Commercial Mold Removal Challenges

Commercial buildings, offices and warehouses are not immune from mold contamination. When mold spores are present in sufficient quantities, they can present a health hazard. Most people have heard of "black mold" and the health problems it can cause. Employees and customers can all be adversely affected by mold exposure.


Just because the mold is visible doesn't mean it's not harmful. Toxic mold syndrome, sometimes called sick building syndrome, can make people sick. Sick building syndrome in the workplace has become a legal liability to employers and a drain on employee productivity. Although no mold can be seen, felt or smelled, the building itself causes mold exposure symptoms. Often the contamination is spread from office to office and throughout the place via the building's ventilation system.

The problem is not just limited to commercial buildings. About twenty percent of the 80,000 public schools have a failure rating for indoor air quality testing!

To grow and thrive, mold spores need just four things - water, air, the right temperature, and food. Ceiling and wall leaks, structural damage, poor ventilation and improperly installed insulation can all help create conditions that can foster mold.

Only licensed and certified mold removal companies should remove the mold. The first step in commercial mold removal is to identify the source of the water or moisture. Once the source is identified and repaired, then the follow steps must be taken to properly remove the mold:

- Completely remove all traces of mold and dry out any water-damaged areas. Mold can hide behind drywall, wallpaper, above ceiling tiles, under carpets and pads, etc. If the source of the moisture is not taken care of, infestation can reoccur.

- Contain and remove any moldy building materials. Contaminated materials should be placed in sealed bags before they are removed from the premises. This keeps the mold spores from potentially spreading throughout the building.

- Protect the entire area. Anything that can stir up mold or mold spores should only be done while using protective gear. Work areas should also be sealed off with plastic to prevent further contamination.

- Bring in other professional support if there is structural damage or immediate health risks.

Due to limited budgets, structural problems are sometimes ignored or patched over. Delayed or insufficient building maintenance is essential to prevent mold problems before they start. Regular HVAC inspections and maintenance should be scheduled.

When managing office buildings, schools or other public buildings, you may need to decide whether to relocate the occupants while the work is being done. It is best to conduct the mold remediation project during times when the building is not occupied in order to limit disruption.