The Difference Between Mold Removal and Mold Remediation

What Is The Difference Between Mold Removal and Mold Remediation?

When dealing with a mold problem in New Jersey properties, the terms “mold remediation” and “mold removal” are used quite often. These terms may not mean anything to your average South Jersey homeowner or South Jersey business owner. So, what is the difference between the two terms? Removal and remediation are often used interchangeably by mold professionals. This, in large part, is because removal is a more recognizable term for the average property owner. Technically, mold removal is just one step in a multi-step mold remediation process. A thorough and proper scope of work includes: identifying the source, containing the problem, cleaning & disposal (removal) and making preventative recommendations.

Mold Remediation– the removal, cleaning, sanitizing, demolition, or other treatment, including preventive activities, of mold or mold-contaminated matter that was not purposely grown at that location.

If you are looking for a reputable mold removal company in South Jersey, be sure to ask about their process. Since the terms are used so interchangeably, the difference between mold removal and mold remediation is going to be in the process. Before hiring just any mold professional in your New Jersey area, make sure that their process covers source identification, containment, cleaning & disposal and preventative recommendations. Each part of the cleanup process is important in order to deliver a safe and effective mold cleanup.

What To Look For In The Professional Mold Removal Process

If you are faced with a widespread mold problem in your New Jersey home or business, you will want to enlist the professional assistance of a mold removal company. But, before you hire just any mold removal company, it is important to take a close look at their cleanup process to ensure that the job will be properly executed. The difference between mold removal and mold remediation is that actual removal of the mold is simply one step of a very complex mold cleanup process. Since the terms are used interchangeably by professionals in the industry, a close look at the cleanup process will provide a great deal of insight into the quality of work to expect.

1. Source Identification: In order to address excessive indoor mold growth, it is important to identify the cause and moisture source. In order to guarantee a successful mold cleanup and prevent the re-growth of mold, the moisture source needs to be properly addressed. A professional removal company should be able to get to the bottom of where the moisture starts and stops. If the moisture problem is not resolved, mold re-growth is inevitable, despite a successful cleanup.

   Initial Assessment– During the initial assessment, a trained mold inspector will gather information to determine the possible moisture source. However, despite advance equipment and technology, there are still limitations to what an inspector can see during the initial assessment.

   During the Work– Once a team of mold removal technicians has the opportunity to set up the necessary containment and get a closer look at what might be hidden behind building materials, the mold removal team will be able to confirm the moisture source.

2. Containment & Safety: Airborne mold spores can travel to, land on and contaminate virtually any surface. Naturally, the mold removal process will disrupt settled spores and force spores into the air. Before starting the project, mold removal technicians have to isolate the contaminated areas with containment barriers. Proper and effective containment will prevent cross-contamination to clean, unaffected areas.

   Safety & Personal Protection– Mold is considered a bio-contaminant, which is why South Jersey homeowners and property owners are advised not to handle a large mold contamination on their own. Mold removal technicians must follow strict safety protocols when dealing with mold. This includes covering and protecting clean areas of the property, maintaining safe indoor air quality and wearing adequate personal protective equipment.

3. Cleanup & Disposal: In many cases, mold can be effectively removed from the surface of certain building materials by following the IICRC S520 Mold Remediation Protocol. However, depending on the type material and the severity of contamination, some building materials may be deemed non-salvageable and must be removed and safely disposed of. Mold removal technicians should be trained in the most advanced cleaning and demolition techniques in order to ensure safe and effective execution of the work.
4. Prevention: Mold remediation means the removal of mold AND the prevention of re-growth. By understanding the moisture source and original causation, a mold professional will be able to make recommendations for the necessary preventative measures to ensure that the mold problem does not return.

Professional Mold Remediation Process in South Jersey

While different professional mold removal companies may prefer a specific chemical brand or machine type over another, every scope of work should include similar steps, techniques and protocols. Ultimately, the mold cleanup process should be designed to drive the best results possible without compromising safety or effectiveness.

1. Initial Mold Assessment- Collect information to develop a safe & effective mold removal plan
2. Containment Barriers- Contain the mold and prevent cross-contamination
3. Cover & Protect- Cover work areas to keep home safe and clean
4. Air Filtration- HEPA-filtered air filtration to maintain clean & safe air quality
5. HEPA Vacuum- Remove surface mold spores from affected building materials
6. Demolition & Removal- Surgically remove & dispose of non-salvageable materials
7. Antimicrobial Application- Destroys surface mold in the affected areas
8. Mold Root Removal- Concentrated hydrogen peroxide agent removes embedded mold roots
9. Scrub & Clean- All surface mold is scrubbed, wiped and cleaned off of affected materials
10. Re-HEPA Vacuum- Done after cleaning to completely remove any remaining spores & roots
11. Mold-Proof Coating- Applied to cleaned surfaces to help prevent mold re-growth
12. Confirm Cleanup- Post remediation inspection to verify a successful cleanup

Following a proper, safe and effective mold removal, it is important to follow all preventative recommendations and moisture control measures to ensure that you do not experience mold re-growth in the future.

The key difference between mold removal and mold remediation is in the overall cleanup process. Regardless of word choice, you ALWAYS need to take a close look at the cleanup process to ensure that the mold is safely and effectively addressed.

Basement mold removal, attic mold removal and crawl space removal are some of the most common mold services needed. These areas are hot spots for moisture problems and mold growth. Mastertech Environmental is a local mold remediation company in South Jersey servicing all of Camden County, Gloucester County and Burlington County. We provide everything from air quality testing for mold in Collingswood to basement mold remediation in Mullica Hill. Call our local South Jersey office today to learn more — 609-948-8844.

Additional Resources

• The Importance Of Containment During Mold Remediation