Mold in your house or business is not only unsightly (if its visible, which often times its isn’t) but it can cause much structural damage and pose health risks if not addressed immediately. We have IICRC (AMRT) experienced mold remediation specialists that could treat for both moisture and mold so you only have to go through mold removal once.

From mold removal services to repair and restoration, our skilled IICRC mold removal contractors offer complete mold remediation and restoration services, leaving your house or business exactly how you remember it.

We will give you peace of mind in an emergency. With 30 to 60-minute response time, our compassionate and dependable specialists will clean up your disaster fast! We can even bill your insurance directly. Call 1-714-746-7611 now for a free, no-obligation estimate. We don’t just restore your home or business, we restore your life.

Call 1-714-746-7611 Now For:

• Free No-Obligation Estimate
• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• 30-Minute Response Time

WHAT IS MOLD

Mold is a microscopic, airborne fungus that exists all around us. It requires both organic material and a consistent source of moisture to grow. In nature, mold plays an important role in the decomposition of organic material. The key to preventing mold is to control moisture. As long as there is a consistent water source, mold will break down organic material into dusty, dirt-like matter.

Many materials in homes and business contain the organic materials conducive to mold growth. In the presence of moisture, drywall, wood, paneling, ceiling tiles, carpeting, insulation, paper, cardboard, fabric, upholstery and even paint will encourage mold growth. If these items remain consistently damp, mold will grow rapidly.

Typically mold grows in thread-like structures and may look fuzzy. While mold may appear blue, green, grey, and black, color alone doesn’t determine the specific variety. Mold growth is common in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements where there are consistent sources of moisture, including standing water, humidity, and condensation. Certain seasons and climates are also more conducive for mold growth as well.

Mold isn’t always visible and it is likely to grow if there is a regular source of water, such as a leaky pipe or a drainage issue. Besides visible mold, other indicators of a mold problem are discolored or peeling paint and wallpaper, crumbling walls and building materials, and persistent musty or damp odors.

Porous materials are most vulnerable to mold growth, as mold spores can invade deep inside. A mixture of bleach and water will clean surface mold, but it will return if the source of the moisture isn’t resolved.

Hard surfaces like glass, plastic, and concrete are less susceptible to mold growth. However, they may become coated with other materials that do support mold growth. Surface cleaning may temporarily resolve mold issues on hard surfaces, but you will still need to locate the originating source of mold and moisture.

HEALTH RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH MOLD

Mold does pose a health risk but sensationalized news reports and deceptive marketing have created misconceptions about the severity of mold exposure, especially black mold. For most people, symptoms are similar to other allergic reactions.

The allergens produced by mold often cause nasal or chest congestion, sneezing, dry or itchy eyes, skin irritation, headaches, and fatigue. Reactions to mold exposure may be immediate or delayed.

Individuals with upper respiratory issues, including allergies and asthma, are prone to more severe symptoms. While rare, those with immune deficiencies or chronic lung illnesses may develop lung infections or other serious health issues.

The Environmental Protection Agency and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention both recommend removing mold in all residential and commercial buildings as quickly as possible to limit the health risks of mold exposure.

Learn more about the health risks of mold.

WHAT IS BLACK MOLD

Black mold is the common name for Stachybotrys chartarum, a particularly virulent species of airborne fungus that has been linked to several severe health issues. As the name suggests, it is usually is a greenish-black color, but it can be a variety of other colors as well. Like all molds, it requires moisture to grow.

While it is commonly associated with water damage, sewage backups, or flooding, black mold is just as likely to grow in areas prone to humidity or condensation and places that are persistently damp. Drywall, paneling, wood, ceiling tiles, carpeting, insulation, paper, cardboard, fabric, upholstery, dust, lint, and even paint can quickly become a breeding ground for black mold when they are wet.

One of the reasons why black mold is so dangerous is that it is difficult to distinguish from other varieties of molds, fungus, or mildew without costly scientific analysis. Due to the health risks associated with black mold, we advise you to take safety precautions if you encounter any type of mold and avoid trying to clean up black mold on your own.

Symptoms of black mold exposure are similar to allergies, although young children, the elderly, and those with mold allergies, upper respiratory issues, and immune deficiencies may experience more severe symptoms. Our black mold removal techniques will safely remove the mold from your home or business, reducing the risk of these symptoms.

