Black mold is a type of mold that which releases spores when it feeds on organic materials in the households such as drywall, carpet, insulation or sub-flooring that have been exposed to moisture. One can tell the presence of black mold by the presence of a musty, smelly odor, like dirt and rotten leaves. Black mold is usually greenish-black but may also appear grayish with a sooty, powdery texture. The only way to distinguish black mold from other mold/fungus species is by examination under a microscope.

Dry rot is a type of fungi that cause damage to timber and is considered one of the most mold damaging destroyers of wood construction materials. For growth of the dry rot, it needs a suitable food base, in this case, timber. Extensive growth of the fungus produces fruiting bodies that release spores that spread and proliferate. Dry rot often grows near ventilation shafts which show a preference for concentrated oxygen. Water is the major condition for the dry rot to thrive hence that is taken as its vulnerability. The primary measures for the fungi mitigation is;
• Locating and repairing the source of water causing the dry rot.
• Promoting rapid drying conditions in the affected buildings.
The effects of dry rot can be remedied by;
• Removing all or portions of the infested wood.
• Replacing the removed wood with pre-treated wood
Mildew is a thin dusting of black or gray growth produced by mold appearing on natural fabrics such as linen, silk and cotton, and occasionally walls. It also decolorizes paper and leather. Mildew presence is prevented by having a dehumidifier in the room to remove moisture and thereby preventing mildew spores from growing.

Mold damage

Molds produce irritating substances which act as allergens for sensitive individuals. Signs of molds in a home include allergic symptoms, mold growth also produces smelly odor, seeing signs of mold growth behind walls and in other hidden places.

Mold remediation and mitigation

The mold in homes and commercial mold damage remediation depends on the intensity of mold spores; they include several steps:
i. The first step for mold remediation and mitigation involves contacting restoration company representatives who determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel required for deodorization (where needed), mold removal and control. This is particularly helpful when dealing with commercial mold damage.
ii. Inspection and mold damage assessment.
iii. Mold damage containment and mitigation procedures and remediation to prevent the spread of mold in homes. Containment procedures can also be applied effectively in the case of commercial mold damage. Guidance by qualified restoration company representatives is critical.
iv. Dust suppression and deodorization, done by misting the contaminated areas.
v. Air is the filtered to capture mold spores in the air.
vi. The mold and mold infested materials are then removed and kept away from walls to avert further mold growth behind walls.
vii. Cleaning contents and belongings such as clothing, curtains, and furniture are done. A HEPA vacuum is used to clean all surfaces. Deodorization is also important as it reduces the smelly odors and makes the environment habitable.
viii. Drying the cleaned and repaired items thoroughly.
ix. Repair and replacement of the removed materials with clean materials free from mold damage.
x. A visibility test is done. All areas should be visibly free from contamination, that is, the absence of dirt and dust means no fungus.
xi. Searching is done to check any recurrent water damage, mildew and mold damage. It is best done by a skilled restoration company representative.
Mold removal.
i. Sanding moldy wood; since it is sometimes difficult to completely remove mold from wood as it is somewhat porous. Experts sometimes sand the wood to fasten mold removal.
ii. Non-porous surfaces such as sinks and tubs can be scrubbed using an antimicrobial cleaner to aid in mold removal.
iii. Building materials and furniture that has been infested and cannot be salvaged should be discarded as ordinary construction waste.
iv. Wet vacuums can be used to dry water from floors, carpets, and hard surfaces. Corners and leaking sewer piping should be given particular attention thus preventing mold growth behind walls.
v. Restoration using techniques to capture microscopic mold spores and the smelly odor and other building materials, several deodorization restoration company staff may apply deodorization to eliminate offensive odors and prevent further commercial mold damage and mold growth.
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