Dealing with mold in your Allentown home?
Building occupants face serious health risks from mold which affects almost half of U.S. buildings beyond being merely unsightly. Mold grows throughout the year in Pennsylvania’s damp climate within basements and bathrooms as well as hidden areas.
Homeowners frequently use DIY techniques to hide mold problems only for them to resurface later. Professional mold removal in Allentown is essential for completely eradicating mold and preventing its return.
This article explores the essential reasons why professional mold remediation protects your health while maintaining property value and ensuring peace of mind.
What’s Coming Up:
- Why Mold Is a Serious Problem in Allentown Homes
- Health Risks Associated With Mold Exposure
- DIY vs. Professional Mold Removal
- The Professional Mold Remediation Process
- Cost Factors in Professional Mold Removal
- Choosing the Right Mold Removal Company in Allentown
- Preventing Future Mold Growth
Why Mold Is a Serious Problem in Allentown Homes
Allentown’s environmental conditions serve as ideal conditions for mold development. Homes stay closed-sealed during cold winters and humid summers causing moisture to accumulate inside living areas.
Common mold hotspots in Allentown homes include:
- Basements and crawl spaces
- Bathrooms and kitchens
- Around windows and doors
- Behind walls where pipes may leak
- HVAC systems
The global mold remediation service market reached a valuation of USD 1.23 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.1% between 2024 and 2030. The expanding market for mold remediation services demonstrates greater public recognition of health and property risks related to mold.
Almost half of all buildings in the United States suffer from mold problems. The widespread presence of mold is a major factor in developing allergies and respiratory problems.
That’s nearly half of all buildings!
Allentown homes also share this mold statistic. Our region’s above-average humidity levels make our homes more prone to problems.
Health Risks Associated With Mold Exposure
Think mold is just a cosmetic issue? Think again.
More than one fifth of asthma cases in the United States stem from mold exposure. Studies indicate that symptoms can improve by 25% to 45% when dampness levels are reduced.
People who encounter mold may develop several health problems including respiratory issues and allergic reactions.
- Respiratory problems including coughing and wheezing
- Allergic reactions from mold exposure include sneezing and skin rash.
- Headaches and fatigue
- Sinus infections and congestion
Children and elderly people along with immunocompromised individuals face more severe health risks from mold exposure.
The bottom line? Incomplete mold removal methods pose too great a risk to protect your family’s health.
DIY vs. Professional Mold Removal
Have you seen mold growing in your bathroom or basement? At first glance you might want to reach for bleach to scrub away the mold.
Here’s why that’s a problem…
DIY mold removal solutions typically eliminate only the visible fungus but fail to tackle the underlying problems that produce it. If you pluck a weed without removing its roots, it will return stronger than before.
Why DIY methods fall short:
- Store-bought cleaners only address surface mold
- Not using proper containment methods can result in mold spores spreading throughout your home.
- DIY solutions fail to detect and resolve the fundamental moisture issue causing mold growth.
- The majority of homeowners do not possess the necessary equipment to detect mold concealed behind walls or beneath floors.
Skilled mold remediation teams employ industry-standard protocols and specialized tools to eliminate mold and determine the moisture source behind it.
The resale value of homes in the United States can fall by more than $99,000 due to mold-related problems. The DIY approach now appears to be much more costly than expected, right?
The Professional Mold Remediation Process
Professional mold removal services in Allentown deliver a complete solution which ensures mold eradication throughout your property.
The professional mold remediation process usually consists of these essential steps:
- Thorough inspection and assessment
- Visual examination of affected areas
- Moisture mapping to identify problem sources
- Professionals collect air and surface samples to determine the mold species present.
- Containment of affected areas
- The mold remediation process controls affected areas by establishing physical barriers along with negative air pressure systems.
- HEPA air filtration to prevent spore spread
- Protection of uncontaminated areas
- Mold removal and cleaning
- Discard all materials that have become mold-infested beyond restoration.
- Specialized cleaning of salvageable materials
- HEPA vacuuming of all surfaces
- Moisture problem resolution
- Locate and repair areas where water intrusion occurs.
- Addressing condensation or humidity problems
- Ensuring proper ventilation
- Verification and testing
- Post-remediation verification of mold removal
- Air quality testing to confirm safe levels
The systematic approach delivers complete mold resolution without merely providing a temporary solution.
Cost Factors in Professional Mold Removal
“How much will professional mold removal cost?” You probably first think about the cost when seeking professional mold removal.
The price of mold remediation services depends on various different elements.
Factors affecting mold remediation costs:
- The severity level of mold growth determines how extensive the remediation needs to be.
- Location and accessibility of the mold
- Type of mold present
- Required containment and removal methods
- Necessary repairs to affected areas
Simple mold cleanup efforts start at around $500 for minimal infestations but larger-scale mold issues require several thousand dollars for thorough remediation.
But here’s what you need to consider…
The financial consequences of improper mold treatment will result in much greater expenses. The financial implications extend beyond the previously stated $99,000 potential decrease in home value.
- Increased healthcare costs from mold-related illnesses
- The cost of repairs for your home rises as mold continues to cause additional damage.
- Remediation expenses will increase when addressing the mold problem becomes unavoidable.
Recent years have shown a notable spike in searches for mold removal services due to growing awareness and demand for mold remediation.
Choosing the Right Mold Removal Company in Allentown
Mold remediation companies differ in the quality of service they provide. During the selection process of a mold removal provider in Allentown ensure these essential qualifications are present.
Essential qualifications for selecting a mold remediation company include:
- Mold remediation companies should have the proper training and credentials which includes IICRC certification.
- Comprehensive insurance coverage
- Detailed assessment and remediation plans
- Clear, written estimates
- Ask for client testimonials from previous mold remediation work in the Allentown location.
- Guarantee or warranty on their work
Top-tier companies provide third-party verification testing after mold remediation to ensure the mold removal process was effective. An independent confirmation ensures you can feel secure knowing your home is now safe.
Don’t just choose the cheapest option available. Quality and thoroughness take precedence over cost savings when you want to protect both your family’s health and your home’s value.
Preventing Future Mold Growth After Remediation
Professional mold removal represents only one part of the overall solution. Preventing future mold growth is equally important.
Effective mold prevention strategies include:
- Controlling indoor humidity (ideally between 30-50%)
- Properly ventilating bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas
- Promptly repairing any leaks or water intrusion
- Using mold-resistant products in high-risk areas
- Regular home maintenance and inspections
- Using dehumidifiers in basements and crawl spaces
Following professional mold remediation services, request specific advice from your provider that addresses your home’s construction features and remediation findings.
Allentown homeowners gain advantages from seasonal maintenance plans which provide consistent inspections to detect initial moisture problems that might cause mold development.
Remember: It costs less to prevent mold than to remove it.
Wrapping It All Up
The process of removing mold in Allentown remains manageable with the proper approach. Professional assistance enables you to return your home to a healthy and safe condition.
Protect your family and property from further mold damage by taking immediate action. Investing in professional remediation safeguards your home’s future.
Start your mold mitigation journey today by reaching out to a certified mold remediation expert for an evaluation.