Mold remediation is a process of removing mold from an indoor environment. Traditional mold remediation methods typically take 1 to 7 days, depending on the scope and severity of the problem. However, more advanced mold remediation methods, such as those that use negative pressure and HEPA filtration, can shorten the duration of most mold removal. In this blog post, we will talk about just how long does mold remediation take and the process behind it.
Mold Remediation Process
The mold remediation process typically takes around seven days, but can ultimately vary based on many factors such as mold species and the overall mold levels. This includes the time it takes to assess the problem, containing the mold growth, removing the mold, and cleaning the mold contaminated surfaces. Although, depending on the severity of the issue, some homes may require a more extensive remediation process that can take up to two weeks to remove mold and kill mold completely.
How do you get mold spores in your house?
Before we touch on the subject of remediation, it can be a good idea to circle back and figure out how did you get mold in your house in the first place. There are many ways mold can enter your home. Mold spores are found in both indoor and outdoor air and can enter your home through open doors, windows, vents, or AC units.
Once mold spores are in your home, they need three things to grow: moisture, a food source, and a suitable temperature.
Moisture
Moisture can come from many sources including leaks in your roof or plumbing, flooding, condensation from high humidity, or even something as simple as not running the bathroom fan while showering.
Food Source
A food source for mold can be anything that is organic like wood, paper products, drywall, or insulation—basically anything that contains cellulose or plant matter.
Temperature
Finally, most molds need a temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit or higher to grow. So, if your home is usually kept cooler than this, you may be less likely to have a mold problem.
Now that we've established how mold enters your home, let's move on to the mold removal process.
Containing the Mold
The first step in mold remediation is containment. This is important because it prevents the spread of mold spores to other areas of your home. The area affected by mold will need to be sealed off using negative air pressure and physical barriers like plastic sheeting.
Once the area is contained, any excess water will have to be removed and drying equipment will be brought in to lower the humidity levels. For professional help, request a free quote from a professional water damage restoration company. It is crucial to dry the affected area as quickly as possible to prevent further growth. This is also when you'd want to remove any damaged materials that have reached an overly high level of mold contamination.
Mold Removal
Now the second step in mold remediation is removing the mold. This can be done through a variety of methods, such as:
- Scraping
- Sanding
- Chemical cleaning
- High pressure washing
The type of mold removal method used will depend on the type and severity of mold. Once you have successfully accomplished a complete removal, the area will need to be cleaned from any remaining mold spores and disinfected.
Cleaning and Disinfecting
After the mold has been removed, the last step is to clean and disinfect the affected area. This is important to prevent the mold from coming back. The cleaning and disinfecting process can include:
- Wiping down surfaces with a damp cloth
- Vacuuming with a HEPA filter
- Cleaning with soap and water
- Using a natural mold cleaner
Once the area has been cleaned and disinfected, it’s important to dry it completely. Mold thrives in damp environments, so it’s important to make sure the area is completely dry before moving on to the next step.
Repairing the Damaged Area
The final step in mold remediation is repairing the damaged area. This may include replacing wooden studs, ceiling tiles, drywall, insulation, or carpeting. Depending on the extent of the damage, this step can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days.
What comes after mold remediation?
After the mold has been remediated, it’s important to take steps to prevent mold from coming back. This can be done by:
- Fixing leaks
- Improving drainage
- Installing a dehumidifier
- Ventilating damp areas
Mold needs moisture to grow, so finding and fixing the source of the moisture is key. Once the problem has been fixed, you can prevent mold growth from coming back by monitoring the area and addressing any moisture problems immediately.
If you take these steps, you can prevent mold growth from coming back and causing further damage to your home. Mold remediation is a process, but it’s one that is worth it to protect your home and your family from the potential health risks of mold presence.
When is it time to call a specialist?
If the mold problem is more than ten square feet, if you have health issues or concerns, or if you’re unsure of how to fix the moisture problem, it’s time to call for a professional mold remediation. A mold specialist will be able to help you contain the mold damage using specialized equipment, thus removing it safely, and fixing the moisture problem so that mold doesn’t come back.
The mold remediation process is a task that takes time and effort. But if you have a mold contamination in your home, it’s important to address it as soon as possible to prevent further damage and health problems. In this case, calling for a professional mold removal could be a wise and safe choice for you and your family. They will be able to pinpoint the contaminated area with a visual inspection, as well as, establish just how severe your mold issues are. From there, they can recommend a plan of action to get rid of the mold and prevent it from coming back.
Ultimately, the mold removal process depends on the type of mold, how severe the problem is, and what materials are affected. While it may seem like a daunting task, with the help of a professional mold remediation company, you can get rid of mold in your home and prevent it from coming back.
Take action now if you think you have a mold issue in your home, call 509-272-9030 or visit our website for a free quote today.
