Mold Remediation vs. Mold Removal – Is There A Difference?

Mold remediation is needed in situations when mold grows in an area where there is sustained moisture. At this time of year when frozen pipes can lead to ruptured water lines, the risk of needing mold remediation is significant. Mold remediation is not the same as mold removal, although some restoration companies advertise it as such. They even go so far as to guarantee the removal of mold, but this is virtually impossible to guarantee because it is impossible to do. READ MORE

Whether you want to call it mold remediation, mold removal, mold mitigation or mold abatement – these are all interchangeable terms that in some way involve treatment for mold growth.

Prevention of Mold Growth
New mold begins to grow in moist environments within 24 to 48 hours. When your home has sustained flooding due to a plumbing line break, for example, if the water is not removed quickly and the area thoroughly dried as soon as possible, it is likely that mold will start to grow.

Mold remediation involves the removal and clean-up of contaminated materials to prevent fungi from entering the area. If the mold covers a large area (10 square feet or more), it’s best not to try to treat it yourself, but instead, call for professional mold remediation. There are serious side-effects from exposure to some types of mold. Significant mold growth requires professional mold remediation to eradicate the moisture source.

Killing mold with chemicals and proteins can cause reactions in humans and are unsafe. For more effective mold remediation the professionals at AAS Restoration have these suggestions:

• Evaluation
  Prior to mold remediation, the contaminated area must be assessed to ensure safety, clean up of the entire moldy area and a proper approach to eliminating the mold.
• HVAC Cleaning
  Best done by a trained professional wearing the appropriate protective clothing, masks and gloves is safest.
• Equipment and Techniques
  • Dry brushing or use of an agitation device works best. Wire brushing or sanding is used when microbial growth can be seen on solid wood surfaces such as framing or the subfloor.
  • Wet vacuuming is a method approved by the EPA and is used on wet materials.
  • Damp wipes can be used for mold removal from non-porous surfaces by wiping or scrubbing with water and detergent and drying quickly.
• HEPA – a high-efficiency particulate air vacuum – is used for mold remediation in areas after contaminated materials have been removed and the areas dried thoroughly. 
• Disposal – Debris and dust that is collected are stored to prevent potential release. It is sealed in the remediation area and usually discarded along with ordinary construction waste.

Mold spores are dangerous, whether alive or dead, so mold cleaning may be required even after mold remediation. You may notice discoloration or staining in areas where mold was present. It is important that all-inclusive mold remediation and stain removal should be performed to ensure a safe, indoor air environment.

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. Learn more about AAS Restoration’s mold remediation process.

If you have discovered mold in your home call AAS Restoration. We have the training, equipment and experience to deal with mold remediation. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage and reduces cost. Through advanced training in IICRC, IAQA and CCRN, our certified technicians make up one of the most knowledgeable and professional response teams in the Kansas City area. AAS Restoration has an IAQA Certified Microbial Restorer on staff.

Contact AAS Restoration and we will provide you with options for mold remediation in Kansas City. 

Office: 816.861.1550 • Fax: 816.861.1056

3131 Wheeling Avenue • Kansas City, Missouri 64129

24 Hour Emergency Service: 816.861.1550

Toll Free: 1.866.WE DRY KC