Mold growth in the home can be a serious issue that requires professional remediation. Finding the best mold removal company for the job is crucial to ensure the mold is properly removed and your family’s health is protected. With so many companies to choose from, it can be overwhelming trying to determine which is truly the best for your unique situation. This comprehensive guide provides key factors to look for when researching mold remediation companies, as well as an overview of the top-rated providers in the industry.
What to Look for in a Mold Removal Company
Choosing the right mold removal company takes careful consideration of several important factors. Be sure to research each provider thoroughly to find the best fit for your needs.
Experience and Training
First, you’ll want to select a company with extensive experience specifically in mold remediation. Look for providers that have been in business for several years and have handled numerous mold removal projects during that time.
In addition to experience, proper training is a must. There are certain established guidelines and standards in the mold remediation industry. Make sure the technicians are fully trained and certified in trusted mold removal techniques. Certifications from organizations like the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) are a good sign.
Use of Safe, Effective Products & Methods
The best mold removal companies will use safe, non-toxic products and proven methods to get rid of mold without posing risks to you or your family. They should take steps like containing the work area to prevent spores from spreading.
Ask about their mold killing solutions, containment protocols, HEPA vacuuming, protective gear for technicians, and more. They should follow established standards and guidelines for effective mold remediation.
Detailed Inspection & Testing
A thorough inspection and testing process is a key service the best mold removal companies will provide. They’ll assess the full scope of the issue including the type and extent of the mold growth.
Testing of air quality and mold spore counts before and after remediation is also important. This helps ensure all mold is accounted for and removed fully.
Guarantees
Choose a company that stands behind their work with satisfaction guarantees. Many reputable mold removal providers will guarantee their services for a certain period of time.
This shows they are confident their trained technicians can fully and safely rid your home of mold. It also ensures you’ll have recourse if the mold returns.
Insurance/Licensing
It’s critical to verify the company has proper licensing for mold remediation in your state. Liability insurance and coverage for potential property damage during the process is also essential.
This protects you in the unlikely event something goes wrong. Reputable providers will have all appropriate insurance and state licensing documentation.
Reviews & Reputation
Of course, reviews from past clients can provide great insight into a company’s quality of work and customer service. Search for reviews on multiple online platforms to get the best sense of their reputation. Also ask for references you can contact directly.
Positive reviews and strong reputations among local homeowners are good signs you’re selecting a trusted mold removal provider.
By keeping all these factors in mind during your search process, you can zero in on the best company for your specific needs. Once you’ve selected a provider using these criteria, you can rest assured the mold will be properly remediated by trained technicians using proven methods.
Top Mold Removal Companies
With an overview of what makes a quality mold remediation company, let’s look at some of the top providers that excel in these areas. The following companies have stellar reputations, extensive experience, proper licensing and insurance, and employ mold removal best practices.
ServiceMaster Restore
As a trusted national brand, ServiceMaster Restore tops many lists of the leading mold remediation companies. They’ve been in the restoration business since 1929, bringing extensive experience across a wide range of services.
All ServiceMaster Restore technicians undergo specialized training to properly identify and treat mold growth in homes. They use medical-grade disinfectants, HEPA vacuuming, negative air machines, and additional methods to eliminate mold and prohibit spore spread.
The company is certified by the IICRC and is part of the Restoration Industry Association, demonstrating their strong training and adherence to established standards. They also provide guarantees on their work. With nearly 100 locations nationwide, ServiceMaster Restore has a wealth of experience tackling all scales of mold removal projects.
SERC Environmental
This company focuses solely on mold inspections and remediation, allowing them to become specialists in mold removal techniques. SERC Environmental serves residential and commercial clients across 16 states, bringing extensive industry experience.
Their highly-trained technicians use proven methods like HEPA vacuuming, air scrubbing, and antimicrobial applications to eliminate mold. SERC is certified by the IICRC and Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification.
They provide detailed project assessments, clear pricing, and guarantees on their work. Strong customer reviews praise their excellent communication and timely, effective mold removal services.
