Choosing between mold removal and mold remediation isn’t just about which cleaning method is best. It’s about protecting your home and health. Removing mold involves wiping the surface clean and eliminating visible mold, while mold remediation focuses on the root cause, reducing the risk of mold returning. Both processes have a time and place that they work the best, and understanding the difference is the key.
What is Mold Removal?
Think of mold removal like a Band-Aid. It removes the visible mold but doesn’t fix the underlying cause of mold growth. Techniques to remove mold include cleaning and disinfecting the area to remove any visible signs of mold. However, if you don’t fix any underlying problems, such as a water leak or poor ventilation, the mold will likely come back, requiring further services.
Rooms with constant high humidity, such as bathrooms, are good candidates for mold removal since humidity levels will likely remain high in those areas. However, excessive mold in a shower or other commonly wet areas may require professional services and steps to reduce the risk of future growth, such as increasing ventilation.
What is Mold Remediation?
Mold remediation or mold treatment, focuses on the underlying issue, rectifying it, and removing the mold so that the issue doesn’t occur again. It also includes strategies to eliminate moisture problems and prevent future issues.
Mold remediation is necessary when a large area is affected (usually larger than 10 square feet) and the materials are unrestorable, such as drywall, flooring, or ceiling tiles.
Mold remediation includes many steps, including:
- Preparing the area: Clearing the area of any unaffected items that can be removed and wrapping any furniture or other fixed items in protective layers to prevent the mold from spreading to them.
- Isolating the area: The contaminated area should be isolated from all other areas using plastic sheathing and negative air pressure systems to prevent mold spores from spreading.
- Removing affected items: Any items with mold growth that cannot be restored are properly removed after being contained to prevent mold spores from spreading throughout the house. Common items are damaged drywall, carpeting, and flooring.
- Cleaning the area: Non-toxic mold-inhibiting solutions, such as HEPA vacuums and air scrubbers, are used to capture even the smallest mold particles.
- Prevention: Any areas of concern, such as water leaks or poor ventilation, must be addressed.
When do you Need Mold Remediation?
Mold remediation is often the better solution because it covers the underlying cause, especially if the mold takes up space larger than 10 square feet. However, according to the EPA, mold typically isn’t a problem indoors until it lands on a surface that enables it to grow. Mold thrives in dark, damp spots and often grows underneath cabinets, in crawlspaces, behind drywall, and in basements. Signs that mold remediation may be a good option include:
- Occupants exhibit respiratory issues or allergic reactions to mold
- There is a lingering, musty smell in the home
- There was a recent water leak or water damage
How Likely Is Mold to Come Back After Mold Remediation?
Mold remediation eliminates the existing mold. However, you must address the underlying issues to ensure that mold doesn’t return. For example, if mold grows due to a leaking pipe, but you only remove the mold and don’t fix the pipe, the situation will still exist, and mold will return.
However, no method guarantees that mold will not return. Mold spores are everywhere we go and can travel on things like clothes and shoes. The environment you keep in your home determines if the mold continues to grow. Fixing all leaks immediately, avoiding excessive humidity, and ensuring proper ventilation reduce the risk of mold returning.
Mold Removal vs Mold Remediation: Which is Right for You?
The best way to determine if mold removal or remediation is right for your home is to have a professional mold inspection. At Pinnelli Mold Pros, we offer thorough inspections to help you understand the level of mold in your home, the type via third-party lab testing, and the necessary steps to remove it. Contact us today to learn more.