If you have just paid a huge sum of money for water restoration or repairs to your home after an unforeseen event, the last thing you want to do is shell out more money for mold remediation.
Fortunately, most home insurance policies cover mold remediation for certain circumstances in South Carolina.
In fact, waiting too long for mold remediation can increase the price of the service while also putting your health and home at risk.
Many customers are initially reluctant to sign up for mold remediation services until they realize the extent of the damage after inspection. While this blog will outline a few scenarios when mold remediation is required, we like to note that the extent of harmful mold growth often extends beyond what most homeowners are aware of, and very often, they are late to enlist in mold remediation when that money could have been saved up front.
1. Extensive Mold Growth
When mold spreads beyond a small, localized area, it indicates a significant moisture issue that needs professional attention.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends hiring professional remediation services if mold covers more than 10 square feet, as extensive infestations can compromise indoor air quality and affect your health.
Worse yet, mold spores can spread quickly through the home and infect other areas, jacking up the cost and difficulty of removal. Unfortunately, DIY is simply not sufficient for large areas of mold, especially if it has spread beyond surfaces, such as walls, ceilings, and floors.
2. Mold Growth After Water Damage
Water damage is an unfortunate reality that just about every homeowner in Oconee County will face at some point. Whether it’s a busted pipe, a leaking appliance, or flooding from a storm, extreme water damage can compromise your home’s integrity and cause mold to proliferate.
In most cases, black mold takes as little as 24-48 hours to form over water-damaged areas. Once established, tiny seeds can spread through the air, allowing mold spores to travel throughout the immediate area.
Mold remediation is not just about removing mold but also about addressing moisture-related issues that are the source of the mold.
3. Mold in HVAC Systems
Mold growth inside heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems is more common than people think and can be a major concern. Unfortunately, one byproduct of failing to service your HVAC system every year is that it may allow mold to grow, especially if you are not properly allowing the system to shut off or cleaning vents regularly.
When mold spores enter air ducts, they can spread throughout the entire home or building, continuously exposing occupants to airborne mold.
Mold growth in HVAC systems is one of the most difficult to detect and remove without professional equipment. HVAC systems often require deep cleaning and replacement of contaminated filters, but remediation may be required if mold has spread throughout the home.
4. Toxic Mold Species Identified
Certain types of mold, such as Stachybotrys chartarum (commonly known as black mold), produce mycotoxins that can cause severe health problems. Exposure to toxic mold has been linked to respiratory distress, neurological issues, and long-term health complications.
Professional removal is recommended for dealing with mycotoxins, as most residents don’t have the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) necessary to handle dangerous mold.
5. Mold Causing Structural Damage
Not only does mold indicate water damage that could actively be impacting structural components in your home, but mold can actively degrade the integrity of these structures if exposed long enough.
Certain materials, like drywall, often need to be entirely cut away and replaced, as some species of mold cannot be entirely removed from the surface.
Most mold remediation companies, like Palmetto State Restorations, specialize in mold-related repairs in addition to removal.
6. Persistent Musty Odors
The unfortunate truth is that mold can often linger in homes unnoticed for several months or years. In instances with a persistent mildew-like smell, you may be dealing with extensive mold exposure hidden from view.
Unfortunately, this mold will be very difficult to remove on your own and will often require a professional remediation company to eliminate the problem entirely.
7. Individuals with Health Conditions or Weakened Immune Systems
Finally, it’s recommended that any individuals suffering from weakened or compromised immune systems do not remove mold themselves and contact a professional instead. Mold has been linked to numerous adverse health effects, as listed above, and can compromise your health and safety.
Benefits of Professional Mold Remediation Services
Like many South Carolina residents, chances are you, too, have the urge to DIY everything in your home. However, mold is no joke, and a professional should almost always handle clean-up.
Not only does professional mold remediation save you from the harmful effects of direct mold exposure, but it can also benefit you in several additional ways.
- Ensures Proper Removal: Professional mold remediation companies have access to proper tools that can assess air and surface moisture, determining if the environmental conditions that cause mold are properly removed.
- Works with Insurance Companies: Companies like Palmetto State Restorations help clients submit claims to insurance companies and act as liaisons to help reduce any and all out-of-pocket costs.
- Protects Your Health: Direct mold exposure can cause skin irritation, harm to your immune system, and allergy-like symptoms. Let a professional handle the dirty work so you and your family can stay safe and healthy.
- Assists in Repairs and Restoration: Beyond the physical process of mold removal, a mold remediation company can also assist in actively repairing your home or working with subcontractors to ensure proper repairs are made.
While you may be reluctant to hire a professional mold remediation company, you could end up costing yourself more money in the long run. Not only does insurance cover mold remediation costs for sudden accidents like floods and burst pipes that cause mold, but mold can spread, thus requiring more resources and labor to remove.
FAQs
Can mold come back after remediation?
Yes, mold can technically return if the moisture issue is not resolved during remediation. However, most companies are equipped with proper equipment that addresses moisture issues and stops them at the root.
Is black mold more dangerous than other types of mold?
Black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) produces mycotoxins that can cause serious health issues, but all molds have the potential to be harmful in large quantities.
Can I clean mold myself?
For small areas (less than 10 square feet), you can use household cleaners, but larger infestations require professional equipment and expertise.