Mold Remediation Frequently Asked Questions
What is mold remediation?
Mold remediation is the professional process of identifying, containing, removing, and preventing mold growth inside a structure. Proper remediation addresses both visible mold and the moisture conditions that allow it to grow.
It is not cosmetic cleaning. It is a controlled, documented process designed to resolve the problem long term. Visit our mold remediation page to learn more about our services.
Does mold go away on its own?
No. Mold will continue to grow as long as moisture is present. Even when visible mold is removed, growth can persist inside walls, insulation, and framing if moisture conditions are not corrected.
This is why surface-level cleaning often fails.
Is mold dangerous?
Mold exposure can cause irritation, respiratory symptoms, headaches, and other health effects, particularly for children, older adults, and individuals with sensitivities or compromised immune systems.
Beyond health concerns, uncontrolled mold can damage building materials, reduce indoor air quality, and negatively impact property value. Organizations such as the EPA and CDC consistently emphasize moisture control and proper remediation as the correct approach.
Can I clean mold myself?
Small, isolated mold growth on non-porous surfaces can sometimes be cleaned safely by homeowners. However, many mold problems involve hidden growth, porous materials, or ongoing moisture conditions.
DIY sprays, fogging products, or bleach applications do not address mold inside walls or framing and frequently allow the problem to return. Improper cleaning can also spread spores and worsen contamination.
Professional remediation is recommended when mold is persistent, widespread, or associated with water damage.
Is fogging or spraying enough?
No. Fogging or spraying alone does not remove mold growth or contaminated materials. These methods may temporarily reduce odors or surface appearance, but they do not resolve the underlying issue.
Effective remediation requires containment, physical removal or cleaning of affected materials, and correction of moisture conditions.
Do you follow industry standards?
Yes. Our remediation methods align with established industry standards, including IICRC guidelines. Each project is scoped based on actual site conditions rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Do you use containment and air filtration?
Yes. Proper containment and air control are critical components of professional mold remediation. These measures help prevent cross-contamination and protect unaffected areas of the structure during work.
Do you perform mold testing?
Mold testing is not always required to proceed with remediation. In many cases, visible growth and moisture conditions provide sufficient information to define the scope of work.
When testing or post-remediation clearance is appropriate, we can perform testing or coordinate with independent professionals depending on the situation.
How much does mold remediation cost?
Mold remediation costs vary depending on:
- The size of the affected area
- The type of materials involved
- The extent of contamination
- Access and containment requirements
Accurate pricing requires a professional inspection. Once the scope is defined, we are transparent and upfront about costs. Call us at (313) 731-0025 or contact us online to learn more.
Is the inspection free?
Mold inspections are paid. If you proceed with remediation, the inspection fee is credited back toward the project.
This ensures inspections are thorough, professional, and properly documented.
Will insurance cover mold remediation?
Insurance coverage depends on the policy and the cause of loss. Mold remediation is sometimes covered when it results from a sudden, documented water event. It is less commonly covered when caused by long-term moisture or maintenance issues.
When insurance is involved, we document the project clearly and professionally. Coverage decisions are made by the insurance carrier, not the remediation company.
How long does mold remediation take?
Project timelines depend on the scope of work and drying requirements. Some projects can be completed in a few days, while others may take longer depending on access, materials, and moisture conditions.
Timelines are discussed clearly once the scope is established.
Will mold come back after remediation?
Mold will not return if moisture conditions are corrected and remediation is performed properly. Ongoing humidity control, repairs, and maintenance are important for long-term prevention.
Are you a franchise?
No. Zeppelin Cleaning Services is a locally owned, family-operated company. Our headquarters is in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, with an additional office in Birmingham. We proudly serve Metro Detroit communities.
Can’t I just kill mold with bleach?
Bleach can kill some mold on hard, non-porous surfaces. However, killing mold does not make it harmless.
Even when mold is dead, spores and fragments can remain irritating and allergenic. On porous materials like wood, drywall, and insulation, bleach does not penetrate deeply enough to fully address the problem.
Most importantly, bleach does not correct the moisture conditions that allow mold to grow. This is why mold commonly returns after bleach or spray treatments.
If the mold is dead, why is remediation still necessary?
Dead mold can still:
- Trigger allergic or respiratory reactions
- Release particles into the air when disturbed
- Indicate ongoing moisture issues inside the structure
Professional remediation focuses on containment, removal or proper cleaning of affected materials, and moisture control – not just killing organisms on the surface.
What about vinegar, peroxide, or store-bought mold sprays?
Some household products may reduce surface appearance or odor temporarily. They do not address:
- Mold growth inside walls or framing
- Contaminated porous materials
- Airborne spores
- The underlying moisture source
These products may improve how an area looks or smells but do not resolve the problem.
Why does mold keep coming back after cleaning?
Mold returns when moisture is still present. Common causes include:
- Poor ventilation
- Basement or crawlspace humidity
- Hidden plumbing or roof leaks
- Improper drying after water damage
Unless the moisture source is corrected and affected materials are properly addressed, mold growth will continue.
Is mold always visible?
No. Many mold problems are hidden behind walls, under flooring, or inside insulation.
Persistent odors, elevated moisture readings, or a history of water damage often indicate a problem before visible growth appears.
Is all mold “black mold”?
No. “Black mold” is a common term used to describe Stachybotrys, a specific type of mold that can appear dark green or black and is associated with long-term moisture issues.
The seriousness of a mold problem depends less on color and more on:
- The extent of growth
- The materials affected
- Air quality impact
- Moisture conditions
Any uncontrolled indoor mold growth should be taken seriously, regardless of color.
Why can’t mold just be sealed in or painted over?
Painting or sealing over mold does not remove contamination. If moisture remains, mold can continue growing behind sealed surfaces and spread further into the structure.
Proper remediation involves removing or cleaning affected materials before any sealing or rebuilding occurs.
Why is professional mold remediation more expensive than cleaning?
Professional mold remediation includes:
- Containment and air control
- Specialized equipment and HEPA filtration
- Removal or treatment of contaminated materials
- Proper disposal and documentation
These steps protect occupants and prevent cross-contamination. Cosmetic cleaning does not.