The Difference Between Mold Removal, Mold Remediation and Sanitization
If you notice mold in your home, getting rid of it is your number one priority.
It’s important to know what you’re looking for so you can find the right help for your home.
To assist you in your search, here is our guide to the difference between mold removal and mold remediation.
It would seem that these all mean the same thing, but there are few things that separate these activities.
Mold Removal Vs Mold Remediation
The difference between Removal and Remediation is: “Remediation is the act of the removing damaged construction materials when said materials are irretrievable or non-salvageable. Such remediation should be done with precaution due to health concerns for the occupants and the contractor who is doing the work.”
“Mold Removal is the act of removing the mold from the home or building.” In some cases, mold is only on the surface of non-porous or semi-porous material.
You can remove mold using a combination of cleaning techniques, but always keeping in mind that mold will release spores when agitated.
Sanitization
Sanitization is the reduction of airborne contaminants and surface mold that is less than 10 square feet. The goal is a dramatic reduction of airborne spore count.
Mold Zero Can Do All Three
Mold Zero can do all three. What we are known for is a non-toxic sanitization process, using a cold sterilant to sanitize the entire home.
We use our “Dry Fog” in combination with traditional mold remediation techniques.
This has made Mold Zero the first choice for families and Functional Medicine doctors.
At Mold Zero, we apply our same thoroughness to all aspects of the the process, whether, remediation, removal or sanitization.
Deciding which approach to use comes down to the square footage of the impacted area, the type of material impacted and what type of mold is present.
For example, toxic black mold would never be something you would just wipe down.
The Simple Answer to the Question
To simplify: Remediation is removing contaminated material and mold.
Mold removal is the removal of actual mold from surfaces, but not removing the material.
Sanitization is simply treating the home and the air. This would be only done when the problem is less than 10 square feet and is not a water type mold.
Sanitization is more to address the air quality and high spore count, when visible mold colonization is not present.
The Three Broad Categories of Mold:
There are three categories of mold: allergenic, pathogenic, and toxic.
Each of these categories causes their own health concerns, and their presence can pose a threat to you and your home or building.
1) Allergenic molds: The can cause hay fever type reactions, itchy eyes, runny noses, congestion and more.
This can come from even the most common molds, like Cladosporium, that have gotten into the air of your home.
2) Pathogenic molds: Molds like Aspergillus have been linked to more serious health issues, impacting the nervous system.
Studies have found a link Pathogenic Molds to Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s and even cancer.
3) Toxic molds: Toxic molds like Stachybotrys can destroy the immune system of even a healthy person if exposed for an extended period of time.
A simple answer is there aren’t any type of molds that you want in your home, but some molds are worse than others.
Normal Fungal Ecology
Because these microscopic mold spores are always in your home, it is next to impossible to completely remove all mold. But you can get it to a point of “normal fungal ecology”.
A professional mold inspector, using a certified laboratory can give you the data you need as to whether you are in a safe zone.
So, the purpose of mold remediation is not to completely remove all mold spores in your home. But more importantly, to get it back to a healthy level for you and your family.
Fortunately, it is possible to get mold levels down to a harmless state that is safe for your health.
Mold Remediation Services
Mold often grows due to water damage or high humidity in your home.
A successful mold remediation process will tackle mold spores in every corner of your home—including airborne spores.
If you’re looking for mold remediation in Clearwater, Florida, Mold Zero can remedy the problem affordably and safely for you and your family.