Because it is difficult to identify strains of mold, it’s best to assume any visible mold could be black mold. Our expert mold mitigation specialists are properly equipped for black mold cleanup. We prevent cross-contamination, ensuring your family is safe and healthy, during the black mold mitigation process.

WHAT IS MILDEW

While they are not identical, mold and mildew are often used interchangeably. Closely related to mold, mildew is a different variety of fungus that decomposes organic material in the presence of moisture. Although mold can be a variety of colors, mildew is almost always white. Mildew may cause similar health symptoms and risks as well. The cleanup process for mildew is very similar to mold removal and remediation.

WHAT IS MOLD REMEDIATION

Mold is highly destructive to property and structures if not properly cleaned in a timely manner. Over time, mold can weaken drywall, wood, and other building materials. If left untreated, you may develop structure issues with the building. Additionally, mold exposure may cause allergy-like symptoms. In rare cases, it can pose severe health risks.

Our mold remediation and removal process begins with an initial assessment and free estimate. We then repair the originating source of moisture and remove materials contained with mold. Then we clean, deodorize, and sanitize the affected area to prevent a recurrence. If necessary, we also fix water damage associated with the source of moisture that caused the mold. Finally, we restore your home or business to its original condition.

Repair the Source of Moisture

Some source of water is always the cause of mold growth. As long as there is a consistent source of moisture, mold will continue to grow even after repeated surface cleanings. Whether it’s persistent condensation in a bathroom or a leaky kitchen faucet, the source of water needs to be identified and fixed.

Mold Removal

Once the water issue is repaired, the mold can be removed. In most cases, porous materials like drywall, wood, and carpeting will need to be cut out and replaced. Contaminated materials will be properly bagged and discarded to prevent further mold growth. Depending on the severity of the mold contamination, it may also be necessary to isolate the area to prevent cross-contamination.

Clean, Deodorize, and Sanitize

Next, we professionally clean and sanitize non-porous items, furniture, fabric, clothing, and personal items to remove mold spores and organic material that could cause a recurrence of mold. We may also use specialize air filtration equipment to limit mold spores in the air. If necessary, we will deodorize affected areas and materials.

Reconstruction

The final step to mold remediation is rebuilding and restoring the area to the original condition. This may include hanging new drywall, laying new carpeting, installing new tile, and painting walls and ceilings. In some extreme cases, it may be necessary to replace countertops, bathroom vanities, or kitchen cabinets.

HOW MOLD REMOVAL IS DIFFERENT FROM MOLD INSPECTION AND TESTING

Mold inspection and testing is the process of identifying a mold contamination and determining the specific strain of mold, such as black mold. Mold removal is the process of removing materials contaminated with mold, fixing the source of moisture that caused mold in the first place, and disinfecting the area to prevent it from returning.

The regulations for mold inspection and testing vary state by state. Several states require that mold inspection and mold removal are completed by separate companies to prevent fraud. Although some of the mold removal contractors in the Restoration industry may offer inspection or testing, our primary focus is mold removal and remediation.

While mold inspection may be necessary in certain circumstances, mold inspections and testing can be extremely expensive. Additionally, all types of mold are removed through the same process, so knowing the specific type doesn’t offer any advantage. If you see visible mold or have a consistent source of moisture, you may consider skipping the mold inspection in favor of getting straight to mold removal.

Home mold testing kits are available, but they are largely unreliable. Mold spores exist all around us, so it is very likely they will contaminate the testing container. In effect, you are paying for inconclusive results. If you cannot see mold but are concerned there is a mold contamination, an independent mold inspection is the best option. For a professional certified inspector to test in your home contact Universal Inspect

Mold Air Quality Tests

An air quality test is another method of detecting for mold in your home or business. In addition to testing for mold, air quality tests also identify allergens, pollen, asbestos, and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Unfortunately, the presence of mold in an air quality test does not guarantee you have a mold contamination in your property. Mold spores exist naturally in the air, so it is common for them to appear on an air quality test. Air quality tests are better at identifying ventilation issues.

Due to the regulation of mold testing, including air quality tests, 411 Restoration is focused on removing and mitigation mold issues.

WHY CHOOSE A PROFESSIONAL MOLD REMOVAL COMPANY?

