Question 1

What is Flooding Mitigation?

Accepted Answer

Is the act of preventing flood damage risk either before or after a flood has occurred. Flooding mitigation encompasses reactive as well as the proactive measures aimed at minimizing the impact of floods on communities and infrastructure. Flood prevention is commonly used, and for some, the term is confused with flood mitigation.

Question 2

What events can cause water damage?

Accepted Answer

Many things can cause San Diego water damage. A hurricane, tornado or flood can cause water damage, but so can a broken pipe or even a small leak not caught quickly.

Question 3

Can you prevent water damage?

Accepted Answer

Proper maintenance of all parts of your structure can help. This includes water pipes, gutters, appliances and more. Monthly inspections of your septic tank, if you have one, is also important.

Question 4

Do I really need mold remediation after Water Damage?

Accepted Answer

After any water damage inside a home or business, it's essential to assess the extent of water damage and the potential for mold growth. Here are some factors to consider:

Duration of Moisture Exposure: Mold can begin to grow within 24-48 hours after water damage has begun to go unrecognized. If your home or business has had wet, damp, or leaking water for an extended period, there's a high likelihood of mold growth.

Extent of Water Damage: If the water damaged areas were rapidly removed, and affected only a small area, you may be able to clean and dry the area yourself. However, if the water was contaminated or if the water damage was extensive, it's best to seek professional water damage remediation services and have them evaluate for mold risks, testing when necessary.

Hidden Mold: Mold often grows in hidden areas, such as behind walls, under flooring, and in air ducts. A professional mold inspection can identify hidden mold and ensure thorough remediation. If you have had extended water damage, you should consider getting a mold testing and air testing.

Preventive Measures: Even if you don't see visible mold growth, it's advisable to have your home inspected for mold after water damage to prevent future problems. Mold growth can be quite devastating for home values and for your health.

While not all water damage scenarios require professional mold remediation, it's essential to assess the situation carefully and consider the factors mentioned above to determine the best course of action for your home and your family's health. Taking fast action is best as mold will rapidly begin to spread when moisture is present in your home.

Question 5

How long will the water damage clean-up process take?

Accepted Answer

Orange Restoration technicians do their best to work as effectively and as efficiently as possible. They will set up state of the art drying machines as soon as they begin the project to expedite the drying process. However the drying time can vary from project to project. Factors such as what kind of building material is affected, how saturated it is, and the extent of the flood damage all contribute to the time needed to bring your property back to pre-flood conditions.

If we are working on your restoration project and are concerned with timeline, call us, we are available 24/7 for our customers and are standing by for emergency services.

Question 6

Why is water damage so expensive?

Accepted Answer

Water Damage is not expensive, the ignoring the damage is what causes the most expense. The time factor is imperitive, within 6 hours the water can saturate some of the wooden pieces of your home that are essential. If you procrastinate on water damage, you will have massive loss up to nearly the entire value of your home as the structural integrity is absolutely compremised. Be sure to handle water damage ASAP as it will become a nightmare financially and with the mess physically.

Question 7

How long does it take for water to cause structural damage?

Accepted Answer

Time is critical; within six hours, water can saturate essential wooden structures in your home. Delaying action on water damage can lead to significant losses, potentially up to the full value of your home, as the structural integrity will be severely compromised.

Question 8

What is a mold remediation protocol?

Accepted Answer

A mold remediation protocol is a structured plan used to safely remove mold from a building. Traditional mold remediation often involves antimicrobial treatments, encapsulation, or disinfection, whereas medically sound remediation focuses on complete mold removal without the use of antimicrobial agents, ensuring a safer environment for sensitive individuals.

Look into our Medically Sound Remediation & Small Particle Cleaning services if you have sensitivities to mold or have particular health concerns.

Question 9

How do you clean items exposed to mold?

Accepted Answer

Hard-surface items can typically be cleaned with proper HEPA vacuuming and wiping. However, porous materials are more challenging to clean, and in some cases, replacing them may be more cost-effective.

Question 10

What is CIRS-Safe Remediation?

Accepted Answer

CIRS-safe remediation follows the same principles as medically sound remediation, ensuring that no antimicrobials, sealants, or chemical treatments are used while focusing on complete removal of mold contaminants.

Question 11

How is medically sound mold remediation different from standard mold removal?

Accepted Answer

Medically sound mold remediation goes beyond traditional mold cleanup by focusing on health outcomes and preventing biotoxin exposure. It follows advanced protocols like the CIRSx Medically Important Remediation standard, which includes HEPA filtration, small particle removal, cross-contamination prevention, and often third-party verification. Standard mold removal typically focuses on visible mold and may not address microscopic particles or medically sensitive concerns, leaving risks for people with chronic illness.

Pro Tip: Standard remediation isn’t enough for medically sensitive individuals. Even after traditional cleanup, ultrafine particles, dead spores, and mold fragments often remain. These microscopic contaminants can still trigger severe reactions in those who are immune-compromised or mold-sensitive. For true health and safety, insist on medically sound remediation that includes Small Particle Cleaning and post-remediation verification (PRV) testing.

Question 12

Why does Mold come back after Remediation?

Accepted Answer

Mold often returns when the underlying cause, such as hidden leaks, excess humidity, or poor ventilation, is not fully resolved. If moisture remains in walls, flooring, or crawl spaces, mold spores can easily regrow. Another common reason is incomplete remediation, where contaminated materials are left behind or drying protocols were inadequate to prevent mold growth.

Secondary mold growth can also happen when contractors without proper training attempt DIY or “budget” mold removal. These shortcuts often ignore cross-contamination, leaving fine particles and dead spores that still trigger health reactions and can reseed mold growth.

See Secondary Mold to learn more.

Why not to call “Restorations Companies Nearby” as proximity does not help with training or certification.

To prevent mold from coming back, medically sound remediation goes beyond surface cleaning. It includes moisture mapping, containment, small particle cleaning, and third-party post-remediation verification (PRV) testing to ensure the environment is truly safe.

Occurs when mold remediation was not done properly. Either by well meaning DIY intentions, poorly trained hired maintenance personnel, or various other tradesmen not properly trained in mold remediation protocols, the result is deeper returning mold. When mold is not done right, especially in the drying protocols, mold can return and be a bigger and deeper problem. Pro Tip: Research the credentials of any remediation company, ask if they can fully restore your home after remediation, ask if they have ever encountered secondary mold problems, and always check their reviews to see if they are consistent with what a homeowner would say, or are they saying “Will return again!” or even “Great speedy services, hot to order!” as many remediation companies are getting fake reviews as AI is allowing reviews to be prioritized by quantity and not quality feedback from reviewers.

Question 13

What are the Symptoms of Mold Exposure in a Home?

Accepted Answer

Common symptoms of mold exposure include:

Persistent sinus congestion or allergy-like symptoms

Fatigue or exhaustion that worsens indoors

Headaches or brain fog

Skin rashes or irritation

Shortness of breath or wheezing

Eye irritation or watery eyes

Sleep disturbances or night sweats

If symptoms improve when you leave your home, mold or water damage could be contributing to your health issues.

Mold & Health blog resources:

Identifying Mold Causes is Critical for Health

Mold Growth Imposes Serious Health Effects

Mold and the The Effect It Can Have On Your Health

4 Signs Mold is Affecting Your Health

Learning About CIRS, Your Health & Home

PRO TIP: Often, the first signs of mold aren’t what you see, but how you feel. Many people notice symptoms that worsen at work or home and improve when they leave, such as unexplained fatigue, headaches, sinus issues, or even mood changes. These reactions can be the body’s way of signaling a hidden mold problem, especially if you’ve had recent water damage or high humidity.

Pro Tip follow up: Why?: Because mold needs only moisture, organic material, and a little time to thrive, it can spread behind walls, in closets, or under flooring without obvious visual clues. If you suspect your health symptoms are linked to your environment, it’s important to investigate before the problem grows worse. Often, people who just had remediation call us with horror stories of Secondary Mold.

Question 14

Can mold cause Chronic Illness or conditions like CIRS?

Accepted Answer

Yes, mold exposure can contribute to chronic illness, including conditions like Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS). CIRS occurs when the immune system cannot properly clear biotoxins from mold or water-damaged buildings, leading to inflammation and multi-system symptoms.

Individuals with genetic predispositions are particularly vulnerable. If you have ongoing symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, sinus issues, or worsening health when at home, environmental mold could be a factor.

Many individuals diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) may actually be suffering from environmental factors such as mold exposure, which often go undetected. One major reason? Identifying the root cause can be costly and complex, and most conventional medical systems aren’t designed to investigate environmental triggers.

Doctors, trained as generalists, often focus on symptom management rather than environmental assessments. However, a growing number of forward-thinking medical professionals recognize we’re on the brink of a medical shift toward integrating environmental health into individualized diagnosis and treatment, a critical evolution for addressing conditions like CFS, CIRS, and other chronic illnesses.

Learn more about CIRS and home health in our blogs!

Question 15

How do I know if my Home needs Small Particle Cleaning after Mold Remediation?

Accepted Answer

If you or family members continue experiencing symptoms after mold remediation, or if you have health conditions like CIRS, small particle cleaning is often necessary.

Standard or traditional remediation can leave behind microscopic mold fragments and toxins that are invisible but still harmful. Post Remediation Verification (PRV) testing or a consultation with a CIRS-aware remediator can help determine if this extra level of cleaning is needed.

Pro Tip: Look into secondary mold, this is not a common term, but recently here in San Diego, we have seen most of our work recently coming from this problem. Only solution is to make sure you only hire qualified professionals working on remediation. Furthermore, when you consider DIY mold remediation, think of secondary mold risks, drying is just as important  as the cleaning portion of the work.

