PuroClean of Plymouth Meeting 
Mold remediation and Removal helps people stay safe by identifying large-scale mold within the home and removing it. When hiring a professional to remediate mold, you’ll have to consider the cost, areas in the house which are likely to develop mold (bathrooms, basements, and kitchens), and the different types of molds you could be dealing with. Keep reading to learn more about how to get rid of mold with mold remediation
What Is Mold Remediation?
Mold remediation process of getting mold levels back to its normal and natural state. Some molds produce health-threatening mycotoxins.1 While it is impossible to remove all mold in a house, certain levels are acceptable to live with. Every mold damage scenario differs and requires a different solution.
General Steps for Mold Remediation
- Emergency Contact
- Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
- Mold Containment
- Air Filtration
- Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
- Cleaning Contents and Belongings
- Restoration
Why is Mold Remediation & Removal Important?
Mold remediation is important because mold often has detrimental effects on both the structural integrity of a building and the health of its occupants. Exposure to mold can cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and other health issues. If left untreated, mold can spread rapidly, causing significant damage to building materials, furniture, and personal belongings.
What is Mold Removal?
Apparently, mold is a part of life, and just about everywhere you look. Keep in mind, mold cannot be completely remediated or removed. As we know mold can enter your home or business through clothing, open doors, and windows, and even by hitching a ride on pets.
Understanding Mold
When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:
Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
Mold spores are microscopic, float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water and it may cause irritation or other health effects.
Before mold remediation can start, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
Mold usually produces a strong, musty odor, and can lead\ to possible mold problem areas.
Mold Remediation Cost
Mold remediation costs an average of $2,300, ranging from $1,225 on the low end to $3,700 on the high end. Mold remediation costs $10 and $25 per square foot.
Other costs may include:
Replace flooring: Severely damaged flooring may need to be replaced. For vinyl plank flooring, this may cost from $335 for a small bathroom to over $5,000 for a basement.
Replace drywall: Mold-damaged drywall may need to be removed and replaced. Mold-resistant drywall costs about $25 per 4-foot by 8-foot sheet.
Improve drainage: Poorly draining yards can cause water to build up, creating mold. Installing an exterior French drain costs $15 to $50 per linear foot.
The cost of mold remediation depends on many factors such as your location, the type of mold, the extent of the damage, and whether or not you temporarily relocate during the process.
Save Money on Mold Remediation
Act immediately since mold spreads rapidly.
Call your home insurer to see if your homeowner’s insurance will cover the costs.
Do cosmetic fixes by yourself.
Types of Indoor Mold
Certain molds can produce toxins (specifically mycotoxins) but mold themselves is not toxic or poisonous.4 There are three classifications of mold: allergenic (low to moderate); pathogenic (moderate to high); and toxigenic (high to extreme). Below are the most common types of molds found indoors:
Aspergillus: It is a common indoor mold that grows at a very fast rate. It appears as green to black flecks or dots and is found in-home air-conditioning systems, as well as on exposed fruits, vegetables, and grains.
Alternaria: It is another common indoor mold, Alternaria is found in soil, and on plants, fruits, vegetables, wallpaper, ceiling tiles, window frames, and textiles. If exposed, it could trigger asthma or hay fever.
Cladosporium: It is commonly found on cooling units, damp building materials, insulation, and decaying plants. While most species are not harmful, some cause an allergic reaction.
Chaetomium: It has a musty smell. Chaetomium is typically found in water-damaged areas, such as basements, under the carpet, water-logged drywall, or under the roof. It is white gray to brown in texture and has a cotton-like appearance.
Penicillium: It is used in bleu cheese but when it is found in the home in an allergen state, it’s not healthy. Penicillium appears as a velvety blue-green mold near water-damaged areas.
Stachybotrys: Also known as black mold, Stachybotrys is known for its dark green to black coloring. It lurks under tiles, behind walls, and in the ceiling. A professional should remove black mold, as it is highly toxic.
How to Test for Mold
If the mold is visible, there is no need to test it, as the mold is considered to be present
Mold Remediation Process
There are several ways to remediate mold in the home and ensure it does not spread to other areas.
Containment and Ventilation
Firstly, the most important thing is setting up containment and ventilation. The use of proper ventilation and air filtration devices (AFDs) such as air scrubbers is required to ensure that mold spores that are disturbed and become airborne do not spread to an uninfected area.
Cleaning and Disinfection
Cleaning and disinfecting is the next step, and this is the stage that includes the real remediation and disposal of infected materials. After the cleaning and disinfecting, the technicians apply biocide/fungicide/multicide solutions.
Even though chlorine bleach is often used to kill mold, bleach is not an EPA-approved biocide.6 For that, you will need to use a product such as Mold stat, an EPA-registered fungicide. If a space with 3 feet by 3 feet of mold growth is heavily concentrated or near the HVAC system, it should be contained to prevent dispersal.
