by JAZMIN PELAYO, The Contents Company
Mold can be seen as an elusive or even feared substance. So, to better understand how to identify and remediate it, we need to know what mold is and its effects on contents. What Causes Mold? Mold growth is primarily caused by moisture and organic materials.
Common factors include:
1. High Humidity: Environments with a humidity level above 60% are conducive to mold growth.
2. Water Leaks: In buildings, leaks from roofs, windows, or plumbing can create the perfect conditions for mold. During long-distance moves, wooden crates that are not properly closed and/or exposed to the elements can cause organic growth which can transfer to the contents.
3. Poor Ventilation: Inadequate airflow can trap moisture, promoting mold growth. What are Contents? Contents refer to the various items and belongings within a residential/ commercial property. These items encompass a wide range of personal possessions, furniture, and appliances that contribute to the functionality and comfort of a home. Examples include chairs, tables, TVs, computers, pots, pans, rugs, artwork, pillows, bed sheets, hand tools, clothing, and personal documents.
Typical Home Contents Susceptible to Mold In a home setting, the following contents are particularly susceptible to mold:
Furniture: Especially upholstered items that can trap moisture.
Carpets/Rugs: These can hold moisture and organic debris, providing an ideal environment for mold.
Books/Papers: Paper is highly susceptible to mold growth in humid conditions.
Clothing/Fabrics: These can absorb moisture and are often stored in areas with poor ventilation.
Wooden Items: Includes furniture and structural components like beams and floors.
Mold Remediation on Contents Following IICRC Standards The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) provides guidelines for mold remediation to ensure safe and effective removal:
1. Assessment and Inspection: Identifying the extent of mold contamination and the source of moisture.
2. Containment: Isolating affected areas to prevent mold spores from spreading.
3. Air Filtration: Using air scrubbers and HEPA filters to remove airborne mold spores.
4. Cleaning and Remediation: Cleaning non-porous items with appropriate disinfectants. Porous items, like fabrics and paper, might be more challenging and require specialized cleaning.
5. Drying: Ensuring all items and affected areas are thoroughly dried to prevent future mold growth.
6. Restoration: Repairing or replacing damaged items and structures.
Contents That Can Be Remediated After Mold
Exposure After mold exposure, many items can be cleaned and remediated, depending on the extent of the contamination and the material of the item.
Here is a list of contents that can often be remediated after mold exposure:
1. Metal items: Utensils, décor and tools, pots and pans
2. Glass items: Mirrors, glassware and decor
3. Ceramic items: Dishes, vases, and pottery
4. Plastics: Storage containers
5. Clothing and Textiles: Depending on the severity of the mold or mold exposure most textiles can be remediated.
Semi-porous items, soft/porous items, electronics and appliances may be cleaned is the mold damage is minimal. It’s important to note that some items, especially highly porous or sentimental items, may not be fully remediable and could pose health risks if not thoroughly cleaned. In such cases, it might be safer to dispose of them to prevent future mold growth and health issues.
Total Loss Contents Due to Mold
Despite best efforts, some items may be deemed total losses due to mold contamination. These include:
Books and Papers: Severely mold-damaged books and important paperwork may be irreparable.
Wooden Furniture: Items that have absorbed significant moisture and developed extensive mold growth.
Electronics: Due to the complexity of most electronics, they may be considered unrestorable.
Rugs and Padding: In cases of severe contamination, these may need to be replaced as cleaning might not be sufficient. Understanding mold and its remediation is crucial for maintaining a healthy home environment. By adhering to established standards, those affected can properly address mold issues and minimize health risks and property damage.
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