Question 16

What is the Safest Way to Remove Mold for Someone with Mold Sensitivity?

Accepted Answer

For those with mold sensitivity, the safest approach is a Medically Sound Remediation process.

Medically Sound Remediation process includes:

HEPA air filtration

Containment to prevent cross-contamination

Small particle cleaning to remove microscopic spores and fragments

Use of non-toxic cleaning solutions to avoid VOC exposure

Always work with certified professionals familiar with CIRS or medically sensitive protocols.

Question 17

Can I Clean Mold Myself if I have Health Issues?

Accepted Answer

If you have mold sensitivity or chronic illness, DIY mold cleanup is not recommended. Disturbing mold without proper containment and filtration can release spores and toxins into the air, increasing exposure. Instead, work with professionals trained in medically sound remediation to ensure your environment is safe.

Many cases of secondary mold start with DIY attempts or inexperienced contractors skipping critical steps. Even well-intentioned efforts can create bigger problems. The best safeguard is to invest in a professional assessment, proper mold testing, and a detailed scope of work from a qualified inspector before remediation begins.

Mold doesn’t just damage your walls or cause a musty smell. Mold impacts our health and can even make our bodies a host to mold spores and VOCs. -The Medically Sound Remediators

Pro Tips for Medically Sound Mold Remediation

At Orange Restoration, we know that medically sensitive clients require more than basic mold cleanup. If you’re concerned about mold’s impact on your health, these are the three non-negotiables for true safety:

Pro Tip #1: Never Skip the Drying PhaseEven the best cleaning fails if hidden moisture remains. Professional moisture mapping and thermal imaging confirm materials are truly dry before walls are closed or repairs completed.

Pro Tip #2: Containment Is Non-NegotiableImproper containment spreads mold spores and toxins throughout your home. Ensure your contractor uses negative air machines, HEPA filtration, and strict cross-contamination protocols every time.

Pro Tip #3: Testing Verifies, It Doesn’t AssumeEvery medically sound remediation project should end with third-party post-remediation verification (PRV) testing. Skipping this leaves you guessing whether ultrafine particles, spores, or toxins are still present.

For those with CIRS, mold sensitivities, or chronic conditions, these steps aren’t optional–they’re essential. Our team follows CIRSx-certified protocols to ensure your environment is safe, clean, and truly healthy.

Question 18

Do all Mold Remediation Companies follow Medically Sound Protocols?

Accepted Answer

No, most mold remediation companies do not follow medically sound protocols. Traditional contractors focus on visible mold removal, not small particle cleaning or air quality verification. Medically sound remediation requires additional training, certifications like CIRSx, and adherence to strict health-based standards. Always ask if your contractor is familiar with these methods.

Question 19

Does Orange Restoration handle Emergency Water Damage and Medically Sound Mold Remediation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Orange Restoration provides both emergency water damage services and also more complex, medically sound mold remediation. We specialize in health-conscious cleanup, including small particle cleaning and CIRS-safe protocols, while also offering full rebuild and restoration services, all under one company roof. We do this because medically sensitive people need all services from trained professionals at the top tier of their training. We in-house all these experts from San Diego County.

We offer many other services such as Fire Damage Repairs, Flood Remediation, and disaster repairs, but Medically Sound Mold Remediation.

Question 20

What Certifications do Your Mold Remediators have?

Accepted Answer

Our team is certified in Medically Important Remediation through CIRSx and trained to follow the Shoemaker Protocol for health-based cleaning. We also meet industry standards for water damage restoration, structural drying, and IAQ management.

Orange Restoration holds advanced certifications and training to meet the highest industry and health-focused standards:

CIRSx Medically Important Remediation Certification – Specialized training for health-conscious remediation, focusing on environments impacted by mold and water damage for medically sensitive individuals.

Shoemaker Protocol Training – Our team follows scientifically validated protocols for mold-related illness, ensuring remediation aligns with health recovery needs.

IICRC-Certified Expertise – Including Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) and Applied Structural Drying (ASD), ensuring proper moisture control, thorough drying, and structural integrity.

Advanced Indoor Air Quality Practices – Expert-level training in methods to reduce airborne contaminants, manage ultrafine particles, and create safer indoor environments.

These credentials and specialized skills allow us to deliver medically sound remediation, comprehensive water damage restoration, and air quality solutions while maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism.

Question 21

How do you get rid of fire damage?

Accepted Answer

Getting rid of fire damage involves several steps, including assessment, cleaning, and restoration. Here's a comprehensive guide:

Safety First: Ensure the property is safe to enter. Wear protective gear such as masks, gloves, and eye protection. Contact local authorities to confirm it’s safe to re-enter the premises.

Assessment: Contact your insurance company to report the fire and start the claims process. Hire a professional fire damage restoration company to assess the extent of the damage.

Ventilation: Open windows and doors to ventilate the area and reduce smoke odors. Use fans and dehumidifiers to circulate air and help dry out the property.

Soot and Smoke Removal: Clean soot from surfaces using a vacuum with a HEPA filter to avoid spreading particles. Use a dry sponge (chemical sponge) to wipe down walls and surfaces. Avoid using water initially, as it can make soot stains worse. Clean affected items with specialized cleaning products designed for soot and smoke removal. Water Damage

Mitigation: If water was used to extinguish the fire, address water damage immediately. Remove standing water using pumps or wet/dry vacuums. Dry out the area thoroughly with fans, dehumidifiers, and heaters to prevent mold growth.

Structural Cleaning and Restoration: Remove damaged materials, including drywall, flooring, and insulation that cannot be salvaged. Clean and sanitize the structure to remove smoke residues and odors using specialized equipment like ozone generators or thermal foggers. Seal and repaint walls to cover any remaining stains and seal in odors.

Repairs and Reconstruction: Repair or replace damaged structural elements, such as framing, drywall, and roofing. Restore electrical and plumbing systems as needed. Rebuild and refurbish the interior, including flooring, cabinetry, and fixtures.

Final Steps: Conduct a thorough cleaning of the entire property, including air ducts and HVAC systems, to remove lingering smoke odors and soot particles. Inspect the property to ensure all damage has been addressed and it is safe for occupancy.

Professional Help: Consider hiring professionals for certain tasks, such as electricians, plumbers, and restoration experts, to ensure safety and compliance with building codes.

Prevention: Install smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Create and practice a fire evacuation plan. Consider fire-resistant building materials for future renovations. Addressing fire damage promptly and thoroughly is crucial to restoring your home and preventing further issues.

Question 22

What is the Best Fire Restoration company is San Diego County?

Accepted Answer

ORANGE RESTORATION IS THE #1 SMOKE AND FIRE DAMAGE REPAIR SAN DIEGO

It is essential to undertake each step of the property restoration process with intense keenness and ensure it is done correctly since failure of the procedure or overlooking a simple thing can give rise to additional problems. The fire restoration process is a dangerous endeavor that should not be done by homeowners. It should, however, be handled by someone qualified with enough training in dealing with scenarios such as these. If you need your home restoration to be handled by qualified staff with enough experience in salvaging valuables, then Orange Restoration in San Diego, CA is the perfect place to go. Our company is certified by Clean Trust and is always ready and willing to handle all your fire, smoke, water, and mold restoration requirements. All you need to do is make a phone call to (619) 376-6838 and wait for our technician, and within an hour the technician will be on your doorstep ready to lend assistance.

Question 23

Can Orange Restoration Assess the Fire Damage of My Home?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We can do that! Once you have contacted us or any fire restoration company, their first step will be to assess the extent of the fire damage. We will evaluate how far the fire, smoke, soot, and water have spread throughout your property. This assessment will reveal the impact on your ceilings, walls, and furniture.

The assessment process is crucial for us to fully understand the damage and quickly develop a plan of action. Our team will work hard to provide you with an accurate cost estimate and a timeline for the restoration work.

We have a blog article on Urgent Fire Damage Repairs and Medical Concerns written because of our recent training in Medically Sound Remediation. With this recent upgrade in our training, we simply have more value to add. For example,  with our fire damage restoration services, we have all the experts needed for full restoration. This includes a master plumber, team of electricians, mold remediation, and an expert reconstruction team. We have these experts on our team because when we do medically sound remediation, we need to be absolutely sure no third part comes in and does something to negatively impact a project's containment.

Question 24

How do you perform small particle cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Small particle cleaning is a critical step in mold illness recovery. It involves HEPA vacuuming and a wet-wipe/dry-wipe sequence to remove fine particulates from all surfaces.

Question 25

What makes Orange Restoration different by specializing in this Medically Sound Remediation services?

Accepted Answer

Medically Sound Remediation is not like traditional remediation, with our medically sound remediation protocols, we can leave no mold behind. Traditional remediation protocols allows for mold particles, and dead spores to remain after remediation. If you work with Orange Restoration, you can be sure that we will work hard to pass your Post Remediation Verification (PRV) test on the first attempt to reduce costs, length of our work, and get you back in your home as soon as it is safe again.

Question 26

What is the Shoemaker Protocol?

Accepted Answer

The Shoemaker Protocol for mold is the medical aspect of your recovery journey, designed to help individuals affected by mold-related illness through a structured medical treatment plan. Medically Sound Remediation and Small Particle Cleaning is only part of the Shoemaker Protocol.

Question 27

How long does the Shoemaker Protocol take?

Accepted Answer

The duration of the Shoemaker Protocol varies depending on the individual's health condition, severity of exposure, and response to treatment. It can take several months to years for full recovery.

Our Medically Sound and Small Particle cleaning service is only part of the healing process. Please look into finding an IEP or a medical doctor to discuss this this protocol in more depth.

