Mold Remediation Cost

Mold remediation (also referred to as mold removal) in a building is required after mold growth. Mold growth is an indication of existing or past moisture intrusion in the building as moisture is the primary factor that triggers mold growth. Mold growth can begin within 24-48 hours of water coming into contact with building materials and is not noticed or dried properly. Mold growth may also be caused by incomplete drying of flooring materials such as concrete. Mold growth on paneling or other well treated wood is more rare than mold growth on drywall or carpet. Extensive mold growth within the living area of the home, such as a basement or kitchen, must be handled in a very careful manner since disturbing it could result in heavy exposure to occupants to airborne spores. Mold growth on the exteriors of homes and businesses are not considered a health risk by most health care professionals.

Without excessive levels of moisture on building materials, mold growth is unlikely to occur . Moisture can originate from several sources but may become evident far from the original source of the problem. Mold growth is common after plumbing leaks, roof leaks, excess humidity or chronic condensation for a long time. Mold growth may or may not be clearly visible from inside the infested area.  From this discussion, it’s clear that if you have mold, you have a moisture problem. Moisture meters may be helpful for measuring the moisture content in a variety of building materials following water damage.

Mold Remediation Process

Mold remediation is the removal, cleanup and/or control of mold growth within building structures. It is an intensive process that requires the use of specialized equipments depending on the extent of mold growth. Mold remediation involves cleaning up a mold infestation in an indoor structure and removing that mold from the premises.

The company performing mold remediation should ensure that cross-contamination is prevented and that the work is being done by well-trained technicians under a strict protocol. Generally, use of mold remediation products (biocides) is not recommended except under special conditions, for example, where pathogenic microorganisms may be involved. There are generally mold remediation guidelines that any reputable mold remediation company should follow to ensure the job is properly done.

Mold growth can be avoided if the water damaged materials are dried within 48 hours from the time the material came into contact with the water. However, if mold growth occurs, immediate mold remediation is required to avoid extensive mold damage repair. Mold remediation should not be performed without proper investigation and identification of water sources and thoroughly inspecting all areas for possible mold growth and determining the level of remediation required as per the current mold remediation guidelines. Mold remediation should be performed by professionals who know how to properly contain and remove moldy building materials without exposing the occupants to airborne spores.

Mold remediation companies should not be involved in mold investigation and testing since there could be a conflict of interest. Some mold remediation companies supply homeowners with free “mold test kits” and them pressure them for mold remediation if the “mold test kits” show mold growth. This practice is unethical since the fact that the so called mold test kits show mold growth, it does not mean the home has a mold problem.

Mold Remediation Cost

Mold remediation can be costly. Costs vary widely depending on the size of the property, and extent of the mold growth and from province to province or city to city. Generally the cost may range from $500 to $30,000 or more.