The Difference Between Mold Remediation and Mold Mitigation
Have you ever wondered what the difference is between mold mitigation and mold remediation? You may also see these processes referred to as mold removal or abatement.
The terms are often used interchangeably, but you should know the differences between them because they are different approaches to dealing with mold.
This article aims to clarify any confusion between the two mold services, so you know what to expect when searching Google for “mold mitigation services near me.”
Mold Facts
Dampness and insufficient lighting create the perfect environment for mold to take hold and spread. There are different varieties of mold, so be on the lookout for black, white, green, or spotted marks that have a musty smell.
Mold should be dealt with as soon as you see it in your building, regardless of its severity. Even a small mold outbreak will spread to the rest of the property in just a few days where it will damage surfaces and create health issues like asthma and allergies for the residents, employees, and visitors.
The presence of mold can also indicate a moisture problem that could lead to surface degradation and structural issues in the building if left unchecked.
It’s possible to live a relatively mold-free existence, but it’s impossible to eliminate it entirely. Mold occupies an essential place in our ecosystem, and we are constantly surrounded by it. However, it’s only when conditions allow mold to grow beyond tolerable levels that problems occur.
What is Mold Mitigation and How is it Different From Mold Remediation?
Mold is a risk factor for inside and outside a building and results from a constantly damp, poorly lit environment. Mold mitigation focuses primarily on identifying the mold, removing mold spores from the environment, and treating contaminated surfaces.
It's the first step in the fight against mold, stopping or slowing down its spread and reducing the risk of structural deterioration and health issues. While mold mitigation is critical, it won't always provide a permanent solution.
Mold's ability to spread quickly in the right conditions is why mold remediation is one of the most critical processes after flood and fire damage to a property because it ensures the area is dried out as quickly as possible.
Industrial fans and dehumidifiers are essential tools for mold remediation professionals, as is the HVAC, to improve air circulation and prevent mold spores from taking hold. Special vacuum equipment is also employed to filter mold spores out of contaminated air before they can spread to other areas of the property.
What Happens During Mold Remediation?
Removing mold outbreaks and filtering the air stops the existing mold from growing and spreading, but it does not prevent the problem from recurring; that’s where mold remediation steps in.
Mold remediation finds the reason behind the mold and rectifies the conditions to make the environment inhospitable to mold spores. Without remediation, home and business owners may find they constantly need mold mitigation services.
There are strict regulations for mold remediation technicians to follow, including containment of affected areas, maintaining air quality, protecting unaffected property against contamination, and wearing appropriate personal protection gear such as breathing apparatus.
During a mold remediation service, the contractors will perform a series of steps to ensure the removal of mold, the safety of the area, and the conditions that support its growth.
Inspection and assessment: The property is thoroughly evaluated to identify the mold and the source, a critical step that helps the remediation experts decide on the best approach.
Containment: Cleaning a mold outbreak can trigger the release of more spores that will float around in the air until they settle on surfaces. Mold remediation professionals contain the cleanup area to prevent spores from spreading mold to other areas of the property.
Air Filtration and Cleaning Up: Materials and chemicals that are deadly to mold spores but safe for the environment are used to decontaminate an area.
Removal and Disposal: Non-porous and semi-porous materials are more straightforward to clean. Porous materials that have been affected for a long time may need to be disposed of rather than reclaimed.
Sanitization: All affected items and structures are thoroughly cleaned, including furniture, floors, walls, and curtains. Deodorization using fogging equipment ensures that no trace of musty mold odor remains.
When Should You Search for Mold Remediation Near Me?
Just about every property will have small outbreaks from time to time, which are relatively straightforward to deal with using household cleaners. However, should the mold stretch over a significant area of around ten square feet or more, a consultation with a mold mitigation service may be necessary.
If residents of the property are experiencing unexplained respiratory distress or other allergies, note whether they persist while away from the property. If the symptoms subside, it might be a clue that you have a mold problem hidden out of sight. You should always consult your doctor about any health problems, as many conditions can produce similar symptoms to mold sensitivity.
Mold remediation should always be considered after a flood or fire. Floodwaters, fire services, and sprinklers will flood every nook and cranny of a building. It will be all but impossible to completely dry out the area to prevent a mold outbreak without some help from a professional mold remediation service.
How Likely is it That Mold Will Return?
If mold is removed but no examination is done to find its source, you will likely experience repeated incursions.
However, if a mold mitigation service is followed up with thorough remediation, the conditions that allowed mold to flourish will be located, removed, and repaired. In these circumstances, it’s unlikely that mold will return.
The fight against mold is an ongoing battle for coastal areas. However, home and business owners should keep a vigilant eye out for mold growth, even in dry climates.
Signs of mold are often an indication of an underlying structural issue such as poor air circulation, a cracked water pipe, or a leaky roof. Mold mitigation, or removal, is only part of the solution to ensure your mold problem does not return.
Mold remediation professionals repair the problem areas or provide the property owners with a recommended set of actions for preventing additional damage.
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