Mold Removal & Remediation in Matawan, NJ

How We Fight Mold Spores – The Mold Remediation Process

Mold removal means removing mold spores from surfaces and the air. Follow along as we walk you through our professional mold remediation procedures. The mold remediation process begins with a comprehensive mold inspection and mold testing. These processes determine the type of mold and the extent of the mold infestation. To remove mold correctly, we take the following steps:

1. Stop the Spread

The first step is to set up a containment area around the structure to prevent the spread of mold. This means we will set up containment using plastic sheeting to block doorways or other openings that might contribute to cross-contamination with the rest of the building. We also block the return air ducts so the air from the contaminated room is not pushed through the rest of the house through the HVAC system.

2. “Clean” the Air

An air scrubber is a machine that cleans the air by drawing in particles (much like a vacuum), trapping them in its HEPA filters, and exhausting clean air. A mold removal job should always include this equipment to capture airborne mold spores. Air scrubbers create negative air pressure inside a structure, which limits the movement of mold to the rest of the building.

3. Throw it Out!

We remove damaged structural items that cannot be cleaned. This can include things like wet, moldy sheetrock/drywall, paneling or moldy carpeting.

4. Clean Surfaces

Using a hydrogen peroxide-based antimicrobial solution, we clean and sanitize all affected surfaces.

5. HEPA Vacuum Affected Surfaces

We use a specialized High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) vacuum to remove mold from all affected surfaces. The vacuum contains a special filter to trap all vacuumed spores and doesn’t release them back into the air like a traditional vacuum cleaner would.

6. Encapsulate Impacted Areas (Optional)

If needed, we apply an encapsulant, a special bright white or clear coating, that seals surfaces. This is a preventative coating that protects areas such as attic framing or basement cinderblock walls which aids in the prevention of mold growth. It is important to keep excessive moisture in these areas to truly prevent mold.

Common Questions About Mold Removal

PuroClean Restoration Services has real estate agents, property managers, and commercial building owners calling us daily and asking questions about mold. To make it easy for you, we wanted to share the FAQ list on mold removal, including insights on mold remediation costs.

Understanding the factors that influence mold remediation costs is crucial, as they can vary significantly based on the size of the affected area and the type of mold present. Average costs per square foot can differ, and additional cost considerations may apply depending on the complexity of the remediation process.

“Can I Clean Up Mold Myself?”

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that homeowners can usually clean up a small amount of mold damage themselves, which is usually under 10 square feet. 

Here are some tips:

• Fix all plumbing leaks, water issues, and humidity levels—otherwise, most mold will return.
• Wear proper PPE (personal protective equipment) like nitrile gloves, N95 mask and eye protection.
• Use an antimicrobial solution and scrub with a stiff bristle brush to get into porous surfaces. You can use a cloth with an antimicrobial solution on sheetrock to clean the moldy surfaces. Contrary to popular belief, bleach does not kill mold. You must use a product labeled as an antimicrobial or fungicide.
• Make sure to dry the surface thoroughly as mold likes moisture. You may use fans only after the cleaning process and run a dehumidifier if you own one.

“Should I Test for Mold?”

The EPA says, “In most cases if visible mold growth is present, sampling is unnecessary. Since no EPA or other federal limits have been set for mold or mold spores, sampling cannot be used to check a building’s compliance with federal mold standards.” Refer to their Guide to Mold Growth for more information.

“What About Air Testing”

If you’d like to know the severity of the mold issue in your home, you could get an air test.

Mold removal in your home or commercial space can be complicated, so we recommend you have clearance testing to ensure that your office or home environment has normal and acceptable levels.

Clearance testing involves collecting an air sample from the area of concern and the outside air (the control sample) and analyzing all samples for mold spore counts by an accredited laboratory. If the levels are acceptable and lower than those in the outside sample, then the mold remediation was successful. 

“Do you Remove Black Mold?”

As everyone is different and has allergic reactions to different types of molds, it is important to have good indoor air quality no matter what type of mold is present. We remove many types of mold, including the infamous black mold (Stachybotrys Chartarum) and other mold species like Aspergillus and Penicillium.

Since black mold spores produce toxins and can cause respiratory and other health issues, proper black mold removal is critical. We also clean up mold spores that are green, pink, yellow and white mold in color.

“How Much Does Mold Removal Cost?”

That depends on the structure’s condition. Some mold remediation jobs cost as little as $500, while others are over $10,000.

“Can I get a Mold Cleanup Quote Over the Phone?”

We do not provide quotes over the phone. To ensure a more accurate quote, it’s PuroClean’s policy is to visit residential or commercial buildings to inspect the premises visually. Each customer’s experience is unique. We would be happy to come out and inspect the premises and, if necessary, test for mold.

“Is Mold Damage Covered by My Insurance?”

All insurance policies differ. Contact your insurance company or agent to find out if mold remediation is covered in your policy and if the coverage is limited. 

“What Causes Mold Growth? Why Do I Have Mold?”

Mold needs three things to grow: water or moisture, an organic food source (wood, paper on sheetrock, dirt or soap scum) and a temperature usually between 68 to 86 degrees. Every structure has two of the three things, but if you can control the water, moisture, and humidity, you can prevent mold from growing.

“What About My Bathroom. How Do I Prevent Mold Problems?”

Bathrooms are ideal for mold to grow because of their high humidity and moisture levels. To prevent mold from growing in the bathroom, run your bathroom exhaust fan when showering and let the fan run for at least 20 minutes following a shower.

Clean the shower and tub regularly with a tub and tile cleaner to remove soap scum and dirt. Check on the caulking around the tub surround and make sure it is adhering correctly to the tile or tub. Dirt may get into the gap between the tile and the tub, allowing mold to grow. Remove the old caulk and replace it with new caulking to prevent this. 

Professional Mold Remediation

If you see signs of mold growth, contact PuroClean of Matawan. We can help! We also specialize in cleaning and sanitization, including mold odor removal, to restore your home or business to its original condition.

What our Customers are Saying:

“Very experienced, absolutely recommend to other customers. Trustworthy, everytime I had a question, he always picked up the phone and answered them.”

Anna & Thomas R., Insurance Customers of Matawan, NJ

“They were very hardworking people and knowledgeable and compassionate.”

Bahira S., Insurance Customer of Monroe, NJ

“The highest service one can expect! Helpful, reliable, organized and trustworthy,”

Nina Z., Travelers Insurance Customer of Brick