Question 28

Does the Shoemaker Protocol work?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Shoemaker Protocol has been proven effective for individuals suffering from mold-related illnesses by addressing inflammation and removing biotoxins from the body. Science is increasingly validating Dr. Shoemaker's work as larger medical institutions recognize its success in treating thousands of patients with Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS). These patients, each with unique experiences related to mold and VOC exposure in their homes, have found relief through his approach. While conventional Western medicine often falls short in addressing CIRS, Dr. Shoemaker’s integrative method, combining naturopathic principles, medical training, and specialized protocols—has helped many on their path to recovery.

Question 29

What is the Shoemaker Protocol treatment?

Accepted Answer

The Shoemaker Protocol treatment involves a structured medical approach that includes diagnostic testing, biotoxin removal, and steps to reduce inflammation, all aimed at restoring the patient’s health.

Question 30

What is the difference between Medically Sound Remediation and Traditional Mold Remediation?

Accepted Answer

Medically sound remediation does not involve disinfecting, killing, or encapsulating mold but instead focuses on completely removing it from building materials. It adheres to higher standards to prevent re-exposure and ensure a safe environment for recovery.

What are the key elements of Medically Sound Remediation Services?

No use of antimicrobials

No encapsulation

No sealing of cavities

White glove test for thorough cleanliness

All discoloration must be remediated

Mandatory decontamination chambers

Continuous negative air pressure

Strict PPE protection

Full 6-mil containment barriers to prevent cross-contamination

The key differences between Medically Sound Remediation and Traditional Remediation lie in the level of detail, the protocols followed, and the ultimate goal of the remediation process. Here’s a breakdown of the main distinctions:

1. Focus on Health vs. Structure

Medically Sound Remediation prioritizes occupant health, especially for those with conditions like CIRS, mold sensitivity, or other environmental illnesses.

Traditional Remediation primarily focuses on structural integrity and preventing further damage.

2. Cleaning Standards

Medically Sound Remediation goes beyond visible mold removal, addressing ultrafine particles, biotoxins, and airborne contaminants to create an environment safe for hypersensitive individuals.

Traditional Remediation typically follows industry-standard guidelines (like the IICRC S520) to remove visible mold and prevent regrowth but may not eliminate the small particles that continue affecting health.

3. Testing and Verification

Medically Sound Remediation often includes detailed post-remediation verification (PRV) testing, such as:

ERMI (Environmental Relative Moldiness Index) testing

HERTSMI-2 (Health Effects Roster of Type-Specific Formers of Mycotoxins and Inflammagens-2)

ATP testing for biological contaminants

Airborne and settled dust analysis for small particles

Traditional Remediation may only include standard air or surface sampling post-remediation, primarily checking for visible mold presence rather than microscopic contaminants.

4. Use of Biocides and Cleaning Agents

Medically Sound Remediation avoids harsh chemicals, using medical-grade HEPA filtration, mechanical cleaning, and safer products to remove contaminants without introducing additional toxins.

Traditional Remediation often relies on chemical biocides or fungicides, which may kill mold but can leave behind harmful residues.

5. Cross-Contamination Prevention

Medically Sound Remediation follows strict containment, negative air pressure, and decontamination protocols to prevent cross-contamination of fine particles throughout the home.

Traditional Remediation typically uses containment but may not account for the smallest particulate spread.

Question 31

Is PRV Testing Only in Medically Sound Remediation?

Accepted Answer

PRV (Post-Remediation Verification) testing is not exclusive to medically sound remediation, but the type of PRV testing differs.

Traditional Remediation PRV: Oftenn includes visual inspections and standard air or surface mold testing.

Medically Sound PRV: Incorporates more advanced testing like ERMI, HERTSMI-2, & particle counts to ensure the environment is truly safe for sensitive individuals.

Question 32

What is an environmental inspection on a home?

Accepted Answer

An in-home medically sound IEP inspection is crucial for identifying all affected areas in a property, ensuring that no hidden mold remains undiscovered, which is essential for successful remediation.

Question 33

What do Indoor Environmental Professionals (IEPs) do?

Accepted Answer

Indoor Environmental Professionals (IEPs) assess indoor air quality, provide general guidance, and develop remediation scopes based on forensic testing, including indoor air and surface sampling.

Question 34

What is an Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP)?

Accepted Answer

An IEP is a specialist who assesses properties for mold and indoor air quality concerns, conducting forensic testing to identify hidden contamination and guide remediation efforts. A qualified IEP must have extensive knowledge of building materials, construction defects, fungal ecology, and environmental science to properly assess contamination risks.

Question 35

What is fine particle cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Fine particle cleaning refers to the process of removing ultrafine mold and dust particles, typically ranging from 2-20 microns, from surfaces to prevent contamination. We offer Small Particle Cleaning services to help with removal of these ultrafine particles.

Question 36

How do you get rid of small dust particles?

