In most cases mold growth is obvious and can be confirmed with a visible inspection. There are many different types of mold and it can come in a variety of different colours (black, brown, green, white, etc).

If left untreated, mold will continue to grow and spread and may become a much more dangerous issue; therefore a certified mold remediation company should be contacted to determine the severity and the best way to remediate.

Another way to identify whether it is mold or not, is to have the area tested for mold. An environmentalist can come in and take a swab or perform and air quality test to determine what type of mold and how elevated the mold spores are.

Everyone reacts differently to mold. Often, occupants of homes and business’ are suffering from numerous symptoms commonly associated with or caused by indoor mold growth. They try to overcome the issue by focusing on lifestyle or medication, but do not realize that the issue is in the indoor air they are breathing. People may suffer from allergies, asthma, colds and sinus infections, sneezing, flu symptoms, disorders, rashes, and memory loss to name a few.

Typically it can be traced to one or more of the following issues:

• A roof leak
• A bathroom or kitchen improperly vented into the attic space
• Poor ventilation, too few vents or blocked soffits
• Lack of insulation allowing an area to condensate in the attic

This discoloration is likely mold, but may just be staining. Email us a picture at info@accu-star.ca. If you have one, let us review it and help answer your question.

This may be mold but in most cases, it is just ‘efflorescence’-salt leaching from the concrete or brick. Call us to find out more.

There are some important factors to consider when dealing with mold removal and remediation. A professional company will not only be outfitted with the proper safety equipment, but will know how to avoid potential cross contamination through airborne mold spores. This can lead to other rooms being affected or even your health.

The steps involving identification, protection, removal and prevention of returning mold are key when considering a professional contractor.

No. However, we do provide individual contractors who perform minor to major reconstruction services. If you absolutely require a turnkey solution, we will provide you with one.

There are several different options for removing mold, all depending on where it is growing and what type of mold it is.

Anytime mold is growing on organic material it must be physically removed...for example:

a) Drywall

b) Wood Structures/ Studs

c) Panelling

According to the IICRC Guidlines (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration); “Physically removing mold contamination is the primary means of remediation. Mold contamination should be physically removed from the structure, systems and contents to return them to Condition 1. Attempts to kill, encapsulate or inhibit mold instead of proper source removal generally are not adequate.”

Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Standards physical means of removing mold consist of:

a) Full removal of material (cutting out affected drywall)

b) Soda Blasting

c) Grinding

Depending on what materials the mold is growing on will determine the best way of removing it. Mold on drywall and mold on plaster will be fully removed even including 2 feet around the affected area to ensure all mold growth is removed.

Mold in Attics is removed by Soda blasting, which blasts the mold off the sheathing and studs to ensure all the mold right to the root is removed.

When mold is growing on non-organic material or is just a surface mold, using a mold control product or hot water and soap can be sufficient...e.g.:

a) Bathtubs

b) Sinks

c) Window Sills

Another very common area for mold to grow is in the shower/bath tub grout or caulking. Because the bathroom is a damp space is it very important to have a fan that is in working order and anytime a shower is used, make sure the fan is left on for ½ hour to an hour. Sometimes this can be cleaned up by yourself but to be safe, contact Canada’s Restoration Services first!

It is very important when dealing with mold to consult a certified company before removing any mold. We are fully trained in all aspects of dealing with mold and remediation and are here to answer all your mold questions!