Frequently Asked Questions
Mold Removal
How Do I Know if I Have Mold in My Home?
Mold can be found in several places in the home environment. It appears most often in moist or wet areas. A musty odor may also be present. Mold begins to grow indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are wet or damp. Mold will not grow without water or moisture. Therefore, it is important to dry out wet or moist areas within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth.
Some examples of places where mold can be found inside the home include:
- Basements, kitchens (bottom of fridge), around bathroom vanities, washer/dryer area.
- The underside of carpets and pads.
- The surface of walls behind furniture (where condensation forms).
- Ceilings and the top side of ceiling tiles.
How Do I Prevent Mold From Growing in My Home?
The following may prevent or reduce indoor mold growth:
- Repair all water leaks & moisture problem areas.
- Provide good air circulation.
- All HVAC systems should have a good electrostatic filter on the return.
- Insulate and ventilate attic & crawl space areas.
- Clean, Dry, or remove items that are damaged by water immediately.
What Are the Health Effects of Mold Exposure?
Having mold in your home won’t necessarily make you sick, but it does have the potential to cause certain health issues.
Touching or inhaling mold spores can cause allergy-like symptoms such as:
- runny nose and congestion
- eye irritation
- sneezing
- coughing
- sore throat
- skin rash
- headache
- lung irritation
- wheezing
Mold exposure is not an emergency for most people. However, you should let your doctor know if you have a health condition that puts you at greater risk of complications and you believe you’re experiencing symptoms of a mold-related infection.
Can I Remove Mold Myself or Do I Need a Professional?
One of the first signs that you have a mold infestation is the musty odor. Mold has a distinct look and small. It also appears as fuzzy, blue, yellow, black, or purple discolorations on surfaces. It affects the corners of the bathroom, stains the walls, and also grows in between tiles. Mold can also rot wood causing structural problems. But can you remove mold on your own?
The answer is yes, but only if it is not widespread. If the total area affected by mold is less than 10 square feet, then you can probably remove it yourself with over-the-counter detergents. But if the mold is more widespread, then we strongly recommend that you hire a reputable mold removal and remediation contractor like Mold Fix. Here are the reasons you need to hire an expert:
- Mold itself is hazardous to one's health. Prolonged exposure to it can cause respiratory problems. This is one reason you want to leave this type of work to a professional who is properly equipped and trained.
- Sometimes, mold grows in hard-to-reach areas such as the attic, roof, gutters, and behind appliances. If you're untrained and poorly equipped, you may not be able to eradicate mold from these places.
- As an amateur, you may actually reintroduce even more mold into your home in an attempt to clean it.
- Mold occurrence most likely means a water leak or water damage somewhere. Proper mold removal and remediation means dealing with the root cause of the problem, which includes fixing the water leaks.
- Mold remediation (ensuring mold does not recur in the future) is something only a competent and licensed professional can do.
- You may damage the air ducts in the process of mold removal.
To schedule an appointment for licensed and professional mold removal and remediation in Orange County, CA, call 949-449-5949.
Is Mold Removal Permanent?
Every homeowner dreads finding mold around their house and noticing that mold has managed to infiltrate a small or significant part of your home can be worrying.
Mold is usually caused by poor ventilation or an undetected leak somewhere in your home and does more than just ruin your paintwork.
If left untreated, mold can cause significant damage to your home and health and must be taken care of accordingly.
However, for new homeowners or individuals who want to know more: will mold come back after remediation?
Yes, it is possible for mold to return after remediation. However, this will only occur if you fail to find the source of moisture that is responsible for the mold problem in the first place.
As a result, whether the source is a leaking window or a condensation problem, it is essential that you take the precautions to fix it and be mindful that you need to keep on top of the problem.
This is because mold thrives in high-moisture environments. As a result, even if you’ve sought help from a remediation team and have ensured that your home has had all of the mold removed, the mold may begin to grow again if the source of the moisture problem has not been rectified.
For instance, if you have a window that hasn’t been sealed properly or the sealant has started to deteriorate, then mildew and mold could begin to grow.
Temperature changes cause window seals to expand and contract, breaking them down over time. In this situation, it is natural for condensation to appear on the windows, and it can be made worse by bad weather conditions and poor ventilation.
Although condensation might not seem like a big issue in the beginning, over time, mildew and mold can appear around the window due to the moisture as a result of this condensation.
Black spots begin to form, and you’re left with a musty smell that’s noticeable every time you walk into the room.
In this circumstance, it is likely that you might want to hire a mold remediation team to fix the issue. Yet even after removing all traces of mold, the mold could still return unless you solve the main condensation issue, the window seals.
