How to Ensure Accurate Cleaner Usage in Mold Remediation Cleanup

Mold remediation requires the right techniques and just the right amount of cleaner to be effective and safe. In a discussion with Brian Lester, a mold remediation expert from Dot Cleaner, we explored how to determine the appropriate amount of cleaners for various types of mold removal jobs. Our conversation highlighted the importance of precise calculations and the ways in which new technologies can assist in this process.

Understanding the Basics

Mold remediation projects come in all shapes and sizes, and each one has its own unique needs. Here's what you need to know:

1. Types of Remediation Projects: Different jobs call for different amounts of cleaner and techniques. For example, attic mold removal is different from crawl space cleaning.
2. Containment and Pressurization: On an average remediation job, you'll need to set up containment to isolate the area from the rest of the home. This often involves negative pressurization, where you draw air from the space and eject it outside or through a filter system into an unaffected area.
3. Cleaning Techniques: Cleaning usually involves a few steps. First, you remove the moldy materials, then you eliminate dust and mold spores with HEPA vacuuming. Wet cleaning comes next, where you apply and wipe down surfaces with cleaning products. Sometimes, a secondary vacuuming is needed to get rid of any dislodged particles.

Using too much or too little can affect the job's effectiveness and safety. By measuring the area accurately and understanding the specifics of the job, you can ensure you're using just the right amount of cleaner to get the job done right.

Determining Cleaner Quantity

Figuring out how much cleaner to use is key for any mold remediation job. Here's a simple rule of thumb: you typically need one gallon of cleaning product for every 200 to 500 square feet of area.

However, this can vary depending on the specific job. For example, crawl space cleaning usually requires more product—about one gallon per 100 to 200 square feet.

The amount of cleaner you need also depends on the type and severity of the mold infestation. Heavier infestations or tougher jobs will naturally require more product to ensure a thorough cleanup.

Concentration vs. Volume

A common misconception in mold remediation is thinking that using less cleaner means using less volume. The real issue is the concentration of the cleaner.

For instance, people often use high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, like 20% or more, thinking it's more effective. However, this can be dangerous. The hydrogen peroxide you use on a cut is only 3%, and even that can burn you if you're not careful. At 20%, it’s much more hazardous, and at 30%, it’s classified as an explosive.

Using high concentrations can pose serious risks to both the environment and your safety. It’s crucial to use the right concentration rather than just focusing on the amount of cleaner used. This approach ensures effective remediation while minimizing danger.

The Role of Technology in Accurate Calculation

Technology helps avoid using too many chemicals by allowing precise calculations. This is where magicplan comes in handy.

With magicplan, you can walk into a property, do a quick scan with your phone, and get all the measurements you need—floor area, surfaces, windows, doors, and more. This way, you can calculate exactly how much cleaner is needed for the job.

Using accurate measurements ensures you’re not wasting chemicals, which saves money and is better for the environment. Plus, it makes documenting the job a breeze, giving you a clear record of what was done and the materials used. 

Learn more: Best Practices for Documenting Mold Presence in Residential Restoration

Environmental and Safety Concerns

Overusing strong chemicals in mold remediation can have significant environmental impacts. For instance, high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, commonly used in remediation, can be more harmful to aquatic life than dilute hypochlorite. Even though hydrogen peroxide breaks down into water and oxygen, in high concentrations, it poses a threat to aquatic organisms.

Adhering to safety standards, like OSHA regulations and the IICRC S520, is crucial to ensure safe working conditions. These standards help minimize exposure to harmful chemicals and protect both workers and the environment.

Learn more: How to Build a Resilient Restoration Business Based on IICRC and OSHA Guidelines

Conclusion

Using the right amount of cleaner in mold remediation jobs makes all the difference for safety and effectiveness. Our chat with Brian emphasized understanding project details and getting the cleaner concentration right. Modern cleaners like Dot are more powerful, allowing you to clean deep mold stains with less product. Additionally, tools like magicplan assist in obtaining accurate measurements, preventing overuse.

By following these tips, you can ensure safer, more efficient mold remediation, leading to better results on every job.

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