Mold Remediation After Water Damage

Mold needs three things: moisture, something to feed on (wood, drywall paper, dust) and time. After water damage, it can start growing within 24 to 48 hours. In West Georgia's humid summers, crawl spaces, attics and bathrooms are common trouble spots even without a major leak.

Signs you may have mold

• A musty, earthy smell, especially when the AC kicks on
• Black, green or white spots on walls, ceilings, joists or subfloor
• Staining or discoloration after a past leak
• Peeling paint or bubbling drywall
• Allergy-like symptoms that improve when you leave the house

How mold remediation works

1. InspectionFind the moisture source and how far the growth has spread; testing if needed.
2. ContainmentPlastic barriers and negative air pressure keep spores from spreading to the rest of the house.
3. Air filtrationHEPA air scrubbers capture airborne spores during work.
4. Removal and cleaningMoldy porous materials are removed; framing is cleaned, sanded or treated.
5. Fix the moistureThe leak, humidity or drainage problem is corrected so it doesn't come back.

What it typically costs

Commonly reported ranges: small, contained jobs often run a few hundred to around $1,500; whole crawl spaces or attics are frequently $2,000 to $6,000; extensive remediation can run higher. See the cost guide.