MOLD FAQ’S
Mold can be a serious issue, and many property owners have questions about how to handle it. At Merit Restorations, we’re here to provide clear answers and guidance to help you understand the mold remediation process.
1. Is black mold exposure dangerous to my health or my family’s health?
Exposure to toxic black mold can cause serious health issues, including respiratory distress, chronic allergies, and asthma. Vulnerable individuals like children and the elderly are at the highest risk. Professional mold mitigation is essential to stop the spread of these health hazards and restore your indoor air quality.
2. How can I tell if I have a hidden mold problem if I can’t see it?
While mold often appears as black, green, or white spots, it frequently grows behind walls, under flooring, or in areas with poor ventilation. Common signs include persistent musty odors, dampness, or health symptoms like coughing and sneezing. A professional mold inspectionusing thermal imaging and moisture mapping can confirm hidden growth.
3. What are the common causes that lead to the need for mold mitigation?
Mold requires moisture to thrive. Common causes include unresolved water damage, high humidity, or poor ventilation in basements and kitchens. Leaks, flooding, and condensation are the primary drivers. Addressing these moisture sources through mold mitigationis the first step to prevent a recurrence.
4. Can I remove mold myself, or do I need professional mold remediation?
Small surface spots on non-porous materials can sometimes be cleaned at home, but larger infestations require professional mold remediation. Our certified technicians use specialized containment, air scrubbers, and HEPA filtration to ensure all spores are removed without cross-contaminating the rest of your property.
5. Does insurance cover the cost of mold remediation and moisture repair?
Many insurance policies cover mold remediation if the growth resulted from a “covered peril,” such as a burst pipe or sudden water leak. Merit Restorations works directly with your provider, delivering the detailed damage documentation and moisture data required to assist with the claims process.
6. What steps can I take for mold prevention after the removal process?
Preventing mold recurrence depends on controlling moisture. This involves fixing plumbing leaks, improving attic ventilation, and using dehumidifiers to keep humidity below 50%. After remediation, we provide specific structural recommendations to ensure your property remains dry and mold-free.
7. How much does professional mold remediation typically cost?
The cost of mold remediation services depends on the size of the infestation and the extent of the damage to materials like drywall and flooring. We provide a comprehensive, itemized estimate after a thorough mold inspection, ensuring you have an accurate recovery plan for your budget.
8. Can mold spores spread through my home’s HVAC or air conditioning system?
Yes, if mold is present in your ductwork, your HVAC system can circulate spores throughout the entire building. During the remediation process, we inspect and clean your ventilation system to ensure the air being circulated is healthy and free of contaminants.
9. If I smell a musty odor but see no mold, do I need a mold inspection?
If you smell mold but cannot see it, a professional inspection is critical. Mold often grows in dark, damp voids like wall cavities or subfloors where it remains invisible while still posing a threat to your property’s integrity and your health. Moisture detection is the only way to find the source.
10. Are your mold technicians certified and licensed for Virginia and Texas?
Yes, our team is IICRC certified and adheres to the latest state-mandated licensing laws, including the 2024-2025 Virginia mold workforce standards. This ensures your mold remediation is performed by qualified professionals who follow strict industry safety protocols.
11. Do you provide reconstruction and repair after the mold is removed?
As a licensed General Contractor, we offer full-service repair construction and remodeling. Once the mold is safely removed, we restore your property to pre-loss condition by replacing drywall, flooring, and finishes, providing a seamless “cleanup to completion” experience.
12. Do you offer commercial mold mitigation for offices or retail spaces?
Absolutely. We specialize in commercial property restoration for businesses in Arlington, Chesapeake, and across our service areas. We provide rapid-response mold mitigation to minimize business downtime and ensure a safe environment for your employees and customers.
