The heat and humidity certainly invades the Chesapeake Bay region during the summer months, creating a plethora of issues for property owners, especially with mold. If you suspect that you have mold in your home, it is a good idea to call a mold remediation and removal professional who offers a free mold inspection.
Mold growth in a home is a serious problem, and one that could cause serious health complications, especially with the more noxious strains of mold. As spores are released into the air, both people and animals (if you have household pets) will inhale or even ingest the spores. This may cause an allergic reaction, headaches, nausea or respiratory concerns.
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So, what can you expect from a “mold remediation and restoration professional†when he arrives at your home?
“Mold can begin to grow in as little as 24-48 hours. It only needs the right temperature, moisture and a food source. Upon our arrival, the first thing we do is address the source of the invading moisture or water.†remarks Darrel Gottschalk, owner of GottPower, a full-service mold remediation and restoration company located in Pasadena, Maryland. “It is important to stop the water infiltration as soon as possible. Mold will continue to grow until the source is addressed.â€
According to Gottschalk, it is imperative to call a professional immediately if you suspect mold. When you call a professional for a possible mold issue, there are specific steps that should be followed.
THOROUGH INSPECTION
Upon entering your home, the company should provide a free, visual inspection. It should be thorough, because although mold may be visible to the “naked eye,†it could also be growing under carpets or in ceiling tiles. If it seems severe, and a homeowner’s insurance claim is going to be filed, an outside lab “pre-test†is recommended.
PREPARING THE SPACE
Once the extent of your mold problem is diagnosed, the mold remediation specialists will then ensure the area is contained before any mold is treated or removed.
“It is Important to prevent spores from entering into the home. This prevents further contaminating the space as mold spores will most likely be disturbed during the remediation process.†comments Gottschalk. “We will contain the area and use an air filtration system to protect the area.â€
MOLD REMEDIATION AND RESTORATION
If the space to be treated is larger than 3ft by 3ft, if the surface is porous such as drywall or soft, like furniture, it may need to be removed and discarded. A specific microbial biocide will be applied to kill any remaining mold and help prevent the further growth of new mold. Depending upon the extent of the issue, structural repairs may be necessary. If the problem occurred near your HVAC unit, or if there is extensive damage, it is highly recommended that your HVAC unit be serviced and your ventilation system cleaned and treated for possible mold infiltration. Completely servicing your property’s air heating and cooling system will help to ensure the entire problem is addressed, and could prevent any recurring mold-related issues.
POST TESTING
After the remediation and restoration process, it is HIGHLY recommended that you ask for a mold post-test. A proper test will give you the satisfaction of knowing that your property is now safe.
“A reputable company should guarantee its work. We’ve always provided post-testing and, if for some reason it fails, we will redo any work on our dime. We want our customers to trust in the service we provide 100 percent.†promises Gottschalk.
If you have suffered water damage, such as a flooded basement, or water leaks due to a storm, or plumbing issues, contact the mold remediation specialists at GottPower. They promise to adhere to the strictest government standards and are M.H.I.C. Licensed and Insured. They are also certified members of the National Association of Mold Professionals, Indoor Air Quality Association, National Air Duct Cleaners, and Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration.