Mold 101

The recent flooding that hit the greater St. Louis area left many homes and businesses with severe water damage.

Many of these home and business owners either attempted the water removal and drying out process themselves, or did not have a reputable company take care of the water damage, resulting in poor quality of work. These circumstances often lead to mold growth, which can be a huge pain to deal with. Removal isn’t necessarily easy, and the medical issues mold can cause are certainly not something you want to deal with.

Mold can remain dormant for months, even years, without being noticed. With the right conditions, mold growth can be rapid and can cause serious health concerns. To ensure your complete safety and elimination of mold at the growth source, Woodard utilizes high-tech, infrared cameras, and moisture meters throughout every phase of the assessment and inspection process. This equipment can detect conditions that are prime for mold growth.

If mold in your home or building is found during the assessment process, an Industrial Hygienist (IH) will conduct testing and write remediation protocols. However, Woodard is available to review and discuss all available options with you.

While every situation is unique, a typical mold remediation process includes identification of affected and suspect areas of mold contamination, identification and correction of moisture sources, and testing of air and surface areas. We follow up by the issuance of an analytical report and protocols, which are reviewed and discussed by Woodard. Woodard establishes containment areas at the start of remediation by generating negative air pressure, which ensures that no spores escape the work area. Then, we utilize HEPA air scrubbers within the containment area to capture mold spores, guarding against cross-contamination.

Mold FAQs:

What is mold?

Mold is a fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors.

Does my insurance cover mold?

Most insurance policies exclude coverage of damage caused by mold.

What are the common types of mold that are found in homes?

There are three types of mold that frequently show up in homes. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. The most common types include aspergillus, cladosporium, and stachybotrys chartarum (commonly known as black mold).

What causes mold?

Mold is caused by spores in the air that enter your home. Mold spores enter your home through windows, doors, or can be carried in on your clothing. Even if you keep your home spotless, mold spores are everywhere – it’s a part of nature. The key is preventing the spore from growing into mold.

How does mold grow?

Mold feeds on a wide variety of organic material. Most importantly, mold thrives on moisture and areas of high humidity!

Mold can cause serious harm to your home or business. For any mold remediation needs, submit a form online or call us at (314) 227-3932.

About Woodard Cleaning & Restoration

Woodard Cleaning & Restoration was founded in 1946 by Earl and Nancy Woodard. Located in St. Louis, Missouri, Woodard services the greater metro area (Illinois, St. Charles County, Jefferson County, St. Louis County, and many more). Woodard is proud to serve as the preferred provider for cleaning & restoration services. Our cleaning services include carpet, hard surface, furniture, and rug cleaning for both residential and commercial properties. We also provide water, fire, board-up, storm and smoke restoration services for residential and commercial clients. For information or questions submit a form online or call us at (314) 227-3932.

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Updated 10/15/2015