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Frequently Asked Questions
Why do you recommend dehumidification?
Mold needs two things to survive: food and moisture. We recommend maintaining a proper amount of humidity in the home in order to prevent mold growth. You cannot eliminate the food supply for mold in your home (drywall, carpeting, wood, etc.), but you can control the humidity. By keeping your home’s relative humidity between 40% - 50%, you can inhibit mold growth and create a healthier breathing environment.
How do I know if I have a mold problem in my home?
Generally, where there are active mold colonies, there is a musty odor from the mycotoxins that are produced by the growing mold. It's important to remember that you may not be able to see the mold, and that sometimes people do not recognize it when they can see it. While some molds are black, many are not. If you notice brownish "tea stains" on you walls or ceilings, there is likely mold growing behind the drywall. If you see suspicious spots or growth, notice a musty smell, or if people in your home are beginning to feel sick, you should have your home inspected.
How do you test for mold?
We use the Air-O-Cell method, which draws air samples through a chamber for a proscribed period of time. We feel that this is a very accurate way to test the air. Some people prefer to use the tape-lift method, and others use settling plates, which collect sample spores that drop out of the air. The samples are then sent off to a lab for analysis. Or the best results, the labs always recommend doing a baseline test outdoors for comparison.
How long does it take to remediate?
That depends on the scope of the work involved. Most jobs can be completed within a week, but it simply depends on how much work needs to be done. If other contractors (roofers, insulation companies, etc.) are required, the work will take longer. We try to schedule all of the remediation steps within the same time frame, though, so that the inconvenience to the homeowner can be minimized.
What if I want a second opinion?
A second opinion is always a good idea. There are many different approaches to mold remediation and the costs can vary from one method to another. If you hare having work done in your home, it is important that you feel comfortable with the people you are working with. In general, if you do your homework at the front end, you will be happier with the results when the project is complete.
Can I remediate the mold myself?
The EPA guidelines state that if the affected area is less than ten square feet, you can do the remediation yourself. However, it is important to follow their guidelines if you are going to do the work on your own. For more information, visit: www.epa.gov
What kind of guarantee do you offer?
We carefully oversee all remediation work done by outside contractors and test after each job is complete. When the air tests prove that the air is clean, we will issue a clearance certificate. This guarantees that the work was performed properly, and that the existing mold was successfully removed. The prevention of future mold growth, however, is dependent on the correction of the environment itself. Every remediation job will include a list of recommended steps that need to be taken to prevent future mold growth.
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