Mold Testing, Inspection, & Remediation

Mold can be extremely dangerous, rapidly spreading through your residence and causing incredibly amounts of damage. This in addition to the significant health risks mold poses. If an affected area is larger than 10 square feet, you should enlist the help of a professional. Here are the steps that differentiate Covered to ensure the problem is definitively addressed. ​

‍Identify and Isolate: We know exactly how to identify and isolate the problem. It's easy to address spots you can see, but what about the areas you can't see? A professional can determine if you have a problem behind baseboards, wallpaper, paneling, or drywall. They will check under carpeting, under sinks, around pipes, in attics, basements, and in the HVAC system. Once located, the area can be sealed off to prevent the problem from spreading.

‍Cleaning and Disinfecting: Often, personal protective equipment is needed when performing mold remediation to prevent risk and exposure to mold spores. Specialized equipment is also needed and HEPA (High-Efficiency Particular Air) vacuums are often used. Cleanway technicians are trained to utilize the proper equipment and cleaning products to ensure effective mold removal.  

‍Repair and Removal: Once cleaning and disinfection are completed, any damaged porous material must be removed. Any water damage sources, such as leaky roofs or pipes, will need to be repaired. Once addressed, the drying and dehumidification processes are initiated. Cleanway will also inspect and clean your HVAC system to ensure spores are not circulating throughout your residence. ​

Do not be misled by general contractors that claim they are qualified to tackle this problem effectively. Most do not have the proper training, knowledge, or experience to ensure the job is done right. It is best to contact a reputable mold remediation expert that specializes in this field of service.

Mold is a problem that should be taken seriously and addressed quickly. Mold is a type of fungus and the three most common residential forms are: Aspergillus (food, air conditioning), Cladosporium (toilet, painted surfaces), and Stachybotrys atra (aka Black Mold). Untreated areas will continue to spread and can cause serious health issues.
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Health risks associated with mold can range from mild symptoms to death. If someone in your home has a respiratory condition, they are much more likely to be adversely affected. Some types of mold can cause inflammatory or toxic reactions and can lead to pneumonia. Mold can also exacerbate allergies, causing symptoms ranging from fatigue, rashes, and congestion. You should always consult a physician with any health concerns.

The two basic causes of mold growth are moisture and humidity. Under normal conditions, the bathroom is the ideal location to find moisture. It is not unusual to find mold around your toilet or in the grout around your tub, shower, or ceiling. These areas should be cleaned routinely using products specifically designed for the job. Mixtures of bleach are commonly used, but remember that these products are composed of 90% water, so it is important to dry the area thoroughly after cleaning. Basic water leaks or flooding are also major causes that should be eliminated and cleaned up as quickly as possible.

It is very difficult to treat something if you don't know where it is. If you have a leaky pipe or roof that has gone untreated for any length of time, chances are you have a mold problem. You can identify the green or black spots in obvious places. Anything over 10 square feet should be referred to a mold remediation team for specialized treatment. If your roof has been leaking, there is a good chance you have mold behind the paneling, drywall, baseboards, or wallpaper. You may not always see it, but you can probably smell it. If your home smells damp and displays a penetrating odor, you should have a professional evaluate.

Cleaning the area will not stop mold growth. The source of the problem needs to be found and addressed. After finding the source, the affected area needs to be removed while the structural area is inspected and cleaned.