A: No, not all mold is bad. There are thousands of different species of mold and only a very small percentage would be considered bad mold. We are referring to bad mold as a mold that presents a health risk or is considered toxic. Most molds are not harmful and many molds are even used for medical and food processing purposes.
A: The most common bad mold found is aspergillius/penicillium. Other common molds can be more toxic, such as stachybotrus (commonly referred to as black mold) and chaetomium.
A: Yes. “Wet molds” are generally found in situations with water damage, water penetration or situations with high moisture levels and excessive humidity. At the same time it is a well-known fact that the number one cause of mold infestation is moisture or excess moisture combined with insufficient ventilation.
A: Not at all. Each circumstance is different and there are many factors that go into evaluating the severity of mold. In most cases, the mold can be removed successfully without a problem. In order for a home or building to be considered unlivable or condemned, there needs to be an extremely high mold infestation. Most properties are not contaminated to this level.
A: A qualified mold test will identify a few things including the species of mold, if that mold is toxic or potentially toxic, and the concentration levels of the mold spores. This information is critical to determine if the mold is active, the levels of infestation, and the potential health risks.
A: In most situations we recommend testing. We feel that the benefits of knowing what you are living with is well worth the test. Also, qualified testing helps the remediator to be more accurate in their assessments because the identification of the mold species and its concentration. No remediator can be 100% accurate without mold testing results.
A: Mold remediation costs will vary because every situation is different. Mold Men always strives to provide fair and competitive pricing with top notch professionals and quality services. The actual price of each job is dependent upon factors such as, but not limited to:
- the size and scope of the mold infestation
- the services that are needed to remediate
- the amount of tear-out and source material removal that is needed to remediate the mold growth
- the number of rooms or areas in a home that are affected
- the accessibility to the mold
Service in the mold business is no different than any other business. You should always check out prospective service providers. You want a company who is honest and has a reliable reputation. We'd love to help you with your mold remediation project, contact us today.
A: Absolutely, yes! A professional remediator will not only carry liability insurance, but, they will carry a pollution work endorsement where mold work is needed. If the service company does not carry this insurance, you could be placing yourself in a potentially liable situation. Mold remediation is dangerous work and this is an important qualification.
A: Mold is a serious issue! You should not choose a mold remediator based on cost alone. Look for someone who will solve your problem correctly and who is reasonably priced for the value of services offered.