Mold Remediation
Mold contamination continues to receive increased attention in the media and is a rapidly growing concern for homeowners and property managers as well as insurance companies. Water and moisture can create the ideal conditions for mold, mildew, and other related bacterial growth. Without proper mitigation of a water loss, mold can start to grow in as little as 48 hours and mold contamination has been identified as a major contributor to building-related illness and poor indoor air quality. Mold remediation is not a difficult service to perform, but principles like containment, negative air pressure, and protection from exposure must be clearly understood.
ServiceMaster Clean’s® method for handling mold is eco-friendly and uses less clean up with H.E.P.A vacuums. By removing and disposing of any drywall that is contaminated we are able to use Dry Ice Blasting and remove all mold growth from the property that may contribute to health hazards.
What is mold?
We have probably all encountered mold at one time or another. It might have been in the shower, on dry walls and ceilings or even on a stale piece of bread. Mold is a microscopic life form found in all parts of the world. It is part of the natural decay process of organic materials.
There are many different species of mold, and while they are diverse, they share some common characteristics:
- Molds require an organic food source. The most common food source indoors is cellulose, which is found in building materials such as wood and dry walls
- Molds require oxygen, so they do not grow under water
- Molds require moisture. To prevent mold, buildings must be kept dry
- Molds are spread by tiny particles called ’spores’
Why is it a problem?
- The coloured, fuzzy growth on the surface of a wall, floor, ceiling or other indoor surface is obviously very objectionable.
- Active mold colonies usually emit a very unpleasant, musty odour.
- Because the job of mold is to digest, decay and recycle dead organic matter, it will eventually destroy whatever surface it grows on.
- Exposure to mold spores can cause mild to severe allergic reactions, depending on individual sensitivity.
What is a reasonable and safe response?
The best way to deal with mold is to prevent it from happening. If the drying of wet building materials is commenced within 24 hours (assuming clean water), the chances of preventing mold growth are excellent. If building materials remain wet, it is inevitable that mold will start to grow. Therefore, addressing and eliminating moisture problems is the critical first step.
Simply put, ‘Got Moisture? - Get Mold!’
However, once mold is present, drying is not enough. Moldy materials must be either removed or decontaminated. This process is called remediation, which means ‘to remedy’ or ‘to cure’. Proper remediation procedures will be determined by the size, scope and nature of the mold contamination.
ServiceMaster Clean Associates are Trained
In the midst of all the hype and hysteria about mold, ServiceMaster Clean is committed to maintaining a reasonable, prudent and responsible position. All ServiceMaster Clean technicians have completed intensive mold remediation training and received instruction in the proper procedures for handling mold claims. All are prepared to handle small (10 square feet or less) and isolated areas affected by mold that may be encountered in the course of normal water damage mitigation services. ServiceMaster Clean associates are also trained and certified to perform larger mold remediation projects. So whether large or small we are able to help you.
