Common Mold Remediation Terms to Know

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Anywhere at any time, a mold colony can take hold. Because these colonies can spread and grow so quickly, to prevent property damage, you must act quickly. It's best to work with a company that specializes in professional mold remediation. In an efficient, quick, and safe manner, they can return your property to normal.

When you're working with a company that specializes in mold remediation, it can be confusing to hear them speak in terms common to the profession. To help you better understand what's going on, we've included some of the most commonly used terms and brief, simplified definitions.

Spores

Emitted from fungi, spores are reproductive, microscopic structures.

Remediation

The process of a remediation of a site includes assessment, containment, removal, and treatment of mold, fire damage, water damage, etc.

PPE

Technicians wear this type of gear during the process of remediation, specified by OSHA. The letters stand for personal protective equipment.

Porous

In porous materials, mold spores are easily absorbed and can flow because these materials allow easy air passage.

Mycotoxin

Designated as toxic to humans and produced by fungi, mycotoxins are specific compounds.

 MVOCs

Released into the air as a musty, moldy odor, and produced by mold colonies, these are chemicals. They are referred to as microbial volatile organic compounds.

Moisture Content

This is exactly what it sounds like, it refers to the content of moisture within a material. Before mold growth occurs, a greater moisture content can be sustained by various materials, i.e. wood, textiles, paneling, insulation, etc.

Microbe

Unseeable by the naked eye, a microorganism that is a type of bacteria and fungi can be referred to as a microbe.

HEPA

Used for removing particles greater than .03 micrometers by about 99.97%, this refers to an air filter technically named high efficiency particulate absorbing (HEPA) filter.

Fungi

This is a somewhat all-inclusive term. Sub classes include puff balls, yeasts, mushrooms, and molds.

Containment and Containment Barrier

To close off an infestation, seals and barriers are put in place. To control airborne spore movement, filtration devices are used. This is all in an effort of containment.

Colony

Viewable by the naked eye, a surface cluster of mold that has spread is referred to as a colony.

Antimicrobial

To combat mold and fungi, a chemical agent is used. To suppress microorganisms, an antimicrobial agent is used on direct contact.

Air Scrubber

To remove mold particulate matter from the atmosphere, this mold abatement process/device is used. Through a series of filters, air is sucked in using a high-powered fan and filtration device. A HEPA filter is included.

Air Sampling

Exactly what it sounds like, samples of the ambient air are taken to test for mold and/or other contaminants.

Abatement

When, on a specific property, any source of mold is removed fully, the process is known as mold abatement.

Call SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City For Mold Remediation

Thanks to extensive education and experience, the SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City team knows all the ins and outs of mold, mildew, and more. When you need us, we stand ready, waiting for your call! Have you suddenly discovered a mold and/or mildew problem that needs immediate attention? We have 24-hour emergency service and are faster to any disaster than our competition.

In addition to mold and mildew inspection and remediation we provide cleaning services,  fire restoration services, residential services, and commercial services.

Call us at 201-656-0035 or contact us through our convenient online form.