Small Scale Levels of Mold Infestation

At what point is the presence of mold inside a home considered an infestation? There are different categories or levels to consider the extent of mold. Identifying the level of infestation can help homeowners determine if they can handle the situation themselves or if it is already time to call in the help of mold remediation experts. If you are dealing with mold in your home, the distinction of levels will help you:

Level 1: 10 Square Feet or Less

Almost every household will have to deal with mold. Handling a small scale infestation such as a level 1 scenario is basic and easily done. Here are a few steps to follow:

1. For people with respiratory or immune disorders, even a level 1 clean up should be avoided.
2. Always wear gloves, eye protection, and a mask when cleaning up.
3. Remove infants and people with medical conditions from the surroundings.
4. Dispose of materials that cannot be cleaned in a sealed plastic bag to prevent further contamination.
5. Ensure even the smallest of areas are left dry and visibly free of mold.

Level 2: 10 – 30 Square Feet

For a level 2 infestation, the same precautions as a level 1 infestation should be taken. Since the area of contamination is larger than that of level 1, here are some added precautions to take:

1. Wrap all the moldy materials in plastic sheets and secure with tape before handling these. This will contain the dust and debris and prevent spores from floating in the air.
2. Double wrap these materials before moving them out of the house. This will stop further contamination.
3. As soon as the mold removal is done, vacuum the work area and the surrounding areas with an HEPA vacuum and wipe the areas with a damp cloth, but allow to dry immediately.

Level 3: 30 – 100 Square Feet

The contaminated area will be much larger compared to levels 1 and 2, but the same basic precautions should be observed. This will be a bigger job and if you feel as if it is too much to handle, contact a mold remediation expert for help. Here are some added precautions for a level 3 infestation:

1. Seal vents, ducts, and grills within the working area and areas directly adjacent.
2. Vacate everyone from the home until the work is completed.

These are just the first 3 levels of mold contamination, as the level increases the work and necessary precautions will also increase. Check back for an update with the last 2 higher levels of mold infestation on the next post.