Accepted Answer

The best method for removing fine dust particles is a combination of HEPA vacuuming, thorough surface wiping, and maintaining proper air filtration. if you need help, we offer Small Particle Cleaning services.

Question 37

How to tell if your house is toxic?

Accepted Answer

The most reliable way to determine if your house is toxic is by hiring a certified and experienced IEP. Standard home inspections or environmental assessments often miss hidden contamination due to testing limitations. An IEP will work as an advocate for your health, they will do many lab tests and physical inspections to find the source of the problems.

Home Testing for mold or any DIY testing for mold is not recommended.

Question 38

What are the signs of Mold Sickness?

Accepted Answer

Mold sickness can manifest in various ways, including changes in the health of a home’s occupants, family members, pets, or even plants. A persistent musty odor in the home may also indicate mold issues. If you suspect mold, call an Indoor Air Quality Testing professional or an Indoor Environmental Professional, if you need help with this, call us!

Question 39

What are the Symptoms of Mold Sickness?

Accepted Answer

Symptoms of mold sickness in individuals can include chronic fatigue, respiratory issues, brain fog, skin rashes, headaches, and sinus congestion.

Question 40

What is Mold Sickness Treatment?

Accepted Answer

Mold sickness treatment typically involves removing exposure sources, detoxifying the body, and following medical protocols such as the Shoemaker Protocol. Look at a recent blog post about Mold Sickness Treatment we recently published.

Question 41

How to clean your Belongings after Mold Remediation for CIRS?

Accepted Answer

While hiring a third-party vendor for fine particle cleaning is common, homeowners have also successfully completed this process themselves using HEPA vacuuming and surface wiping techniques. We offer Small Particle Cleaning services to get you started and can work with your belongings to help restore all back to normal.

Question 42

How long should you stay out of the House after Mold Remediation?

Accepted Answer

If financially feasible, it is recommended to stay out of the exposure area until an IEP has re-inspected the home and confirmed that remediation was successful. The testing provided by an IEP will help you to determine all contamination has been removed.

Question 43

How likely is Mold to come back after Remediation?

Accepted Answer

Mold requires moisture to grow, so maintaining a dry and clean environment is crucial for preventing regrowth after remediation. Mold can grow anywhere there is neglected areas with moisture, dampness, or warmth. Mold should not re-occur after remediation if it has been done correctly with Medically Sound Remediation and Small Particle Cleaning, there should be a removal of absolutely all mold. So, chances of regrowth after medically Sound are significantly reduced, while traditional remediation risks the reoccurrence because some mold is left behind.

Question 44

What do professionals use for Mold Remediation?

Accepted Answer

Traditional mold remediation professionals use commonly accepted methods, while medically sound environmental professionals adhere to significantly higher standards to ensure safety for sensitive individuals.

Medically Sound Mold Remediation standards:

No use of antimicrobials

No encapsulation

No sealing of cavities

White glove test for thorough cleanliness

All discoloration must be remediated

Mandatory decontamination chambers

Continuous negative air pressure

Strict PPE protection

Full 6-mil containment barriers to prevent cross-contamination

Question 45

What is the most Problematic Environmental Issue for Homeowners?

Accepted Answer

One of the most significant environmental concerns in buildings is moisture intrusion, which can lead to mold growth.

While this may not always compromise structural integrity, it can severely impact indoor air quality and pose serious health risks, particularly for hypersensitive individuals.

The EPA has reported extensively on mold sensitivities and the health impacts of water-damaged buildings, yet standard remediation practices often fall short in addressing the needs of those with severe sensitivities.

Question 46

What does Small Particle Cleaning mean?

Accepted Answer

Small particle cleaning (SPC) is a specialized cleaning method designed to remove ultra-fine contaminants from indoor environments, including mold fragments, mycotoxins, and dust particles that are invisible to the eye but harmful to sensitive individuals. Unlike standard cleaning, which targets visible dirt, small particle cleaning focuses on microscopic particles that can remain in a home even after traditional remediation.

Small particle cleaning is a specialized process designed to remove microscopic contaminants, such as mold spores, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), fragments, and ultrafine particles (UFPs), particles that traditional cleaning and even professional traditional remediation leave behind. These particles can settle on surfaces and remain airborne, posing health risks, especially for those with mold sensitivities or conditions like Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS).

This method is especially important for those with chronic inflammatory conditions like CIRS, asthma, or chemical sensitivities. It involves the use of HEPA vacuums, non-toxic wiping techniques, and strict cross-contamination protocols to ensure that particles are physically removed rather than stirred up or left behind.In medically sound remediation, small particle cleaning is not optional, it’s a critical step toward restoring a truly safe indoor environment.

The goal of Small Particle Cleaning is to create or most often restore an environment that is safe for medically sensitive individuals by reducing particle load to the lowest possible level. Small particle cleaning requires testing to prove medically sound conditions.