AdvantaClean
AdvantaClean is another leading provider with decades of experience in mold remediation and air duct cleaning services. Their technicians across the U.S. and Canada receive ongoing training in line with IICRC standards.
The company uses specialized products and containment procedures to eliminate mold safely. State-of-the-art testing also ensures all mold spores are fully removed.
AdvantaClean has an excellent reputation with customers based on their highly-trained technicians and quality work. They are a smart choice for mold inspections and remediation.
Belfor
Operating internationally, Belfor has provided residential and commercial property restoration since 1946. For mold removal specifically, they contain affected areas thoroughly to prevent spore spread during remediation.
Belfor uses medical-grade disinfectants, sanitizers, and other proven treatment solutions to get rid of mold. Their well-trained technicians adhere to established industry guidelines and standards. The company is part of industry groups like the IICRC that reinforce their strong expertise in mold removal.
Positive reviews showcase their professionalism, quality work, and excellent customer service.
Rainbow International
With over 20 years of experience, Rainbow International is another leading option for mold remediation services. Their extensively trained technicians use specialized equipment and proven techniques to safely remove mold from homes.
The company follows IICRC guidelines to contain affected areas, treat mold through techniques like HEPA vacuuming, and ensure thorough removal. Guarantees provide peace of mind in their services.
Strong customer reviews combined with their long track record in mold removal makes Rainbow International a trusted choice nationally.
Mold Removal Process
Now that you know what to look for in a mold remediation company and some top choices to consider, let’s overview the general mold removal process. This provides an idea of what to expect once you hire a professional company to tackle the mold in your home.
Inspection & Testing
The first step is a thorough inspection of the extent of the mold growth. A professional mold removal company will assess the types of mold present, the surfaces and materials impacted, and the full scope of the issue. Initial mold spore testing is also conducted to establish baseline levels.
Containment
Proper containment of the affected area is crucial to prevent mold spores from spreading during the removal process. The space will be sealed off with materials like plastic sheeting. Negative air machines filter and ventilate the air to further avoid spore spread.
Treatment
With containment in place, the actual mold treatment process begins. Technicians use PPE gear to protect themselves as they methodically clean and treat all moldy surfaces. This often involves scrubbing, HEPA vacuuming, and applying antimicrobial solutions. Air scrubbing equipment filters spores from the space as well.
Final Testing
Once remediation is complete, final testing of the air quality ensures mold spore levels are back to safe, normal ranges. Any remaining detectable mold requires additional treatment until full remediation is achieved.
Clean-up & Prevention Tips
The space is cleaned up by removing containment barriers and equipment. The technicians may also provide tips to prevent future mold growth, such as improving ventilation in problematic areas.
Following this full mold removal and remediation process ensures your home is restored to a fresh, mold-free environment.
Costs of Professional Mold Removal
The cost of hiring a professional mold removal company depends on several variables:
- Size of affected area – Larger areas with more widespread mold growth will cost more to remediate. Small, contained spaces are quicker and cheaper.
- Severely of the growth – Surface mold is simpler than deep-rooted growth in materials that requires replacement. Severe cases take longer and increase costs.
- Accessibility – Mold in difficult to reach spots like HVAC systems or behind walls ups the price due to additional containment barriers needed and more intensive remediation.
- Type of materials impacted – Porous surfaces like drywall are harder to fully restore versus non-porous materials. Replacement may be required which adds expenses.
- Additional structural repairs – Fixing leaky pipes, improving ventilation, replacing insulation, and other needs to prevent recurrence also add to the total costs.
While prices vary case-by-case, you can generally expect to spend $500 to $6,000 or more for professional mold remediation. Larger homes with extensive growth in difficult to access areas would land at the higher end. Small contained surface mold will be at the lower range.
Get itemized estimates from different mold removal companies to compare pricing for your unique situation. Quality of service trumps lowest cost when hiring the right provider.
