Experiencing Mould Issues? Avoid these common mistakes
Whatever the cause of mould, it needs addressing properly to ensure that all traces are effectively removed. Mould spores are a type of fungi and therefore have roots which penetrate porous materials. To effectively remove mould, these roots need tackling, not just the surface mould which is usually visible as black, green, brown, yellow or pink patches. Improper treatment will see the mould appear to “grow back”.
However choosing a service provider can seem like the next uphill battle as a range of costs and explanations can be given on how best to treat the affected areas. Avoid some of the most common mistakes when choosing a mould remediation provider to service your property.
1: Choosing a provider who doesn’t talk about monitoring the moisture level
Excess moisture is the number one variable contributing factor for mould growth. So choosing a remediation company who does not monitor the moisture levels will be ineffective. While they may get rid of the current mould, it will only grow back unless the moisture levels are checked and adequately dealt with.
2: Choosing a provider who doesn’t ask about or investigate the cause
Tackling mould growth is pretty much pointless until the cause has been identified and addressed. Be wary of any company who only focuses on the actual mould issue itself and doesn’t question the cause.
3: Choosing a provider with no prior experience of mould
Not just any cleaning company is equipped to remediate mould growth. If handled in the wrong way, the mould remediation can either be completely ineffective or could actually the make issue worse by spreading the mould spores (and therefore growth) further throughout the property. Specialist knowledge and experience is essential.
4: Choosing a provider with no methodology
Like any service, you should know what you’re paying for before the work commences. Having a thoroughly explained methodology to tackle mould will help understand the process, manage expectations as well as explain what is involved in the process rather than being out of the loop.
5: Choosing a mould remediation provider based solely on cost
Mould remediation isn’t a simple task and therefore cheaper is not necessarily better. If you’re looking at the cheapest quotes, check what other services the provider provides as part of mould remediation. At the least, you should check to see if they offer a test of the air before and after to certify results and whether they offer any drying solutions to help reduce the moisture in the air to help prevent regrowth.
6: Choosing a provider without the necessary equipment
Mould remediation takes more than a cloth and bottle of bleach. Appropriate PPE (personal protective equipment), isolation equipment and HEPA rated vacuums are the very least that a mould remediation provider should carry. Without these, neither the technicians or the environment are protected from mould spores and the mould risks spreading to contaminant previously unaffected areas.
7: Choosing a company who doesn’t check mould levels after the remediation process
Any respectable mould remediation provider will test mould levels upon completion of the work. This can be done in a variety of ways including air sampling which will either be sent to a lab for results, or some providers have equipment which allows a reading and result to be taken there and then. The purpose of this is to ensure that the levels have dropped and are now within an acceptable and safe range.
Ideal Response are professional mould removal providers based in the UK, offering a complete solution to tackle all types of mould for domestic and commercial properties. Speak to our experts today via phone on 01622 926 505 or fill out our form below to get a free estimate.