To ensure you keep your home in the best condition, it’s essential that you conduct mold remediation and also locate and fix the underlying moisture problem.
If you don’t take the proper precautions, mold will simply regrow, even if the remediation team did their best to eradicate the mold the first time around.
What Is the Difference Between Mold Remediation and Mold Removal?
Although the two terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they are not the same. Remediation refers to removing contaminated material and mold. On the other hand, mold removal is the basic removal of mold spores from surfaces, but it does not include the removal of contaminated materials.
Mold Remediation
How Long Does the Mold Remediation Process Take?
This typically depends on a number of factors such as how much mold is present, where the mold is growing (behind walls, etc.), and the materials it grows on. Also, it's worth mentioning that mold almost always follows water leaks or water damage. This too has to be addressed and may affect the length of time it takes to complete the process.
Generally, you can expect the process to take anywhere from 1 day to 5 days. For more info, call our customer service line at 949-449-5949
Do I Need to Vacate My Home During the Mold Remediation Process?
Before beginning the mold removal and remediation process, Mold Fix's technicians will create a containment area using plastic sheets and industrial-class duct tape. This is usually done if the mold infestation is more prevalent in certain areas of the house. The goal is to ensure the mold spores don't spread. If there is water damage, this process also ensures that the damage is contained in one part of the house. This generally means that the homeowners don't have to vacate the home during the mold removal and remediation process.
What Does Mold Remediation Involve?
Remediation is the process of restoring something, so in this case, it’s halting mold growth and getting rid of mold. In Orange County, a mold inspection is the first step in the process of making a detailed plan.
- Mold inspection to figure out the extent of the damage to the Orange County property.
- Create a plan to tackle mold growth.
- Contain the mold to the specific area and stop the growth.
- Air filtration for safety using specialized equipment
- Removal of mold
- Sanitizing the area
- Restoring any damaged mold areas
While the process may look extensive, how long it takes depends on the extent of the affected area and species of mold growth. It also depends on how long it takes to dry the area out, limiting future mold growth potential.
How Much A Mold Remediation Costs?
That depends on so much including the size of the impacted area, the degree of damage, whether there is still standing water, how much mold growth there is, what has to be removed from the area, whether the building itself requires some level of demolition, the area you live in, and more. There is no “average” cost of mold remediation and don’t believe anyone who says otherwise. It is on a case by case basis.
Will Mold Come Back After Remediation?
Mold will come back repeatedly if not properly addressed. However, our mold removal and remediation services will ensure that the growth does not return.
Do I Need to Be Home During Mold Remediation?
We recommend that most property owners leave during the mold remediation process to limit their exposure to airborne spores. However, if we have isolated the contaminated space, you may be able to stay in the unaffected areas during the process.
What Happens if You Don’t Remediate Mold?
If left untreated, mold will rapidly spread to other areas of your home. As it does, it can cause serious health troubles and result in expensive home repairs.
What Are the Signs of Mold Toxicity?
When people are exposed to mold growth, especially for long periods, they may experience a range of mold toxicity symptoms. These can include…
- asthma problems
- nasal congestion
- sneezing
- runny nose
- skin rashes
- itching
- watery eyes
- chest tightness
Does Mold Need to Be Professionally Removed?
Although you can attempt to remove mold on your own, doing so is ill-advised. This is especially true for extensive mold problems, likely after severe water damage or years of existence.
The best way to ensure mold is properly eradicated (for good) is to hire experienced, industry-trained professionals. We have the necessary tools and knowledge to fully remove the mold infestation and prevent it from returning.
Is Mold Removal Covered by Insurance?
In most cases, no, mold-related damages are not covered by insurance plans. However, coverage will depend heavily on the circumstances of the mold infestation. If you experienced flooding or weather-related moisture problems, your plan might offer some coverage.
If you are working with an insurance agent to handle the problem, let us know. Mold Fix is happy to provide your insurance company with updates and prices as necessary.
Water Damage Restoration
What Should I Do Immediately After Water Damage?
Safety First: Shut Off the Water Supply
The first thing you need to do after any kind of water damage is to shut off the water supply. This is probably the most important step, because if you don’t shut off the water, you’re going to continue having problems.
It’s easy to forget this step, but it’s definitely something you need to do as soon as possible. If you can’t find the shut-off valve, call your plumber and ask for help.
Inspect the Damage
After any kind of water damage, the first thing you should do is inspect the damage. This means taking a good, hard look at the affected areas and trying to determine the extent of the damage.
You’ll also want to make a list of any belongings that have been damaged by the water. It’s important to remember that not everything will be salvageable, so be prepared for the worst.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible after water damage occurs in your home. They will have a claims process that you will need to follow in order to get the damages repaired.