DIY Mold Removal Methods
While the most thorough mold remediation requires hiring professionals, you can attempt some DIY removal in certain limited cases. If the mold growth is very minor and contained to non-porous surfaces like tile, plastic, glass, metal, etc., you may tackle it yourself.
Never attempt DIY mold removal if:
- Growth is severe or widespread
- You have health conditions like asthma or allergies
- Porous materials like drywall, wood, insulation, etc. are impacted
- You are unsure how to properly contain and remove mold
For small manageable cases, you can try these DIY steps:
- Wear protective gear – goggles, gloves, N95 respirator mask
- Seal space with plastic sheeting to avoid spore spread
- Scrub surfaces with detergent and warm water
- Use diluted bleach solution on hard, non-porous materials only
- HEPA vacuum area thoroughly once scrubbed
- Dry surfaces quickly with towels, fans, and dehumidifiers
- Discard any impacted porous materials you cannot thoroughly clean
- Check for and repair any moisture issues causing the mold
Again, this DIY approach is only suitable for minor isolated mold on non-porous surfaces. Anything more requires contacting professional mold remediators.
Health Risks of Mold Exposure
It’s crucial to take mold growth in your home seriously due to the potential health effects of mold exposure:
Allergic Reactions
Inhaling mold spores can cause allergy symptoms like itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing, skin irritation, and more in those with sensitivities. Severe allergic reactions are possible.
Respiratory Issues
Mold may worsen conditions like asthma, leading to wheezing, chest tightness, coughing, and shortness of breath. Pneumonia and other respiratory infections are also risks.
Immune System Problems
Toxins from certain mold varieties may impact immune system function, making you more prone to illnesses. Chronic exposure can severely weaken immunity over time.
Other Symptoms
Headaches, fatigue, memory issues, mood changes, nausea, and skin rashes are other common symptoms potentially tied to mold exposure. Prolonged exposure may lead to chronic, toxic mold illness.
Infants, children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems are most at risk for adverse effects. Don’t ignore a mold problem in your home. Contact a professional mold removal company promptly.
FAQs About Mold Removal
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding professional mold remediation services:
Does mold eventually go away on its own?
No, mold will continue growing and spreading if the moisture source is not eliminated. The problem will keep worsening over time. Professional mold removal is required.
Can I remove mold myself using bleach?
Bleach only kills surface mold temporarily. It does not fix the underlying moisture issue, so the mold will quickly return. Bleach can also react with mold to produce toxic gases. Rely on professionals for safe, effective mold treatment.
Will my homeowners insurance cover mold removal?
Most standard policies exclude mold. However, some cover mold as a result of a covered peril like pipe bursts. Contact your insurer, as your policy provisions will determine if mold remediation is covered.
Should I get multiple quotes for mold removal?
Yes, contacting 3-4 local mold remediation companies for quotes helps you compare pricing and services. Make sure to get quotes based on an on-site inspection rather than just photos.
What happens if some mold returns shortly after treatment?
Reputable companies provide warranties of 30 days up to a few years. If mold returns during the covered period, contact them to have the issue treated again at no additional cost.
Can mold behind walls be fully removed without tearing open the wall?
In some cases, companies use small access holes during remediation to treat mold behind walls rather than full removal. However, severe cases may require wall removal to properly eliminate all mold.
Conclusion
Mold should never be ignored, as it poses real risks to your family’s health and home. While small surface mold may sometimes be managed through careful DIY removal, reaching out to a professional mold remediation company is highly recommended in most situations.
They have the proven methods, specialized tools, rigorous training, and experience to fully eliminate mold and prevent recurrence. Taking time to research and select the right provider for your needs is an important step.
Companies that meet criteria like certifications, excellent reviews, guarantees, proper insurance, and extensive experience ensure you are in trusted hands. Restoring your home’s air quality, aesthetics, and safety requires mold removal experts you can count on. Don’t delay in contacting a top-rated provider to inspect your home and create a customized mold remediation plan.