Of all the problems you have to deal with as a homeowner, a mold invasion can be one of the most unexpected — and troublesome. If you’ve kept up with the latest information on the health effects of acute or toxic mold exposure, you know it’s not something you want to mess with. Too many (or the wrong kind) of mold spores in the air can lead to all kinds of respiratory problems, to say nothing of skin rashes and even neurological effects.
Then there’s the effect on your property value. This is a huge factor that many homeowners are rightly concerned about, as the effects of a significant mold problem on property values are well documented. In most areas, local and State laws mandate that mold invasions be disclosed to any real estate agents and potential buyers who are interested in your home. In other words, mold can affect that home equity you’ve worked so hard to build. That’s not a situation that any homeowners wants to face.
But what if you do have a mold problem? What if you hire a specialist for mold testing and assessment, only to find that you do indeed have a significant issue on your hands? What’s the protocol for rectifying the problem and restoring your home to full health?
Mold remediation is the answer. You may or may not have heard the term before, and you may be wondering what’s involved and how much it costs.
The answer to both of those questions will change depending on the size and scope of the mold invasion you’re dealing with. The first step is a detailed mold assessment that makes use of the latest infrared technology — in addition to other professional methods — to zero in on the problem and find out just how extensive it is. Once your contractor has a solid idea of where the mold is, and how far it has spread, you’ll get a detailed briefing on how the issues can be fixed.
Mold remediation can (and usually does) involve a number of different methods and steps. The first thing you’ll notice is that any professional mold remediation contractor will be meticulous and orderly in the way they address the problem. That means using all the right protection and equipment to handle the remediation work safely. You’ll normally see mold professionals working with full protective suits. This is because mold remediation involves acute exposure to toxic levels of mold spores, and professionals have to keep themselves protected while they get “up close and personal” with the mold problem.
Sometimes the problem is confined to a relatively small area of the home, and that means the remediation work will be easier and less costly. In other situations, it might be necessary to open up walls or floors, tear out infested building materials, and even throw away furniture that’s been infested beyond the ability to clean. Your mold remediation professional should be absolutely honest with you about what needs to be done, how long it’s going to take, and what it’s going to cost. One thing’s for certain: When you have a real mold problem on your hands, professional remediation is the only viable path forward. As long as you find a truly reputable and experienced specialist, you can be confident that you’ll get dependable results at the fairest rate possible.