Find a Water Damage Restoration Service
After any kind of water damage, it’s important to find a restoration service as soon as possible. This is a company that will help you dry out your home, remove any water or moisture, and then repair any damage that’s been done.
It’s crucial to find a reputable restoration service, because they have the experience and expertise to get the job done right. And if the damage is bad enough, they might even be able to help you file an insurance claim.
So what should you look for when choosing a restoration service in your area? First of all, it’s important to find one that’s licensed and insured. They should also have experience with a variety of water damage scenarios.
Finally, be sure to read online reviews to get an idea of what other people have said about the service.
Will Water Damage to My Property Cause a Mold Outbreak?
When dealing with untreated water damage, there are several potential health hazards associated with this situation. These include bacteria, viruses, molds, fungi, chemicals, and gasses. Some of these substances can lead to respiratory problems, skin irritation, eye irritations, headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, coughing, shortness of breath, and wheezing, among others.
One of the most immediate risks when experiencing water damage is to your property, possessions, and family. It can be incredibly difficult to see these items ruined by a flood or other disaster that leaves them soaked through with wetness from top-to-bottom. Left untreated, water damage can also harm the integrity of your home’s structure. It is important for your health and safety to begin water damage repair as soon as possible. Mold can form due to water damage in as little as 24 hours when water is present, causing water damage that may go undetected until it’s too late. This type of damage may cause a host of safety hazards and structural problems that you may not even be aware of.
What Happens When Water Damage Goes Untreated?
- Structural damage
- Extensive mold infestations
- Health problems
- Electrical damage
- Decreased property value
- Significant repair costs
Is Water Damage Common in Orange County, CA?
California might be known for its sunny climate and usual dryness, but Orange County residents have experienced their fair share of water damage. In recent years, wildfires have contributed to significant moisture-related problems, as have the occasional rainstorm.
What Should I Do Immediately After Water Damage?
Immediately after noticing water damage or flooding, turn off the electricity in the affected space. This will decrease the risk of electrical hazards. Then, remove valuables from the area and call our professional restoration company.
As you await our arrival, you can attempt to dry the space by opening windows and doors. However, we do not recommend removing the standing water without the proper equipment or protective gear.
When Should I Worry About Water Damage?
You should take any sign of water damage seriously. However, you should be especially concerned if you notice:
- Mold or mildew growth
- Discoloration
- Soft or sagging floors
- Sounds of hidden water flowing
What Should I Not Do After Water Damage?
In the event of a water damage incident, do NOT:
- Enter the affected area while electricity is still on
- Attempt to remove the water without protective gear
- Use a regular vacuum to suck up water
- Start throwing things away before reporting damages to your insurance company
Can the Side Effects of Water Damage Go Away on Their Own?
In minor cases, water damage may dry out on its own and cause minimal issues. However, most water damage cases will require professional attention to evaluate and remediate side effects such as mold infestations, bacteria growth, or structural damage.
How Much Water Damage Is Considered “Severe”?
The severity of water damage is determined by the source of water, the amount of water, and the duration of exposure. Gray or black water poses serious threats to human safety and almost always results in a “severe” water damage case.
How Can I Tell if Water Damage Is New or Old?
It’s not always easy to tell if water damage is new or old at first glance, especially if there is no standing water present.
Signs of new water damage include:
- Strong or overwhelming odors
- Soft, spongy textures
- Wet, shiny stains
Signs of old water damage include:
- Warping or buckling
- Stale odors
- Brittle or rough textures
- Discolored, dark stains
Either way, the best move is to call a professional water damage restoration company to assess the damage and the next steps.
How Long Will It Take My Property to Dry Out After Water Damage?
This depends on several factors, including the extent of the damage, the materials affected, and the surrounding climate conditions. The more humid an area is, the longer it will take for the space to dry out after a leak or flood.
Water damage in small spaces can often dry out within a few days. However, extensive damage can take several weeks to completely dry.
How Can I Prevent Mold Infestations After Water Damage?
Preventing mold growth after water damage is crucial to both the state of the property and human health. Mold can spread within less than 48 hours, which is why you need to contact restoration professionals immediately.
Trained mold and water damage technicians will dispose of affected materials that could attract mold. They will also dry out the area, disinfect it, and ensure it receives proper ventilation – all of which will discourage mold spores from spreading.
At Mold Fix, we know that mold moves quickly – but so do we. We’ll arrive at your doorstep, ready to mitigate the water damage and ensure a mold infestation doesn’t occur (now or later).
How Much Do Water Damage Restoration Services Cost?
