What to Know Before Hiring a Mold Removal Professional
Mold presents a health and safety hazard to you, your family and your guests. It is something that you’ll need to get taken care of immediately.
Removing mold from your home requires time, expertise, and the right tools. It is not something that you should attempt on your own. Many times mold can hide in areas that are difficult to reach. Even if you think you have cleaned it up, the spores can disperse throughout your home. If they are able to settle in a new space with enough moisture, you’ll be facing the same problem again.
A mold removal specialist is skilled at cleaning it to reduce the chances it will spread. Instead, they get it done right the first time.
It may feel overwhelming searching for a mold removal professional. Here are some things you should know before you hire one.
Tips for Hiring the Right Mold Removal Professional
When searching for the right mold removal professional for the job, here are some things to keep in mind.
Professionals need to be paid
Mold removal specialists are skilled professionals, just like electricians or plumbers. While you don’t need to pick the most expensive professional, it’s not a good idea to go with the lowest either. If a mold professional quotes you a price far below the others, you should be wary. It could be a sign that they don’t provide professional cleaning, and you could end up with a mold problem again in the near future.
Communication is key
You don’t need to be a mold removal expert to understand the process and procedure. A professional must be able to explain their approach to you in a way that you understand. When a mold removal professional talks over your head and makes the work sound too complicated, you should find someone else to do the job.
Special equipment is required
Mold removal professionals need to have the right gear and equipment to get the job done correctly. It includes protective safety gear like face masks, gloves, and a protective suit. They’ll also have specialized equipment for the job, such as:
- HEPA air scrubbers
- HEPA vacuums
- Commercial-strength dehumidifiers
- HEPA filters
What to Expect From the Mold Removal Process
A professional will begin the work by sealing off the area. Doing this helps prevent mold spores from spreading anywhere else, including into your HVAC system. They will then start the cleaning process, which will include the following steps:
- Physically clean the mold off the surface it has been growing on
- Remove airborne mold spores using HEPA tools
- Provide good ventilation to the work area to rid the space of the mold smell
- Discard mold-infiltrated building materials such as drywall, baseboards, etc.
- Use antimicrobial chemical for a final clean of the mold or mold stains
- Apply sealant to prevent future moisture from building up and causing another mold growth
Questions to Ask Your Mold Removal Professional
It is okay to research a few different mold professionals. You want to be confident in the team you hire to clean and sanitize your space. Here are some of the questions you should ask.
How long have you been in the industry?
Mold removal is a complex task, and you want to be sure you’re working with someone who has the experience and knowledge to do it well.
What do you charge?
While you want to be sure you can afford the work, avoid professionals that quote you a low price. You’ll often get poor quality work, which will cost you more in the long run.
Do you have liability insurance?
Professionals can still have accidents and be injured while on your property. You want to be clear whether the company is covered for these situations or not. <
Are you certified for mold removal work?
Mold poses a health risk for anyone. You should understand the training that your professional has taken and whether they have earned certifications. They should be knowledgeable about the right way to handle materials and prevent spores from spreading.
Do you provide a guarantee or warranty?
Mold removal professionals may supply you with a warranty for the work. You must understand what it covers and what it does not.
Finding mold in your home or business can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. When you find the right mold removal professional, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that they can do the job right.
If you need mold removed from your property, contact Firestone Restoration.