Mold Remediation FAQs

moldWhat is mold remediation?

Mold remediation is method used in occupational health to remove or clean up mold from any indoor environment.

Why does mold grow?

Keep in mind that mold needs three things to grow:

  • Food --- wood, fabric, leather, drywall, insulation, dirt and dust are good sources
  • Water --- mold needs moisture to grow.
  • Warmth --- mold thrives in a warm place.

Do you think you have mold?

  • Our initial questions for you will be
    • Is the mold visible?
    • Where is the mold located?
    • Have you had a previous water damage in this area?

These questions allow us to determine where the water intrusion is permeating and causing the mold growth.

What is the first step I should take when I discover mold?

As professionals we recommend you calling a licensed contractor to assist you in the mold remediation process. They have the knowledge, certifications and experienced needed to properly remove the mold.

Things to be aware of when discovering mold:

  • Cross Contamination: cross contamination according to Wikipedia is defined as, the process by which bacteria or other microorganisms are unintentionally transferred from one substance or object to another, with harmful effect. When a professional remediates mold they will create a containment tent to avoid cross contamination.

Areas we commonly see mold in:

  • Moist or damp locations are more likely to have mold.
  • Examples: bathrooms, kitchens, attics and crawl spaces are just a few places that we have removed mold from.

How can I prevent mold growth?

Although mold growth is not completely avoidable, there are a few preventative maintenance suggestions we make. It is very important to properly maintain your home. Inattention to cleaning and maintaining air condition and heating system can cause elevated mold growth in your home.

Please always contact a properly licensed contractor when dealing with mold. If you have any additional questions about mold contact our office at 801-263-9990.

1Can mold cause health problems?
Molds have the potential to cause health problems. Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash. Molds can also cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mold.
2How can I tell if I have a mold problem?
If you have had any long term moisture problems in your house it's usually inevitable they will lead to mold beginning to grow. So if you know you've had some water problems in your home then it's a pretty good sign you could have mold.
3Can I just clean up the mold in my home and worry about the water leak later?
If there is mold growth in your home, you must clean up the mold and fix the water problem. If you clean up the mold, but don't fix the water problem, most likely, the mold problem will come back.
4Does mold smell?
Yes. When you have mold growing hidden away in your house, there will often be a moldy smell.
5What do I do if I see mold in my house but it is only a little bit?
If you can see mold growth, even if it's only small, you should take action immediately and call a professional such as AAA Restoration.
6Should I test for mold?
The primary reason for testing would be to identify the exact types of mold present. The general consensus is that if you see or smell mold, you have mold. And that mold in any abundance is not healthy and should be removed.