Mold is the symptom of some water issue. Cleaning with bleach is only effective at treating the symptom. If the source of the water isn’t identified and resolved, the mold will return. A professional mold remediation company treats for both mold and water, ensuring the problem is fixed permanently.

Find a mold remediation technician in your area now. If you need immediate assistance, call 1-714-746-7611 now to be connected to our on-call mold removal and restoration company for a free, no-obligation estimate.

Local Professionals

411 crews are local, trained professionals with years of training and experience in mold remediation, removal, and restoration.

Always Free Estimates

Let 411 Restoration experienced professionals assess the extent of your mold damage and provide a free, no-obligation estimate on restoring your home or business to its original condition.

24-Hour Emergency Service

We offer 24-hour emergency services for mold remediation and removal.

30-Minute Response Time

We offer 30-minute rapid response to limit the damage and reduce the cost of repairs.

Licensed and Insured

411 professionals are licensed and insured to ensure you are protected throughout the restoration process.

Professional Equipment and Techniques

411 restoration crews use professional grade equipment and advanced techniques to restore your home or business.

We Work With Your Insurance Company

Navigating what is covered by insurance can be difficult. We can work with your insurance company to get as much covered as possible.

COMMON CAUSES OF MOLD GROWTH

Mold requires both organic materials and moisture to thrive. Most building materials and many of the items we regularly have in homes and businesses provide the necessary organic component to mold growth. Any persistent source of moisture could lead to an outbreak of mold.

• Persistent Condensation
• Consistent Humidity
• Leaky Water Pipes and Plumbing Fixtures
• Flood Damage That Was Improperly Cleaned Up
• Leaking Roofs or Windows
• Improper Drainage of HVAC systems

EFFECTS OF MOLD DAMAGE

Cosmetic Damage

In the short term, mold will cause unsightly cosmetic damage. Mold is likely to grow porous surfaces, including walls, wood, and under carpeting. Odors may develop over time as well.

Structural Damage

Long-term, mold may cause structural damage. From crumbling drywall to deteriorating wood, mold will eventually begin to consume building materials.

Health Risks

Mold can cause allergy-like symptoms in individuals prone to asthma, allergies, and other upper respiratory issues. In rare cases, those with chronic lung illnesses or immune deficiencies may develop serious health issues like lung infections.

HOW MUCH DOES MOLD REMEDIATION AND REMOVAL COST?

It’s difficult to predict the cost of mold removal and restoration without seeing the extent of the damage first hand. Common factors that impact restoration costs are the:

• Extent of damage caused by the water
• Amount of cosmetic damage caused by mold
• Size of the area affected
• Types of materials involved
• Difficulty of extracting the water, if there is water damage
• Amount of reconstruction necessary

Your insurance policy may cover some or all of the cost of mold removal, remediation, and restoration. Call 1-714-746-7611 now for a free, no-obligation estimate on mold restoration.

AREAS MOST LIKELY TO BE AFFECTED

Mold can affect any room, although certain factors make specific rooms and areas more susceptible to mold growth.

Kitchens

Kitchens are prone to mold because of excessive humidity or condensation associated with poor ventilation. The most common places for mold are around and under sinks and above cooktop surfaces. Leaky or malfunctioning dishwashers or refrigerator ice makers also may cause water damage and mold.

Bathrooms

Like kitchens, bathrooms are also prone to mold growth due to poor ventilation, humidity, and condensation. Bathroom mold is especially common on walls, tile, and ceilings. Leaky water supply lines and drain pipes may also cause mold.

Basements

Basements are prone to both water damage and mold growth due to the high percentage of plumbing and drainage systems. Mold is especially common in unfinished basements because they are infrequently used.

Walls

Most wall materials are porous, which makes it difficult to remove mold permanently using do it yourself cleaning methods. Discoloration, bulging and cracked or peeling paint are common signs of mold growth on or in walls.

CALL NOW FOR MOLD REMOVAL AND REMEDIATION SERVICES

From under sink mold to extensive basement mold, our local mold remediation professionals are here to help. No matter the cause of mold in your home or business, our team will clean it up. Mold is always the symptom of some source of water. Let our mold removal technicians assess the situation, resolve the water issue, and remediate the mold.

Call 1-714-746-7611 now for a free, no-obligation estimate. We always offer 24-hour emergency service and a 30-minute response time. Let our compassionate and dependable restoration specialists give you peace of mind in an emergency.