Mold remediation in Sacramento, CA

What causes mold after water damage?

Mold grows on organic materials such as drywall paper, wood and carpet when they stay wet. The EPA’s guide says the key to mold control is moisture control, and that mold should be cleaned promptly while the water problem is fixed. Prompt extraction and structural drying are the best prevention. Mold removal only works if the moisture problem is fixed first, which is why mold after water damage so often returns when a wet wall or subfloor is cleaned but not dried.

When can I handle it myself?

The EPA says that if the moldy area is less than about 10 square feet, in most cases you can handle the job yourself following its guidelines. If water damage is extensive or mold covers more than about 10 square feet, consult the EPA’s remediation guidance and consider a professional. If mold may be in hidden spaces, or if anyone has respiratory conditions, call a professional.

What does professional remediation include?

Typically: finding and stopping the moisture source, containing the work area, removing affected porous materials, cleaning surfaces, drying the structure and verifying moisture levels. The California Department of Insurance warns that attempting to clean mold from a long-term leak may spread spores; ask your insurer how it handles mold from covered water losses.

Do I need mold testing?

Testing is not always necessary. If you can see or smell mold, treat it as a problem and fix the moisture. The California Department of Insurance advises that mold testing and remediation questions be discussed with your claims representative.

Mold follows moisture, so drying comes first. Read when mold starts after water damage and how long structural drying takes. For offices and rentals, see commercial mold remediation.

Mold remediation: common questions