Pro Tip: Always ask if your remediation company includes third-party PRV testing.Pro Tip 2: Check for certification and proper training in medically sound protocols. Make sure the team understands cross-contamination prevention and can handle all in-house trades to avoid introducing new risks from outside vendors.

Question 47

What Happens if Mold is Left Untreated in a Home?

Accepted Answer

Leaving mold untreated can cause structural damage to your property and increase health risks for occupants. Mold can spread to walls, flooring, and HVAC systems, making remediation more complex and expensive later. For sensitive individuals, prolonged exposure can worsen conditions like CIRS, allergies, and respiratory issues.

Why Mold Must Be Addressed Immediately

Leaving mold untreated doesn’t just threaten your property, it can seriously impact health and safety. Mold often spreads beyond visible surfaces, infiltrating walls, flooring, insulation, and even HVAC systems. The longer it remains, the more extensive and costly the remediation becomes.

For sensitive individuals, prolonged exposure can worsen chronic conditions such as CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome), allergies, and respiratory disorders. Mold contamination is not just a nuisance, it’s an environmental health hazard.

Health Risks of Mold Exposure

Respiratory Impact:Mold spores and fragments can act as potent irritants, triggering or worsening asthma, chronic cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Those with compromised immune systems or pre-existing lung conditions face even greater risk.

Allergic Responses:Common reactions to mold include persistent sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy or watery eyes, and skin irritation. These symptoms often intensify indoors, especially in poorly ventilated spaces.Chronic and Systemic Effects:Long-term or repeated exposure to mold and its byproducts, such as mycotoxins and ultrafine particles, can lead to more serious health issues. These include chronic inflammation, neurological symptoms like brain fog, and immune dysregulation. In severe cases, mycotoxin exposure has been linked to organ damage and other debilitating health conditions.

Question 48

Do you offer CIRS-Safe Mold Remediation in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we are one of the few companies in California specializing in CIRS-safe remediation. Our San Diego based team follows advanced protocols to protect medically sensitive clients and restore safe indoor environments after mold or water damage.

Question 49

Flood Mitigation or Flood Prevention?

Accepted Answer

A reason for this confusion might be that for some flood mitigation is a constant action in some areas that have recurring flooding or active sump pumps to keep water out of their basements or other water sources. In essence, flood mitigation involves both preventive actions taken before a flood occurs and responsive strategies implemented during or after a flood event. Flood prevention involves preemptive measures to reduce the risk of flood damage. For instance, homeowners may install sump pumps or conduct annual inspections of vulnerable areas such as basements and chimneys. By regularly maintaining these systems and structures, individuals can help prevent water intrusion and minimize potential damage.

Question 50

What is Flood Prevention?

Accepted Answer

If homes have sump-pumps, basements, or chimneys it is important to check them annually, this is an example of flood prevention. The same time, during a flood state or heavy rains, you will want to also check your flood prevention techniques to make sure they are keeping the flooding out, any reinforcement efforts would be considered flood mitigation. However, flood prevention is not synonymous with flood mitigation, although the two are closely related. While flood prevention focuses on averting flood damage before it happens, flood mitigation involves actions taken during or after a flood to mitigate its impact. This can include reinforcing existing prevention techniques, such as installing additional barriers or improving drainage systems, to better withstand the force of floodwaters.

For example, during periods of heavy rainfall or when a flood is imminent, homeowners should assess the effectiveness of their flood prevention measures and make any necessary adjustments or reinforcements. By proactively addressing weak points in their defenses, they can enhance their resilience to flooding and minimize the potential for damage.

Question 51

What is the Difference Between Structural and Non-Structural Flood Mitigation?

Accepted Answer

Structural Mitigation of Flooding:

Often dams, levees, jetties, and the use of temporary sandbags to block or manipulate water direction, are all structural mitigation efforts. Often the state, city, and local community will have a flood mitigation strategy and use of flood drainage sewers and water runoff channels.

Non-Structural Mitigation of Flooding:

The people are the integral part of the non-structural elements of flood prevention. The communities, municipalities, and governments are the key to planning for natural flooding with planning, implementation of policy, stormwater management systems, system maintenance plans, and in depth community planning of codes for buildings and conducting business. Non-structural mitigation is preventing humans from being in bad flood states before we build a community or allow for new structural development.

Question 52

What are the mitigation strategies for floods?

Accepted Answer

Floods pose significant threats to communities worldwide, exacerbated by climate change-induced extreme weather events. Effective mitigation strategies are crucial to minimize flood damage and protect lives and property.

Mitigation Strategies:

Structural Measures: Dams, Floodwalls, levees, floodgates, temporary Sandbags, and elevation of structures are essential for reducing flood impact.

Non-structural Measures: Green infrastructure, property limitations, zoning regulations, and building codes help mitigate flood risk by relocating vulnerable populations and regulating development in flood-prone areas. Also, community planning and municipal stormwater management systems and maintenance plans could be included.

