The fourth step to proper mold remediation in Maine or any other state involves cleaning of the work space and any surrounding areas that may have been previously contaminated by mold spores or growth. When we talk “cleaning” in mold remediation, we are not talking about normal cleaning. We are talking about a hygienic cleaning which involves HEPA vacuuming, thorough damp wiping of surfaces, and removal of particulates from the air and surfaces. This cleaning is not necessarily intended to polish or make things look pretty. It is intended to remove dust, debris, mold growth and spores. Typically ALL surfaces must be cleaned including ceilings, walls, fixtures, exposed framing, contents (including underneath), and floors.
Clearing Mold Spore Contamination
It is imperative to utilize HEPA filtered vacuums when cleaning as well as good cleaning agents to ensure thorough removal of mold growth and embedded spores. All surfaces cleaned should be HEPA vacuumed twice and damp wiped twice during the mold removal process. When cleaning tough surfaces such as tongue and groove pine or rough cut lumber, it is critical to clean inside crevices, cracks and other difficult to reach areas to remove growth properly. Often times furnishings such as tables, chairs, armoirs and bureaus will collect dust over time, especially on the undersides, legs and backside. If humidity levels are high in an area, mold will grow on this dust very quickly and it can be very taxing to properly clean. Cleaning will require high powered LED flashlights to illuminate the mold growth as cleaning is being performed. Furnishings will need to be turned over to clean all surfaces, and mirofiber cloths are the best tool for cleaning combined with a good mild detergent. Once an item is cleaned it is important to re-inspect it to verify cleaning efficacy. It is far more time consuming than you may imagine to complete this type of cleaning!
Equally important is to utilize air scrubbers to clean and condition the air while surfaces are being cleaned. Otherwise mold spores due to their microscopic size and tendency to float through air columns will travel to other areas and settle out again as dust. Thorough hygienic cleaning is one of the most important and most frequently overlooked steps in the mold remediation process. If this step is not properly executed than remediation efforts will fail which means wasted money out of your pocket and continued mold problems in your home or business.
Contact Us Today and Leave the Cleaning and Restoration Work to the Pros!
Specialized cleaning along with fire, mold and water damage remediation are best left to the professionals. Contact Octagon Cleaning and Restoration today for a FREE estimate or for more information about our services.