Indoor mold is believed to impact the health of those exposed. This is especially true for the young, old, and those with preexisting health conditions.

Contact Rainbow Restoration for a mold evaluation if you or your family are experiencing persistent symptoms that correlate with a possible mold situation, including:

• Allergic reactions
• Asthma attacks or an increase in symptoms
• Breathing difficulties (scratchy throat, phlegm, or raspy breathing)
• Eye, nose, or throat burning and irritation
• Cold symptoms or a persistent cough
• Skin irritation or rashes

If the mold is contained to a portion of the home, it may be okay to remain in the house during the abatement process. However, families with young children, individuals with respiratory issues, and the immunocompromised are often encouraged to leave the property until the remediation is complete.

The cost of mold remediation will vary based on the condition or severity of the infestation, the size of the affected area, and more. Contact your local Rainbow Restoration for an in-person estimate.

Mold is quick to take hold in your home. Just two or three days after a water damaging event, mold growth may be present.

To reduce the likelihood of growth, make a goal to have water removed and surfaces dried within 48 hours. Engage a water damage restoration specialist, like your local Rainbow Restoration, to assist you in drying your home.

If you've just discovered mold or suspect it is hiding in your home — under a floor, above a ceiling, or behind a wall — engage a professional to inspect your space.

Steps to take as soon as you detect mold:

• Keep in mind that cleaning with bleach and water, or other household disinfectants, will not kill mold. Try to keep yourself, children, pets, and others out of the affected area. Attempting to dry the area with a fan might disturb the spores and spread them to a new area.
• If the problem is contained to a room with a door, keep the door closed.
• Call a locally based professional mold removal service such as Rainbow Restoration.
• Consider notifying your insurance company. Many homeowner's insurance policies cover mold services. These policies often require that property owners report issues “as soon as reasonably possible.”
• Review our flood damage checklist for more information about recovering from water damage.

In cases where moisture has caused structural rot or the material cannot be fully dried, it is necessary to tear out moldy areas and repair or reconstruct.

The first step in any mold abatement process is a thorough inspection. During the inspection, we'll map out our approach to remediation.

Our approach may vary based on:

• the cause of the mold
• the scope of the problem
• the type and condition of the surfaces affected

Building materials and personal belongings in your home may be affected. Since mold is a living organism and deeply ingrains itself into materials to survive, it is best to dispose of anything porous. Nonporous materials can be cleaned with antimicrobial cleaners, and sealants may be used to make treated areas more resistant to water and mold.