Rehabilitation Of Your Home After Mold

Molds may play an important ecological role in nature, but nobody wants it in their Los Angeles area home. Moisture is the key factor in mold growth, influencing the types of mold present and the extent of its growth. A variety of materials in the home, including insulation, wallpaper, drywall backing paper, carpeting glues, dirt and dust can all serve as food sources for mold. If you’re concerned about possible mold contamination, it’s important to contact a certified test-only mold inspection company.

Mold Inspection

In addition to an in-depth visual inspection, the process typically includes taking test samples and moisture readings of building materials and interior temperature & humidity readings. A same-day inspection report should provide clearly understood results of all aspects of the inspection and tests, final conclusions and mold remediation recommendations.

Mold Remediation

If the mold inspector identifies a problem, a remediation company should be contacted separately from the mold inspection company. The process can be messy and invasive, as the original source of the moisture problem must be located and repaired.

Once the problem is fixed, the remediation team will remove all moldy materials and clean the air and remaining surfaces of the affected areas. It’s vital that a remediation company is fully licensed and insured because the process may involve dismantling portions of the structure. All repair/construction work estimated to cost more than $500 should be performed by a fully licensed/insured construction contractor.

Note: Many remediation/restoration businesses promise mold “removal” as part of their services, some going as far as guaranteeing to remove all mold in the residence. Because mold spores exist nearly everywhere, it’s impossible to fully eradicate it. An experienced, qualified remediation company focuses on getting mold levels back to normal levels – not making empty promises.

Home Rehabilitation

Removing and disposing of mold-infested materials, including drywall, insulation and carpeting, may be necessary to alleviate heavy mold growth. The process also involves thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing your furniture, curtains, clothing, home décor items and other salvageable items that may have been affected by mold.

Depending on the damage, it may also be necessary to remove sub-floors and other structurally significant materials. Rehabilitation may involve minor repairs, such as painting and replacing carpeting and drywall – or new construction in large areas or entire rooms.

Levels of mold damage differ, so each requires a unique solution – and it all starts with choosing the right mold inspector.