How Many Levels Of Mold Remediation Are There?

Microorganisms like mold can be hard to remove once they've contaminated your home. If left untreated, mold spores can pass through the air, come in contact with moisture, and cause your mold problem to spread.

Understanding the level of your mold contamination can help you determine the best course to remediate your mold problem successfully and when it's time to call in professional mold remediation specialists.

When it comes to mold remediation, there are five distinct levels to consider. Each level is based on the square footage of the mold contaminated area. 

The five levels of mold remediation 

• Level 1 Mold Remediation: Mold Spread 10 square feet or less
• Level 2 Mold Remediation: Mold Spread 10 to 30 square feet
• Level 3 Mold Remediation: Mold Spread 30 to 100 square feet
• Level 4 Mold Remediation: Mold Spread over 100 square feet
• Level 5 Mold Remediation: Mold Contamination in AC units and HVAC systems

Level One Mold Remediation

Level 1 requires the least amount of effort and is usually used for minor spots or mold stains where the contamination is within a ten-square-foot area. At Rytech Restoration, our mold specialists see level one mold contaminations the most often at the bottom of based boards and in the corners of ceilings and walls. The area should get cleaned with detergent and water, and then a fungicide is applied to kill any remaining mold. If you're considering taking on a level one contamination as a DIY mold remediation project, make sure to wear EPA-approved protective masks and gloves.

Level Two Mold Remediation

When the mold spread is between 10 to 30 square feet in proximity, it's classified as a level 2 mold remediation. A common situation that Rytech's mold experts find level two contaminations is where an under-the-sink water leak has gone unnoticed, creating the perfect environment for mold to form and spread across the wall behind and around the sink. This level requires more effort, as it involves mold containments to prevent cross-contamination. During Rytech's level two mold remediation services, certified technicians contain the affected area using EPA-approved plastic sheeting and tape to seal the area. Once the area is sealed, it will get treated with an antimicrobial spray.

Level Three Mold Remediation

A level 3 mold remediation is when mold has spread between 30-100 square feet. When your mold contamination has spread to the size of an entire utility room, it's time to call a local mold remediation company with a good reputation in your area. Level three contaminations should get handled with the same precautions and guidelines as levels one and two. If your mold growth has spread thirty feet or more, there is a greater chance of damage to organic porous materials. Schedule a mold inspection with a licensed state mold inspector who can help you identify the type of mold you're dealing with and provide a remediation plan to remove it.

Level Four Mold Remediation

If the mold spread reaches 100 square feet or more, it is considered a level 4 mold remediation project, best resolved through professional mold removal services. Due to the poor air quality during a level four mold contamination, certified technicians wear protective face respirators equipped with HEPA cartridges and EPA-approved protective gear during service. Mold containment must be expanded to cover all ventilation and ductwork connected to the contaminated space. As a leading mold removal company, Rytech Restoration's mold pros use industrial air filtration machines with HEPA filters to purify the air. This removes mold spores from the air to bring your indoor air quality back to healthy and safe levels. In addition, we highly recommend all AC units and HVAC systems must be inspected and cleaned.

Level Five Mold Remediation

Level 5 is the most extensive remediation and involves a professional mold inspection and cleaning of all AC units and HVAC system components, such as coils and interior ductwork. The remediation of HVAC systems and air conditioning units should always be handled by experienced licensed mold remediation companies like Rytech Restoration. In addition to following the recommended safety measures, Rytech's certified technicians recommend the steps below get taken during the mold remediation process recommended for a level five mold contamination: 

• Your HVAC System should first be deactivated,
• Any moldy insulation should be carefully sealed in plastic bags and disposed of safely, 
• Antimicrobial products and spray should be used to eliminate mold spores in the ductwork. 

How To Determine The Level Of Mold Remediation Required

In order to determine which level of remediation is needed, it is important to check for signs of mold growth in the affected area. If no visible mold is present, but invisible signs of mold exist, such as occupants suffering from recurring health issues, it's recommended to collect mold samples and have them inspected by an industrial hygienist. If the mold levels exceed what is acceptable, it is important to call a professional mold mitigation company to determine the best course of action.