MOLD REMOVAL VS. MOLD REMEDIATION: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?

Do you have a mold problem? If so, then you have likely already come across the terms mold removal and mold remediation. While these terms are often used interchangeably, the truth is that they are different.

Many people often assume they mean the same thing because most mold restoration companies use them interchangeably. However, if you want to get the best mold treatment or service, you need to understand the difference to demand the appropriate service from professionals.

So, what is the difference between mold removal and mold remediation? Spoiler Alert, the difference is in the processes involved in the two. Let us take an in-depth look into the differences between mold removal and remediation and how you can recognize which one of the services you need.

WHAT CAUSES MOLD? SIGNS TO WATCH OUT FOR

Before we go into the difference between removal and remediation, you must know what causes mold and the signs of a mold problem. After all, the best way to get rid of a problem is to cure its cause, not the symptoms. Mold spores can be anywhere, inside and outside your house. However, they do not pose a problem unless they settle and spread.

These spores thrive in moist areas and become colonies. Areas with moisture or even high humidity can promote mold growth. It is why mold often grows in bathrooms, windows, and buildings that have experienced a flood. Mold also grows in hidden places like behind drywall with an unknown leak.

How do you know you have a mold problem, though? While black mold stain is common and easy to spot, mold can be any color from white to green. Other than the stain, you may notice a musty odor. This smell is also an indicator of hidden mold, especially when you have had a recent flood or water leakage.

DANGERS OF HIDDEN MOLD

It might seem easy to ignore a little stain or mask mold odor with air freshener. However, allowing mold growth holds grave danger. How can mold growth affect you and your building?

Mold can lead to health complications like respiratory problems and allergic reactions. Specific types of mold are highly toxic and can result in illness.

Mold can also cause structural damage to your building. When you do not handle mold growth quickly, your walls can become permanently stained and weakened.

Mold can reduce the value of your property on the market.

Mold worsens the health of people with lung problems.

So, you see that you need to deal with that mold problem as soon as possible. But what do you need - a mold removal or mold remediation? Let us look at these two processes, to give you an idea of what you need. Note that each mold situation is unique, and a professional mold inspection is the best way to determine the next step.

WHAT IS MOLD REMOVAL? WHEN SHOULD I DO IT?

Mold Removal involves getting rid of mold spores, basically cleaning up the mold-infected area. You can carry out mold removal all by yourself. All you must do is get vinegar or a strong bleach and clean off the visible mold spores. There are also professional restoration companies that carry out mold removal.

However, you need to use the right technique if you do it yourself. You should note that it is not in every case that casual mold removal can solve your mold problem. Cases where mold removal is appropriate include:

• When you have tested to know that the mold is not toxic

• When the underlying cause of the mold growth is known and fixed

• When the mold growth is small (covering less than 10 square feet)

• When the mold growth is not hidden

• When you are sure the mold has not spread to other areas.

If your mold problem does not meet all these conditions, it is best to carry out professional mold remediation.

Advantages and Disadvantages

One advantage of mold removal is that it is cheaper. You can do it yourself at your convenience. However, the disadvantages of doing a mold removal are numerous. There is a strong possibility of the mold growing back, especially if the cause is not isolated and fixed.

There might be other hidden mold sources that you never found. You could also make the situation worse or affect your health when you DIY. The truth is a mold removal is never enough on its own.

WHAT IS MOLD REMEDIATION? WHEN SHOULD I DO IT?

Mold Remediation is the process of restoring the mold spores' levels to normal. The process involves more than just cleaning the mold. It requires taking active steps to ensure that the mold does not grow again. Mold remediation requires the expertise and equipment of a professional.

While proper mold remediation can cost more than mold removal, in most instances, you are better off doing one. Some of such cases are:

• When you need to find the cause of the mold

• When you need to prevent the re-growth of the mold

• When you want to ensure that mold spore levels are low

• When you want to get to all clusters of molds.

• Mold remediation by a professional restoration company would make your house smell good and look good again.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Mold remediation gets rid of most of the mold, and reduces the possibility of future mold growth. However, it is a multi-step process that requires the aid of professionals.

THE MOLD REMEDIATION PROCESS

The proper mold remediation process differs from one company to another. The type of mold also affects the process. However, there are some general steps taken at every mold remediation.

Step 1: Mold Identification and Assessment

Step 2: Mold Containment

Step 3: Air Filtration

Step 4: Mold Removal and Cleaning

Step 5: Restoration and Prevention

While this process might not be followed precisely in solving your mold problem, mold experts know what to do to eliminate all kinds of mold. You do not want to wait until mold starts affecting your health. Talking to a professional mold expert is the right way to get the process started.

Make A Valuable Connection

Now it is time for some huge shout for our partner companies. Here are some highly trusted companies who are very popular for their mold & radon solutions service in their local area. So if you are in their service area then you can get their services.

• KD Environmental Consulting Services - Mold Assessment & Testing in Poughkeepsie, Kingston, Woodstock, Brewster & Nearby

• Midwest Healthy Home Solutions - Mold Assessment & Testing in Greater St. Louis & Metro East