Fix the Mold Source
The next step is where the technicians address any moisture or humidity concerns.
Encapsulate the Mold
Mold that has not been removed can be covered by paint or a similar material. Encapsulation is an approved method of dealing with mold in a home, though it is only an approved method when most of the mold is removed and the affected area is totally dry. The source or cause of the mold should be fixed before painting.
When to Call a Professional
Moldy areas less than 10 square feet can be remediated by the homeowner. For larger areas, it’s best to talk to a mold remediation contractor.
When selling a home with mold, buyers may prefer to have the mold abated by professionals rather than using DIY methods.
A certified mold remediation contractor should do the work rather than a general contractor. Mold remediation companies are trained to handle widespread and hazardous mold.
While minor mold issues can sometimes be addressed by homeowners using DIY methods, some situations will require the involvement of professional mold remediation services. Here are some instances when it’s best to seek professional help:
Extensive Mold Growth: If the mold growth covers a large area (typically more than 10 square feet), it’s advisable to contact professionals. Extensive mold growth may indicate underlying moisture issues or hidden mold that needs thorough inspection and remediation.
Hidden Mold: Mold can often hide behind walls, in crawl spaces, or other hard-to-reach areas. If you suspect hidden mold or have a musty odor but can’t locate the source, professionals can conduct mold testing and use specialized equipment to detect and remediate hidden mold.
Health Concerns: If you or anyone in your household experiences persistent allergic reactions, respiratory issues, or other health problems that could be linked to mold exposure, it’s crucial to consult professionals. They can assess the situation, identify the mold species, and take appropriate measures to eliminate the mold and minimize health risks.
Water Damage: If the mold growth is a result of water damage, such as a flood, plumbing leak, or roof leak, professional mold remediation services can address both the water damage and mold contamination. They have the knowledge to thoroughly dry and restore the affected areas while effectively removing the mold.
Remember, mold remediation is not just about removing visible mold; it’s also about addressing the underlying causes to prevent future mold growth. Professional mold remediation services can provide comprehensive solutions to ensure long-term mold prevention and a healthier living environment.
Tips for Mold Remediation and Prevention
Given the cost and difficulty of mold remediation, it’s usually best to prevent mold in the first place:
Ventilate rooms: Naturally ventilate rooms whenever it’s reasonable by opening windows.
Use dehumidifiers: Run a dehumidifier in rooms with persistent moisture.
Run exhaust fans: Install a high-capacity exhaust fan in the bathroom.
Remove wet items: Avoid piling wet towels and clothing, such as swimsuits, in the bathroom. Instead, hang towels and clothing up to dry.
Squeegee the shower door: After a shower.
Why Choose PuroClean of Plymouth Meeting for Your Water Damage and Mold Remediation and Removal Needs?
When faced with water damage and potential mold growth, choosing the right restoration company is crucial. Here’s why Puroclean of Plymouth Meeting stands out as your trusted partner in the Plymouth Meeting PA, including Lansdale, Skippack, Norristown, and Ardmore:
- Local Expertise: We are a locally owned and operated company with extensive experience serving Plymouth Meeting and surrounding areas. We understand the unique challenges associated with water damage in our region, from seasonal weather patterns to specific building materials commonly used in our communities.
- Fast Response & 24/7 Availability: Water damage emergencies don’t wait
- for convenient hours. We offer 24/7 emergency response to minimize further damage and get the restoration process started swiftly. Our prompt response time ensures your property suffers less and recovers faster.
- Highly Trained & Certified Technicians: Our team comprises certified and highly trained water damage restoration technicians. They possess the necessary skills and knowledge to assess the situation effectively, develop a customized remediation plan, and execute the job efficiently and safely.
- Advanced Equipment & Technology: We invest in cutting-edge technology and equipment to ensure a thorough and efficient remediation process. This includes advanced drying equipment, industrial-grade dehumidifiers, and state-of-the-art mold detection tools.
- Insurance Navigation & Hassle-Free Claims: We understand the complexities of insurance claims. Our team will work directly with your insurance company to streamline the claims process and ensure you receive the maximum coverage for your restoration needs.
- Open Communication & Transparency: We believe in clear communication throughout the remediation process. Our team will keep you informed of every step, answer your questions promptly, and address any concerns you may have.
- Commitment to Customer Satisfaction: Your satisfaction is our top priority. We are dedicated to exceeding your expectations by providing exceptional service, high-quality workmanship, and a commitment to restoring your property to its pre-damage condition.
Protect Your Investment & Restore Your Peace of Mind
Don’t let water damage and potential mold growth overwhelm you. Contact PuroClean of Plymouth Meeting today at (484) 412-4422 for a free consultation. We’ll be there to guide you through the restoration process and ensure your property is restored quickly, safely, and efficiently.
PuroClean of Plymouth Meeting 