SERVPRO shares facts about mold and how the mold remediation process works

5/17/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: SERVPRO discusses the nature and causes of mold spores and how the technicians take care of mold growth that has gone out of hand.

What is mold? 

Mold spores grow and spread in the presence of moisture and heat. They produce allergens and irritants that can potentially cause other health effects.

Facts about mold:

• Omnipresent: It is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors. 
• 100,000 different types: Mold comes in a diverse variety although not all types are harmful. Five kinds of mold, including black mold, usually grow indoors and are harmful.
• Swift multiplier: Mold thrives on moisture and can grow exponentially within 24 to 48 hours after a water damage event. In fact, higher than 45 percent indoor humidity can support mold growth. Unfortunately, it also remains hidden for long if left unnoticed.
• Sneaks in: Mold spores are microscopic and can enter homes through open doors, windows, and heating & air conditioning systems. Clothing, shoes, and pets can also become carriers of mold.
• Strong odor: Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead to the source of the problem.
• Bleach is useless: Bleach may kill the mold but the spores survive, ready to multiply again.

Texas Mold Assessment and Remediation Rules (TMARR) states that if five square feet of visible mold is detected, a Texas-licensed Mold Remediation Contractor must be consulted.

Mold remediation process

Every mold damage scenario requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same:

Step 1 Emergency contact 

A mold-cleanup-and-remediation process begins when you call a mold remediation company. SERVPRO’s representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the requisite equipment, resources, and personnel.

Step 2 Inspection and mold damage assessment

Local and state laws may require a specific inspection and documentation protocol based on the size of the affected area. SERVPRO can advise on this process, providing guidance based on the unique situation.

The representatives at SERVPRO carefully inspect the property for visible signs of mold using various technologies to detect even the mold hidden from view. Thereafter, they create a mold remediation plan or protocol and will collect a mold sample for analysis. 

Step 3 Mold containment

When the mold contamination affects a total surface area of 25 contiguous square feet or more, various containment procedures must be implemented to prevent the spread of mold. 

SERVPRO may use advanced containment procedures like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the remediation process. All fans and heating and cooling systems will be switched off to prevent the growth of mold.

Step 4 Air filtration

The technicians use specialized filtration equipment to capture microscopic mold spores in the air. “Air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums halt the spread of these mold spores during the mold remediation process.

Step 5 Removing mold and mold-infested materials

Disinfectants, biocides and antimicrobial coatings registered by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) can be used to eliminate mold colonies and to check the formation of new colonies. Removal and disposal of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and carpeting, may be needed to remediate heavy mold growth.

Step 6 Cleaning contents and belongings

Restorable items such as furniture, decorative items, curtains, and clothing affected by mold can be restored using an array of cleaning techniques. Odor removal and deodorization can also be executed using fogging equipment.

Step 7 Restoration

This final step brings the property back to its original glory. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet. It could also entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. 

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Hurst-Euless-Bedford is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Hurst, Euless, Bedford, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill-upgradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For mold remediation services, call SERVPRO® of Hurst-Euless-Bedford today at (817) 595-0004 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com