Mold Remediation

Timing is critical to the drying of a structure to prevent the growth of destructive mold and mildew. Some species of mold and mildew can cause serious health complications, therefore it is important to have a specialist perform proper removal of contaminated areas.

When conditions are right, mold will flourish. When mold is left unchecked, the environment becomes toxic, hazardous and unsafe. Moisture and mold go hand in hand. To get mold out of a structure, the moisture problem must be addressed at the source.

In today’s litigious environment it is important to call a professional firm to handle mold related issues. Our team of specialists are certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and are trained in the use of the latest technology to properly eliminate harmful microbiological contamination.

Understanding Mold

Mold spores are microscopic – and they exist in almost all places! That includes indoors and outdoors – and makes it very difficult to remove completely. If you think you have a mold problem, understanding the facts about mold will make the process of removal easier.

  • Mold is present indoors and outdoors

  • Mold often produces a musty odor – giving you clues to the source of the affected areas

  • Mold spores are microscopic and travel in the air

  • Mold can enter your home through windows, doors, heating and air cooling systems or even through your pets or clothing

  • Mold spores thrive in moist areas and can quickly spread and grow when exposed to water and air

  • Before mold remediation can begin, the problem sources of water should be addressed or the mold may come back

  • Humidity that is higher than 65% facilitates mold growth

Mold Remediation Process

In the unfortunate event of microbial growth, R&J understands the critical steps involved in successful mold remediation. The drying of a structure is important in the prevention of destructive mold and mildew. Some species of mold and mildew can cause serious health complications and therefore it is important to have a specialist perform proper removal of contaminated areas. Our staff of trained technicians use best practices and the latest technology in remediation to properly eliminate harmful microbiological contamination including:

  • Trained teams, led by experienced and certified supervisors

  • State of the art equipment including thermal imaging cameras and moisture detection equipment to pinpoint the location of moisture that promotes microbial growth

  • We have multiple crews, hygienists and supervisors trained to work quickly and efficiently – getting the job right the first time

  • R&J uses dry ice blasting air washing and media blasting techniques to expedite the work process on larger projects and as needed

  • R&J crews are additionally DOSH certified so we can seamlessly handle any asbestos or lead issues that arise during a mold remediation job

Mold spores are ubiquitous – airborne, ever present, and capable of digesting most organic materials. Mold does not digest inorganic materials (like glass, concrete, metal), but it can grow and digest dirt, dust, and other organic materials on the surface of inorganic materials.

The only requirement for mold growth, since spores and organic materials are readily available, is moisture; not just standing water but moisture as relative humidity above 65%. Control water and relative humidity above 65% and you control mold growth.

Typical to water damage within a structure, standing water naturally evaporates into the interior environment, significantly raising the relative humidity of the building. Opening windows for ventilation of indoor to outdoor air is an effective measure to reduce interior humidity, depending on the exterior weather conditions. Removing standing water and providing air flow to water-damaged surfaces increase the efficiency of the evaporation process but can quickly saturate the interior environment if exhausting to the exterior environment or providing some measure of interior dehumidification is not established.

Since most water damage events do not involve the entire structure, containing the area of water damage provides substantial efficiencies in controlling the evaporation process. If the drying process leaves pockets of water or moisture under or behind cabinets, in wall cavities and under nonporous or semi-porous flooring, mold growth can begin within 24 to 48 hours.

Hidden areas of mold growth can be identified by the musty odor associated with mold and mildew as the first indicator of a problem. Exposure of subsurfaces is paramount to complete water damage restoration or mold remediation as a stand-alone service.

Steps for Mold Remediation:

  1. Perform a thorough visual inspection using state of the art tools such as thermal imaging cameras and moisture detection equipment to determine the precise scope of work

  2. Set up engineering controls, including containment of the work area with 6 mil poly and HEPA-filtered, negative air equipment to prevent cross-contamination of unaffected areas

  3. Perform debris-controlled demolition with specialized equipment to mitigate the spread of mold and other contaminants

  4. Seal all debris in 6 mil poly bags that are cleaned and decontaminated before leaving the containment area

  5. Thorough cleaning of all surfaces by HEPA-vacuuming, wet-wiping, sanding, or media blasting followed by a second round of HEPA vacuuming and wet-wiping

  6. Final inspection to determine that the site is free of visible dust and debris

  7. Perform air scrubbing with HEPA-filtered equipment to remove airborne contaminants

  8. If required, post-remediation testing to fully ensure that all areas meet microbial air quality standards

  9. Removal of contaminants and final cleaning of all areas in preparation for structural repairs