Mold can grow whenever there’s excessive humidity or moisture in a home or business for an extended period of time. The problem can originate from sudden water releases, like a burst pipe or large spill, or from a chronic condition, such as a leaking roof or plumbing. Even high humidity or warm, moist air condensing on cool surfaces can trigger mold problems. It’s always best to have any mold concerns evaluated and removed by a certified professional.
With the right conditions, mold can grow almost anywhere. If there is visible growth on wall surfaces, you should be concerned about what may be growing on the wall’s opposite side. The environment inside the walls of a house often differs drastically from the outside and could create a perfect haven for mold. If the wall remains wet for a prolonged period, it’s almost guaranteed that the mold growth on the back side will be worse than on the front. At that point, containing the work space and removing moldy materials, followed by cleaning of salvageable framing, are your best options.
Some types of mold, like “Black Mold”, are a major health concern because of its negative health effect in all age groups, but especially children and the elderly. Mold spores that become airborne cause inflammation, allergies and infections. Allergic reactions include fever, respiratory issues, asthma, eye sensitivity, dry cough, rashes and headaches. It is important that if you suspect the presence of mold within your home or business you contact us immediately so we can evaluate the concerns and set a remediation plan in motion.
Alvarez Restoration’s certified professionals have the training and experience to:
- Identify moisture sources
- Mold sampling
- Evaluate mold growth (visible or suspected)
- Contain damage to the smallest area possible
- Physically remove contamination
- Dry materials to ensure that mold will not return
- Perform or recommend procedures for returning property to a pre-loss condition
- The Mold Remediation Process:
7 Steps to Removing Mold in Your Home or Office
- Call Alvarez Restoration for a Consultation
This is your opportunity to ask any questions about your suspected mold-invaded property, discuss possible causes, testing procedures, the remediation process, health and safety concerns, and costs related to testing and remediation. - Inspection
Alvarez Restoration inspects your property to determine possible sources of water intrusion and to document moisture levels and temperatures. Mold presence is determined by various sampling: air, tape, and slide. The amount of testing usually depends on the amount of visible mold, but a minimum of one indoor and one outdoor air sample is required. This is an essential part of the process. Pre-Testing will determine if these areas of concern are affected with mold, whether there are airborne mold spores, and determine how high the levels are. Some projects may require a third party “Certified Hygienist” who conducts their own sampling and creates a protocol for the remediation plan. - Laboratory Testing
The samplings are sent to a certified test lab to identify the types and levels of mold. Results are usually received within 3-5 business days. - Remediation Plan
You will receive a written Alvarez Restoration proposal. This is based on the lab results and the remediation plan for your specific project. Remediation often includes containment, HEPA air filtration, cleaning, disposing, etc. Alvarez Restoration is a certified mold remediation contractor and uses EPA registered products. - Clearance Test
After the remediation is complete, air testing ensures there’s no more presence of mold. We can provide this, or it’s performed by a certified third party. You will receive a written Clearance Test report. Your health is our priority. - Repairs
Once confirmed there’s no more mold, any necessary repairs are performed. - Celebrate
Life is back to normal 🙂
Key Signs of Mold Presence
- Visible mold/microbial growth, or out of the ordinary discoloration
- Strong, distinct odors
- Past water damage or moisture issues
- Heavy humidity
Alvarez Restoration is a Certified Mold Remediation Contractor. This means we can and will provide direct billing to your insurance company for our services. Additionally, we will work closely with your insurance company to ensure your home or property is restored to a pre-loss condition.
For more information about mold removal please give us a call: 541.727.7340