Definition of Mold Remediation

Mold, although found in nature, can be potentially hazardous when found growing indoors.
Mold, although found in nature, can be potentially hazardous when found growing indoors. (Image: mossy wall image by Empath from

Mold remediation is a process in which mold is cleaned and removed from a building, either through professional or non-professional methods. Mold remediation is necessary in cases where significant growth is present in various possible areas of a building, including carpets, ceilings and drywall. Typically, mold remediation involves special chemicals and cleaners to remove existing mold and prevent future growth.

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Why Remediate?

Mold is a naturally occurring organism, vastly spread through most natural environments. When significant mold growth occurs in a home or public building, the healthy and safety of its inhabitants becomes a concern. Mold is linked to respiratory and allergy diseases, especially among infants and the elderly. Additionally, cases of mold can be widespread and unsightly, as well as damaging to the structure of a building.

Assessing Mold Damage

Before any remediation can begin, the mold damage must be assessed. In some cases, home occupants may continue to live in their house while the remediation takes place. In other cases, such as when large amounts of drywall or ceiling must be removed, occupants must relocate during remediation. Also, before remediation, the water source responsible for the mold growth must be found and mended.

Mold damage from water commonly occurs after a flood.
Mold damage from water commonly occurs after a flood. (Image: pattern on sheet rock image by Allen Penton from

Do It Yourself

In mild cases of mold, there are methods which a building owner can utilize to tackle mold remediation without calling in professionals. A simple method for mold remediation on hard surfaces is to clean with a bleach solution. Bleach should be used in a properly ventilated area, and mixed to a solution of one cup of bleach per gallon of water.

Professional Remediation

In cases of moderate to severe mold infestation, professional remediation may be the best option. The cost of mold remediation can typically range from $500 to $30,000. Specialists may be able to remove mold using special tools or methods such as a wet vacuum, damp wipe or HEPA vacuum. The case may be so severe, though, that all materials must be removed and replaced.

Personal Protective Equipment

Removing mold can be a potentially hazardous task. Disturbing mold releases thousands of mold spores into the air. A mask, such as an N-95 respiratory mask, should be worn at all times during mold remediation. Skin should also be protected from mold spores and chemicals with gloves. When choosing protective goggles, choose ones designed to seal the eye area from floating particles.


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