Simple Steps to Remove Mold Properly

Mold and Mold Remediation in the home is a very important part of homeownership. There are a couple of things to keep in mind when it comes to mold:

1.) Do things right the first time to prevent mold.

2.) Take care of mold issues immediately.

​The following, are basic adaptable steps that can be used to quickly remove remediate mold properly. 

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The following are basic adaptable steps that can be used to quickly  remediate mold properly.  

Step 1: Educate yourself about moisture
Evaluating moisture www.cdc.gov/mold/faqs.htm and mold growth is more than just what you can see growing on the walls or in the corners. Mold can also be invisible, growing behind what you can see. So you have to think and ask yourself, could there be mold in this area? 
First off, mold grows because of water or moisture.  So the next thing to do is become a master of moisture. Understand where it’s coming from and how it’s getting in the house. Mold can spread and grow anywhere in the home as long as moisture and oxygen are present.  It particularly likes to grow on drywall, tiles, wood, insulation, and fabrics. 

Step 2: Write down your findings of the mold problem and create a plan of remediation
Be sure to document the mold situation with photos and videos and even write down details. This documentation will be used to develop a remediation plan.  This documentation can be of great assistance to whatever company manages the remediation.  
  
Step 3: Figure out how much of a mold problem you have to deal with. 
How much contamination are you really looking at?  Knowing the extent of damage will impact the approach to mold removal and clean up. The goal of mold removal is to remove all the mold growing within the home.  

Step 4: Remediate mold contamination
The cleanup process for mold remediation will look a little like this:

• The water problem will be repaired. This will help prevent new mold spores from growing.
• Isolate The contaminated area will be isolated.
• Suppress dust. Do this by misting the contaminated areas.
• Remove materials. 
• Place materials in plastic bags. 
• Clean. All non-porous materials and wood surfaces that are moldy must be cleaned. Cleaning of the affected area and egress. 
• A Visibility test will be performed. 
• The are will be dried completely. Fans, dehumidifiers, or raising  the indoor air temperature are a normal part of this process 
• Replace. All materials that were moved should be replaced or repaired.

Step 5: Determine if cleanup has been successful. 
There are some final things that need to be done even after the mold is gone. Lastly, determine if your clean-up efforts have been successful. Here are some options and guidelines to follow.

• The moisture problem has been fixed. Verify this by revisiting the home soon after remediation — you shouldn't see any signs of recurring water damage.​
• No sign of visible mold, mold-damaged materials or moldy odors.
• ​Homeowners should be able to occupy or re-occupy the home without physical symptoms or aggravated health complaints.

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When it comes to mold, the key is to implement a comprehensive moisture management strategy. Health issues from mold can be prevented and decreased by doing it right the first time. Following an immediate and thorough remediation plan is essential for getting rid of the mold.
Act Quickly!