Usually, water damage costs between a couple thousand to tens of thousands of dollars to completely restore. However, the cost can vary significantly depending on the …
- The extent of the damage
- Materials affected
- Type of water present
- Location of the property
Your insurance coverage will also impact your out-of-pocket costs. To get a better feel for your project’s pricing, schedule an inspection today. Our restoration technicians will provide you with a free quote for our full services.
Mold Testing
How Do You Test for Mold?
You can either test for mold yourself using one of the types of mold tests outlined below or you can hire a professional mold inspector who will come and not only take samples but also conduct a thorough inspection to find potential mold problems and leaks.
If you aren’t sure if you have a mold problem but suspect mold, if you have had a leak or other water intrusion or highly suspect the presence of hidden mold, hiring a professional mold inspector is likely your best option. They can detect mold in walls, under floors, and in places you may not be able to access easily.
How Often Should I Have Mold Testing Done?
- There have been leaks or water intrusions that were not noticed or dealt with immediately.
- When a water event was noticed within 24 hours and the accessible area dried immediately, but water possibly went behind a wall or under flooring.
- When visible mold is not present, the smell of mold is.
- If you think you have visible mold but aren’t sure.
- When unusual stains appear on furniture or building material.
- When there is a suspicion that elevated mold may exist in the air and/or behind walls.
- When you have health concerns or mystery health issues that doctors cannot pinpoint the cause of.
- To establish the presence of mold and the justification for remediation. Many remediation and insurance companies will not authorize or undertake mold remediation if the presence of mold growth is not scientifically demonstrated.
- To “clear” remediation, that is, to show that all mold is gone after remediation. Often, mold remediation will miss a mold-contaminated area. Testing of the air in the contained work area will ensure that the levels inside the work area are reduced to ambient levels. This also provides documentation for future real estate transfers that the mold was properly and effectively removed.
- If you are going to go into litigation to sue for damages from mold exposure.
- Before purchasing a home.
- If you are mold sensitive, before renting a home.
- If there is a Landlord/Tenant dispute as to whether there is a mold problem.
- If you are concerned about overall indoor air quality.
How Do I Prepare for a Mold Test?
When you need a mold inspection, it’s all about ensuring potential spores are intact when the professionals arrive. Here’s what to do (and what not to do).
- Shut Off Humidifiers, Dehumidifiers, and Air Purification Machines for 24 Hours.
Air purifiers and dehumidifiers remove moisture and impurities from the air, which is counterproductive when detecting mold spores. Humidifiers enhance the moisture content in the air, which might accelerate mold growth and distort your results. To ensure your professional gets an accurate reading during the mold inspection process, shut off these devices for at least 24 hours before your appointment. - Close All Doors and Windows for 48 Hours.
It might seem odd, but if mold is inside your home, you’ll want to provide the best conditions for it to grow and stay put for your appointment. By closing your doors and windows, you maximize the accumulation of any spores growing within your home, making them easier to pick up on. - Turn Off HVAC Systems For At Least Two Hours.
HVAC systems circulate the air in your home, potentially diluting any mold spores in the air. Shutting them off for at least two hours before your appointment will help ensure the maximum concentration of spores for easier detection. - No Pruning, Trimming, or Lawn Mowing Outdoors.
Part of your mold inspection involves a baseline assessment of the natural mold concentration in the air around your home. Any chopping, mowing, or pruning might disturb the background mold and distort the baseline measurement. - Avoid Bathing or Showering For 12 Hours Before Your Appointment.
Wherever there’s mold, there’s a moisture problem, which could be from a plumbing leak. Bathing or showering creates excess moisture, which makes it tougher to detect potential plumbing leaks if your professional discovers any mold. - Avoid Cleaning and Using Disinfectant Chemicals for 48 Hours.
Vacuuming, dusting, and heavy cleaning may eliminate mold growth on the surfaces within your home, so you’ll want to avoid it for two days prior to your appointment. On the same token, avoid spraying disinfectants, bleach, and similar chemicals as well. If you spot any substances you believe to be mold, resist the urge to bleach them or scrub them away with vinegar. - Pick a Day With No Rain in the Forecast.
Rain is another factor that can distort your pro’s outside baseline mold assessment. Mold grows fast in wet conditions following rainfall, so this might mask a problem if there are higher concentrations of mold in your indoor air. - Remove All Clutter and Obstacles.
Your mold inspector will need access to all areas of your home, including the attic, so you should remove any obstacles or clutter ahead of time. Be sure to also clear the cabinets beneath the sink and all other areas where mold could be present.
Protect Your Family's Health
If you suspect there may be a mold issue, don't hesitate to call us or contact us today!
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