Mold removal in commercial buildings requires a high degree of skill and experience. Specialized training is often needed for schools, healthcare facilities, and other properties where contaminant-free air is a priority. Using the right equipment is also essential for effectively removing mold.
For all of these reasons, we recommend hiring a company that specializes in mold removal and remediation. Our knowledgeable professionals work with industrial hygienists to identify the mold species, then develop a plan for containing the area, addressing the contamination, and restoring your property.
ATI Restoration specializes in commercial mold remediation for a wide range of properties. We have 70+ locations nationwide, enabling us to provide a 24-Hour Emergency Response throughout the country. Contact the nearest ATI office for information on our solutions for mold removal in commercial buildings.
Why Mold Is a Problem in Commercial Buildings
Mold poses two significant problems for the owners and managers of commercial properties. The first is indoor air quality, which refers to how clean the air inside a structure is. The second is structural damage due to mold growth.
We examine these issues in greater detail below:
Mold and Indoor Air Quality
Mold reproduces by sending small spores into the air. Colonies can form when the spores land on damp surfaces or objects. In addition to moisture, mold needs food to grow. Mold can commonly be found growing on organic materials such as wood, paper, and cloth. It can also grow on synthetic materials like carpeting, insulation, drywall, and paint.
Indoor air quality suffers when mold spores are present in the air. The occupants of a mold-infested property may experience symptoms such as:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sinus congestion
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Eye irritation
- Rash on the skin
- Headaches
Anyone can experience these symptoms, even those who aren’t allergic to mold. People with a mold allergy, pre-existing conditions, or weakened immune systems tend to have worse symptoms.
Mold can also release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Some of these VOCs are characterized as mycotoxins, or toxins released by fungi and mold. Mycotoxins adversely impact indoor air quality and may make inhabitants sick.
Mold and Structural Damage
The presence of mold means there is moisture in the vicinity. Property owners often find mold in areas such as the bathroom, the kitchen, the basement, and/or the crawl space. These spaces are more prone to moisture buildup, and they often have limited ventilation—perfect conditions for mold to flourish.
Mold is often a sign of water damage to the property. Occupants may see visible patches of mold or notice a foul smell. These signs should be investigated as soon as possible, both to remove the mold and stop additional losses due to water damage.
In commercial properties, proactive inspection is the best way to catch mold and water damage before they become too severe. Areas that should be inspected regularly include:
- Under sinks and around bathtubs
- In bathtubs and showers
- Pipes and plumbing throughout the property
- HVAC systems
- Kitchens, including refrigeration systems, dishwashers, and under sinks
- Window seals
- Ceiling tiles
- Carpets and flooring
- Wallpaper
- Utility closets
- Crawl spaces, basements, and other low-lying areas
Water damage should be addressed as soon as possible by a professional restorer. If mold is present, it is critical to follow OSHA guidance. Mold that is less than 30 square feet in area may be remediated by building staff (provided they have proper training and personal protective equipment), while anything greater than 30 square feet should be left to experts in commercial mold removal.
Most Dangerous Types of Mold in Commercial Buildings
There are more than 100,000 species of mold. Some pose little to no threat to humans, while others represent a very real danger.
Mold is more than just unsightly and foul-smelling. Extensive mold contamination can damage structural components. Worse, it can compromise the health of tenants and employees, hurting your bottom line and potentially creating legal liability. For all of these reasons, mold removal in commercial buildings is a must.
The species of mold that pose the biggest risk to occupants of commercial properties include:
Stachybotrys
When people talk about “toxic black mold,” this is usually what they mean. Stachybotrys charatrum releases mycotoxins which can cause respiratory infections. Exposure to Stachybotrys is particularly dangerous for infants, who may suffer acute idiopathic pulmonary hemorrhage as a result.
Penicillium
Another mycotoxic mold, Penicillium exposure can cause sinus and respiratory issues. It is the mold that gives us the medical marvel penicillin, but having it inside your building is not healthy!
Cladosporium
Most species of Cladosporium aren’t hazardous to human health. However, people with mold sensitivities may experience an allergic reaction. Breathing in Cladosporium spores can also trigger asthma attacks.
Fusarium
Much of the literature on Fusarium focuses on its toxic effects on plants, but the spores can also enter residential and commercial properties. Fusarium is mycotoxigenic. In addition to respiratory problems, several species of Fusarium are linked to a serious eye infection known as fungal keratitis.
Aspergillus
One of the most common household molds, Aspergillus spores can trigger allergies and asthma. People with respiratory illnesses or weakened immune systems are at risk for a condition known as aspergillosis, which is characterized by a chronic cough, shortness of breath, and other symptoms.
Steps to Remove Mold from a Commercial Property
Professionals take a comprehensive approach to mold removal and remediation. This encompasses partnerships with industrial hygienists, who use specialized technology to test for mold and determine the species that is present. Remediation is handled by skilled crews who use personal protective equipment and approved techniques to remove mold, make repairs, and minimize additional contamination.
Here is a general overview of the steps involved in mold removal in commercial buildings:
The property is inspected for visible mold and signs of water damage. Mold testing is performed by outside consultants certified in mold inspection and industrial hygiene. A comprehensive inspection is key for estimating the cost of mold remediation.
Proper containment is vital for keeping mold spores to the affected area only. The protocols generally include sealing off the area with plastic sheeting, turning off the HVAC system to prevent the spread of airborne spores through the air ducts, and keeping the area under negative air pressure.
Negative air machines, air scrubbers, and HEPA filters provide additional protection from migrating mold spores. Dehumidification of mold-contaminated areas can remove excess moisture, making it more difficult for mold to grow.
All contents and materials contaminated with mold should be removed from the premises. Items that are particularly susceptible to mold growth include fabric and upholstery, carpets and rugs, insulation, drywall, and certain appliances.
Professional technicians may employ multiple methods for cleaning mold-affected areas, including wet vacuuming, damp wiping, and HEPA vacuuming. Once they are cleaned, surfaces and materials should be treated with chemicals and disinfecting agents. Air duct cleaning may be necessary if mold has gotten into the ventilation system.
The goal is to restore your property to its pre-loss condition, if not better. Repairs that may be needed after mold remediation include replacement of drywall, carpet repair or replacement, and replacing insulation. In cases of severe mold infestation, structural repairs may also be necessary.
Mold remediation is not totally complete until the results are verified. This generally involves a visual inspection to confirm that the mold has been removed, ensuring that all restoration and repairs are satisfactory, and air quality testing to confirm that the quantity of mold spores in the air falls within acceptable levels.
ATI: Your Choice for Mold Removal in Commercial Buildings
Water damage, mold contamination, and other issues need to be addressed right away to keep losses to a minimum and protect the building’s occupants and staff. It is highly beneficial for commercial properties to have a partnership in place with a reputable disaster recovery firm that can respond to emergencies without delay.
ATI Restoration offers businesses and other commercial clients an Emergency Response Agreement (ERA). The ERA guarantees priority response, emergency services, and upfront pricing. Emergency crews are dispatched to your property immediately, getting recovery efforts underway ASAP.
Contact ATI Restoration Today
Whether you suspect there is mold on your property or a recent mold test has come back positive, you need a company with the experience and resources to capably handle mold remediation. ATI Restoration has an in-depth understanding of different industries, enabling us to implement all necessary safety protocols and follow all procedures for mold removal in commercial buildings of all kinds.
Don’t wait to get mold out of your building or facility. ATI Restoration is available 24/7/365. Contact us today for immediate assistance.