FIELD STEPS & PROCEDURE
Mold Inspection
A comprehensive mold assessment should include a visual inspection of the property and the use of moisture meters and sometimes a thermal imaging cameras. The goal of the inspection is to identify any mold problems, determine their source, and estimate the affected area.
Mold Testing (Optional)
Even if there is no visible mold present, it’s still possible that there could be a mold problem. Air and swab samples can be taken to determine the mold levels in the air. If visible mold is present on building material like drywall, you can typically skip this and go directly toward mold remediation.
Estimate & Work Authorization
This will include the price and terms for what constitutes a completed job. Once the client and Eastern sign the contract, a start date is set.
Gear
Our technicians start by wearing respirators and gloves during work. In some cases, a full face masks and coveralls are necessary. These safety precautions are especially necessary because our technicians work in these conditions on a regular basis.
Containment
If work is not being performed throughout the entire property, a temporary containment area will be established during demolition to prevent mold spores from spreading beyond a designated area.
Demolition
During Demolition, porous building materials like drywall and carpet that are infested with mold must be removed and discarded. Technicians typically remove 12-24 inches beyond any visible mold or whatever amount would make for an easy rebuild.
Treatment
Air scrubbers are used to filter out excess mold spores. If building materials like framing are still wet, dehumidifiers and fans may also be used. In some cases, hydroxyl generators may be implemented after demolition and cleaning.
Antimicrobial Cleaning
Antimicrobial Cleaning involves treating building materials like framing that cannot be removed with antimicrobial agents to kill all mold colonies and staining. All non-porous surfaces within the containment area, such as tile and marble, are wiped down to remove any mold spores that may have settled from being around elevated conditions. Additionally, all areas are HEPA vacuumed before and after cleaning.
Rebuild & Final Clearance
Rebuild & Final Clearance involves replacing removed areas and leaving the containment area and air scrubbers in place for 48-72 hours to filter out any remaining excess mold spores. We then retake air and possibly swab samples to ensure the remediation was successful.