If you notice mold growing in your home, it’s important to know what to do and how to prevent it from getting worse. Mold can grow in your walls, on your floors, and on your furniture. Furthermore, it can cause serious health problems if you aren’t careful. Removing mold takes time and some serious elbow grease — as well as special equipment — but the results are more than worth it. You just have to search online to find the best company for the job.
There is some important cost-related information to know about before hiring a mold removal company. Find out how much money to expect to spend with an online search.
What Is Mold Removal and Remediation?
Although mold removal and remediation may sound like the same thing, there is a distinct difference between the two services.
Mold removal refers to controlling or eliminating an existing mold problem. On the other hand, mold remediation refers to cleaning and repairing a structure after the mold has been removed. It also addresses problems that may have caused mold growth, such as a flood or water leak.
For example, let’s say you experience water damage from a burst pipe in your home. The first step would be mold removal, which involves removing all of the contaminated materials and replacing them with new ones. The second step would be mold remediation. This involves applying antifungal agents to prevent further growth of mold spores and sealing off any potential entry points for future leaks.
It’s important to note that some states require property owners to hire licensed professionals for certain jobs related to mold removal and remediation. If you’re not sure whether you need a professional’s help with these types of projects, it’s best to check with your local government agency before proceeding.
The Cost of Mold Removal
The best way to get rid of mold is to hire a mold removal company immediately. The longer you wait to get rid of it, the more time it’s given to grow and spread to other areas of the house. You just have to hire the right company to resolve the problem. But how much will this service cost?
According to HomeGuide, the average cost of mold removal is $2,325. However, the cost can range from $1,500 to $3,150 or $15 to $30 per square foot.
As for mold remediation, a small job will cost an average of $1,500. Larger areas can range from $3,000 to $6,000 and does not include repair work.
Another service you’ll likely have to pay for is mold inspection. On average, a visual mold inspection will cost about $195. A visual and sampling test will be more expensive at $350. The good news is that not every case of mold will need a sampling.
Keep in mind that insurance companies do not typically cover mold removal because it is considered preventable damage.
When to Call an Expert
While some homeowners might decide to tackle small mold infestations on their own, the best decision is to call an expert. There are some telltale signs that it’s time to get in touch with a mold removal specialist.
The first sign to call an expert is when there’s an unexplainable smell in the house. In some cases, you might be able to smell mold but not locate it. According to Restoration Master, the smell is musty, humid, and moist. If not addressed, odor from mold can lead to health problems such as dizziness or allergy symptoms.
Another reason to bring in a mold removal company is if the growth covers 10-square-feet or more. This amount, or even less, can be too much for a homeowner to tackle on their own.
Find Mold Removal Companies Online
Nobody wants to live in a moldy household. The good news is this common problem can be fixed with mold removal and remediation. By hiring a company, you lower the risk of mold returning or developing at a faster rate.
Finding mold removal companies online is a breeze. Simply search for mold remediation or mold removal companies in your area. From there, contact these companies with your questions regarding remediation and cost. Make sure to get plenty of estimates from different companies, as it will help decide which company best suits your needs.
