Mold remediation is both a hands-on skill and a science, standardized by years of research and industry feedback. Most professional mold specialists are certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), which publishes standards for mold detection and treatment methods. The result of this is consistency in both remediation techniques and optimal results, benefiting the homeowner with a healthier indoor environment at lower cost. So what's involved when you contact a mold remediation professional about potential contamination issues in your home?
- First, maybe it's nothing to worry about. Some forms of mold are benign and require no treatment beyond simple cosmetic removal. A professional mold specialist will use techniques like air sampling to identify both the mold type as well as gain an idea of the extent of contamination, if any, inside the house. If the results of testing indicate presence of toxic mold, he'll present a written treatment plan aimed at eliminating both the short-term and long-term consequences of mold contamination.
- Next, the focus changes to locating the area(s) of contamination and removal of the active mold growth, then treating affected surfaces with approved biocides to prevent recurrence. Where extensive mold infection has penetrated beneath the surface of building materials like structural studs or drywall, removal may be recommended.
- After the locations of contamination have been removed and treated, the house will be vacuumed with HEPA-filtered equipment to remove airborne spores that have settled out of the air. HVAC filters will be removed and replaced with new pleated filters to capture residual spores in the air. All dust will be bagged and disposed according to IICRC standards.
- Most mold specialists schedule follow-up inspections and testing at specific time frames following the primary remediation procedure. This will typically include simple air sampling and visual inspection to confirm that the remediation is successful and there is no recurrence.
For more information or to schedule professional mold remediation services, contact the mold specialists at Rytech, Inc.
