Mold Remediation – What is Used for Mold Remediation?
What is Used for Mold Remediation
A mold remediation involves removing existing spores and preventing new ones from growing by addressing the original source. The process can include removing porous items, like carpeting, wood trim and drywall. It also includes cleaning up dust particles and disinfecting the area. In some cases, it may require rebuilding the affected areas with new materials and reinstalling plumbing, electrical wiring, finish materials and insulation.
Restoration professionals have a variety of methods for removing mold from non-porous surfaces, such as scrubbing, sanding or wire brushing. However, these methods are time consuming and can be difficult in tight areas. A more efficient method is to use soda blasting or dry ice blasting, which removes the moldy surface without causing damage. This technique also produces less waste and is much faster than traditional methods.
To minimize the impact on occupants, professional cleaners seal off the contaminated area to protect them from airborne particles. Then they can clean and disinfect the affected surfaces using a variety of solutions. Cleaning and disinfection chemicals are available at most hardware and paint stores. Some contain quaternary ammonium compounds, or “quats”, which are widely used in the restoration industry because they are effective at killing mold and other microorganisms. Others are derived from natural sources, such as essential oils, and may serve several functions, including cleaning, disinfecting and deodorizing.
Mold Remediation – What is Used for Mold Remediation?
Regardless of the chemicals chosen, restoration professionals must follow manufacturers’ directions to avoid exposure and ensure that they are effectively eliminating the mold. In addition, they must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) during the entire project. This includes a face mask with an N95 filter, eye protection with no vents and rubber gloves that extend to the mid-forearm. If the contamination is severe, they will also need to wear a respirator with an N100 filter.
In addition to scrubbing or spraying the moldy surface, professional cleaners often scrub or sand the affected areas to remove any remaining spores and fragments. Depending on the amount of moisture involved, they might then damp-wipe and dry the affected surface to prevent future growth.
If the contamination is severe, the professionals may need to remove porous materials, such as drywall and insulation, which are infested with mold. However, this is not always necessary if the items are intact and have not been compromised by water damage or other factors.
Even if the contaminants are removed from the underlying substrate, they may still be present in or on other surfaces, such as the floor, ceilings, walls and furniture. In these cases, the professionals can spray the entire structure with a biocide to kill any remaining spores and to provide protection against future growth. Then, the contractors can replace the contaminated materials with new material and reinstall electrical, plumbing and HVAC components. In addition to the actual cleaning, all affected areas must be dried and sealed to prevent re-contamination.