Mold Removal vs Mold Remediation: Difference Explained

Mold is unsightly and has a distinct musty and earthy smell. Mold exposure can cause skin rashes and aggravate asthma symptoms. If you notice mold growing in your home, move swiftly to address the problem before mold could gain a foothold. You can either reach out to a mold removal specialist or a mold remediation expert near you in Kelseyville for help.
Though often used interchangeably, the terms mold removal and mold remediation refer to different aspects of dealing with mold problems.

Mold Removal Explained

Put simply, mold removal involves removing mold from an environment. Usually mold removal involves merely removing mold and cleaning the affected areas. More often than not, mold removal is a viable option when mold growth is visible and restricted to a small area. Because mold removal does not address the underlying cause of mold problems, mold can come back a few weeks or months after being removed.

Mold Remediation Explained

Mold remediation near me in Kelseyville is a more comprehensive approach to tackling mold problems than mold removal. Mold remediation experts have the knowhow required to identify subtle signs of mold growth, remove mold, and thoroughly clean affected areas to prevent mold from coming back. A mold remediation expert can also help you develop a plan to prevent mold in your home.
Timely mold remediation near me in Kelseyville can help improve air quality at home and prevent health problems associated with mold exposure. It involves cleaning and sanitizing affected areas and items to prevent mold from spreading. Mold remediation addresses the root causes of mold problems and is therefore more effective than mold removal.

Mold Removal vs. Mold Remediation

Mold removal involves physically removing all mold spores from an affected area. It is a short-term solution to mold problems and usually does not address the underlying cause of mold growth. If you simply remove mold and do not address the underlying cause, mold may come back after removal. Mold removal often involves cleaning surfaces with mold-killing solutions and HEPA vacuums. If any of your items are too mold infested to clean, it makes sense to get rid of them.
Like mold removal, mold remediation aims at removing mold in order to lower mold levels, but is a more involved process. Mold remediation experts take a more comprehensive approach to address mold problems than mold removal specialists. Mold remediation near me in Kelseyville focuses not only on mold removal, but also addresses the causes of mold growth.
Professional mold remediation involves a detailed assessment to identify the signs of both visible and hidden mold growth. Mold remediation experts are trained to fix water leaks and other problems that can lead to mold growth. Their experience and knowhow enable them to develop effective plans to control humidity levels, prevent mold spores from spreading to unaffected areas, and restore affected areas to their original condition.
In summary, mold removal is a part of mold remediation. Remediation focuses on managing and mitigating mold issues by tackling both the symptoms and causes of mold growth. It aims for a long-term solution rather than a quick fix.

Common Mold Remediation Mistakes to Avoid

Mold remediation is a complex, multifaceted process and requires careful planning. Even a seemingly innocuous mold remediation mistake can lead to cross-contamination, defeating the purpose of mold remediation.
Here are some common mold remediation mistakes to watch out for.
➢ Ignoring safety protocols: Before handling mold, mold remediation experts should put on PPE including masks, gloves, and goggles. In addition to helping users avoid direct exposure to mold, personal protective equipment can reduce the risk of cross contamination. Mold remediation specialists should also follow best practices for handling mold
➢ Failure to identify the moisture source: More often than not the root cause of mold growth is excess moisture. If the underlying cause of moisture is not identified and addressed, mold will likely return, and your efforts may be rendered futile
➢ Improper containment: Affected areas should be properly sealed before mold remediation begins or mold spores can spread to other parts of the building during removal, potentially leading to a full-blown infestation
➢ Using bleach as a solution: While bleach can kill mold on non-porous surfaces, it’s not effective on mold growing on porous materials, and in some cases, can contribute to mold growth by providing more moisture
➢ Failing to dry the area completely: After mold is removed, the affected area must be dried thoroughly using dehumidifiers and fans to prevent mold from returning
➢ Not testing after remediation: If some mold spores survive after remediation and you skip post-remediation testing, you may never know you have a mold problem on your hands until it’s too late
➢ Ignoring indoor air quality: Poor indoor air quality can lead to excess moisture and create the perfect condition for mold growth. Mold remediation experts should address indoor air quality problems and ensure proper ventilation or mold can persist
➢ Keeping unsalvageable moldy items: Sometimes, mold-infested belongings cannot be salvaged and must be disposed of properly to prevent mold spores from contaminating other areas
➢ Lack of documentation: If you fail to document the remediation process and the steps taken to resolve moisture issues in your building, you may face problems when making a warranty or insurance claim

Why Hire a Mold Remediation Professional?

Mold remediation experts have the knowhow, experience and tools necessary to thoroughly remove mold from affected areas. They can identify mold in hidden areas, such as behind walls or under floors, and ensure that it is removed. Professionals don’t just remove existing mold; they also take steps to prevent future growth. They have access to specialized mold removal tools and follow best practices to prevent mold from spreading.
West Coast Fire & Water is a leading mold remediation service in Kelseyville. Our unparalleled ability to detect and remove hidden mold sets us apart from other Kelseyville mold remediation companies. To consult one of our mold remediation experts, call (888)-617-3786.