What equipment is used in professional mold remediation?

Professional remediation requires specialized equipment: HEPA air scrubbers to filter airborne spores, HEPA vacuums for surface cleaning, negative air machines to maintain containment, moisture meters to verify drying, and appropriate PPE including respirators. Our equipment guide covers what each tool does and when it's needed.

How does containment work?

Containment isolates the work area using plastic sheeting barriers and maintains negative air pressure (typically -5 Pascals) so air flows into the contained area rather than out. This prevents spreading spores to unaffected areas. Air scrubbers run continuously to filter the air. See our containment and negative air guide for details.

When can mold be cleaned versus when must materials be removed?

It depends on the material type. Non-porous surfaces (glass, metal, hard plastic) can usually be cleaned. Semi-porous materials like wood can often be cleaned if contamination is surface-level. Porous materials like drywall, insulation, and carpet typically need removal if mold has penetrated. Our cleaning vs removal guide covers decision factors.

What is post-remediation verification?

Post-remediation verification (PRV) confirms the remediation was successful before closing up walls or declaring the project complete. An independent inspector — not the remediation company — should verify the space has returned to "Condition 1" (normal fungal ecology). This typically involves visual inspection and air sampling compared to outdoor baseline levels. See our PRV guide.

How do I handle mold in HVAC systems?

HVAC contamination is particularly concerning because the system can spread spores throughout the home. Depending on severity, options range from professional duct cleaning to component replacement. The system should not run during remediation. Our HVAC mold guide covers inspection, cleaning methods, and when replacement is necessary. For a clear decision framework, see HVAC cleaning versus replacement.

Should I DIY or hire a professional?

This is covered in our Remediation Planning section. In brief: small areas (under 10 sq ft) on non-porous surfaces can often be DIY. Larger areas, hidden mold, HVAC contamination, or health concerns warrant professional help. Take our DIY vs Pro Quiz for a personalized recommendation.

What is mold remediation?

Process of containing and removing mold, cleaning or replacing materials, and fixing moisture sources to prevent regrowth. Often follows IICRC S520. Learn more at moldcompass.com/remediate

Physical barriers (polyethylene sheeting) isolating remediation area. Prevents spore spread. Required for areas >10 sq ft per EPA/IICRC guidelines. Learn more at moldcompass.com/containment-and-negative-air

What is negative air?

Lower pressure inside containment vs. surroundings. Created by exhausting filtered air outside. Ensures airflow into containment, preventing spore escape. Learn more at moldcompass.com/containment-and-negative-air

Filter capturing 99.97% of particles ≥0.3 microns. Essential for mold remediation. Used in vacuums, air scrubbers, and respirators. DOE standard. Learn more at moldcompass.com/remediation-equipment

What is air scrubber?

Portable HEPA filtration unit. Filters air and can create negative pressure when exhausted outside. Multiple units for larger containments. Learn more at moldcompass.com/containment-and-negative-air

What is post-remediation verification?

Testing after remediation confirming successful cleanup. Includes visual inspection, moisture readings, and often air sampling. Should be independent. Learn more at moldcompass.com/post-remediation-verification

What is encapsulation?

Coating to seal mold on surfaces or sealing crawlspaces/basements with moisture barriers. Mold encapsulants are not substitute for removal. EPA-registered products required. Learn more at moldcompass.com/cleaning-vs-removal

What is antimicrobial?

Chemical killing mold. EPA recommends against routine use. Does not address moisture. Dead mold still allergenic. Encapsulants may follow removal. Learn more at moldcompass.com/cleaning-vs-removal

Critical response to water damage. EPA: dry within 24-48 hours to prevent mold. Uses air movers, dehumidifiers, heat. Monitor with moisture meters. Learn more at moldcompass.com/after-a-leak

What is dehumidifier?

Device removing moisture from air. Refrigerant, LGR (Low Grain Refrigerant), or desiccant types. Essential for maintaining 30-50% RH per EPA. Learn more at moldcompass.com/dehumidifier-guide

Protective gear for remediation workers. Minimum: N95 respirator, gloves, goggles. Larger jobs: P100 or PAPR, Tyvek suit. Protects from spore exposure. Learn more at moldcompass.com/diy-vs-pro-remediation

What is N95 respirator?

NIOSH-approved respirator filtering 95% of airborne particles. Minimum protection for small mold cleanup. Must fit properly. P100 for larger jobs. Learn more at moldcompass.com/diy-vs-pro-remediation

Mold remediation planning and techniques

Mold Remediation Overview

Start with planning and standards, then follow the techniques for safe and effective mold removal.

Start with Remediation Planning

Remediation Planning

Plan your mold remediation project. Compare DIY and professional help, understand standards, check insurance coverage, and avoid common mistakes.

Containment and Negative Air

How professional mold remediation uses containment and negative air pressure. Why these techniques matter for safe removal.

Remediation Equipment

Tools used in professional mold remediation: air scrubbers, HEPA vacuums, containment materials, PPE, moisture meters, and when to rent or hire.

Cleaning vs Removal

When mold can be cleaned vs. when materials must be removed. Decision guide for different surfaces and contamination levels.

Bleach vs Vinegar vs Mold Cleaner

Compare bleach, vinegar, and commercial mold cleaners. Learn what works, what to avoid, and how to clean safely.

Remediation Techniques

Complete guide to mold remediation techniques: containment, equipment, cleaning methods, material-specific guides, and post-remediation verification.

HVAC Mold Remediation

Dealing with mold in your HVAC system and air ducts. Inspection, cleaning options, and when replacement is necessary.

Clearance Testing

When to schedule clearance testing, who should do it, and what a pass looks like.

Post Remediation Verification

Ensuring mold remediation was successful. Testing protocols, clearance standards, and what to expect after remediation.

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Educational content only. For major contamination or health concerns, consult qualified professionals.