Flood Mitigation Planning:

Expert-driven flood mitigation plans, including floodplain mapping and forecasting, are essential to identify at-risk areas and prioritize mitigation efforts.

Community engagement is vital for developing tailored solutions and ensuring effective implementation.

Tools and Technologies:

Advanced tools like GIS systems enable effective flood management by analyzing map data, visualizing flood risk, and facilitating decision-making for mitigation strategies.

Flood Mitigation Services of Professionals

Mitigating flood risk requires a multifaceted approach encompassing structural and non-structural measures, expert planning, advanced tools, and community collaboration. By implementing comprehensive mitigation strategies, communities can enhance resilience and minimize the devastating impact of floods. After all prevention tactics and strategy have been implemented, you may still need flood mitigation services from professionals.

Question 53

What Are the Three Types of Mitigation Plans?

Accepted Answer

Diverting water using landscaping or natural elements to channel waterways or divert water away from sensitive areas like homes, roadways, or other structures.

Prevention with structural measures such as french drains, dams, retaining walls, barriers, jetties, and other measures to divert water from building up.

Emergency flood mitigation which includes using temporary sandbags as barriers, installing temporary dykes to prevent water from accessing homes or alleys that will lead to downstream flooding. Any tactic to remove flooding from a structure or roadway could be considered emergency flood mitigation, even temporary dams, french drain unclogging, or installing dykes.

Question 54

What is the best approach to reducing flood damage?

Accepted Answer

Strategically seek the vulnerabilities in any scenario that might be susceptible to flooding, as you discover these issues address them with water build up prevention, sealing, and hardening surrounding leak areas. Address any possible systems for supporting the riskier areas like a sump-pump system as a backup for basements and spaces near waterways that pose recurring flood threats.

Water sealing and enveloping the building with protection could also be a consistent start to reducing water damages. Also, in areas where flooding is common, think to elevate essential components of the home above water levels, for example electrical systems can be raised up to make basement or other outlets a little bit higher than normal.

Planning preventative measures and maintaining systems is essential to avoid unnecessary flooding. For example, many ways to prevent flooding is by maintaining French Drains, rain gutters, weather stripping, checking sump-pump systems, and other systems that prevent flooding.

Question 55

What are the three methods of flood control?

Accepted Answer

A large part of flood control is about knowing the environmental norms for an area and planning to control seasonal variations in flood water. So a large part of this planning would be about the landscaping and drainage. These landscaping and drainage methods include planning the right vegetation for retaining water and maintaining hillsides; gradually terracing hillside slopes to slow water flow downhill; and man made physical drainage of floodways such as french drains, dykes, dams, drainage canals, and floodways leading to larger public utility maintained sewerage systems.

Question 56

What plants help control flooding?

Accepted Answer

In southern california, most landscapes start with the lawn, but the best advice is to mix the terrain with a mix of naturally occurring wild vegetation from the native environment. Just like native grasses, native plants meant to grow in the southern California climate will grow better root networks that will help with water absorption. For grass suggestions for SoCal, drought tolerant grasses are also often preferred because they can tolerate various soil conditions, have many fibrous roots that grow quickly.

Grass suggestions: Zorro Annual Fescue, Vulpia Myuros Blando Brome, Bromus Mollis Cucamonga Brome, and Bromus Carinatus.

Often these grasses are chosen for revegetation of slopes that have in past experienced fires. If working to stabilize a property for flood or past fires, consider mixing the landscaping with various plant types, a mix of plant heights, and root depths.

Tree and Shrub Flood Prevention suggestions:

Drought Resistant Trees with SoCal roots: Coast Live Oaks, Quercus Agrifolia Redbuds, Cercis sp., Catalina Cherry, and Prunis Lyonii.

Shrubs and Ground Covering plants that impact Flood Prevention: Prostrate Myoporum, Myoporum Parviflorium Capeweed, Arctotheca Calendula, Cultivar “Twin Peaks” Baccharis Pilularis, Descanso Rock Rose, Cistus Crispus Periwinkle, Vinca sp., Trailing African Daisy, and Osteospermum Fruticosum.

Working with a landscaping professional is recommended to plan your drainage methods that will work with your terrain and the various plant needs of your property.

Question 57

What is one way to control flooding?

Accepted Answer

Call an emergency flood response team like Orange Restoration! If you are seeking the quickest way to solve your flood problem on the internet, you are better off getting a professional to step in and navigate the mitigation process.

Your insurance company advises to take immediate action to prevent loss or damages during a flood. Your procrastination will become a liability when dealing with the insurance company as they may claim your damage came from “seepage” also known as water damage that occurs over time. In most policies, the insured has an obligation to mitigate their loss in damages.

Take action by calling a professional who knows how to deal with insurance.

Question 58

What prevents flooding during heavy rain?

Accepted Answer

In the case of heavy rain, it is best to properly inspect gutters, french drains, sump-pump systems, downspouts,  and other established flood prevention systems already set up to insure they are ready for the heavy rain. In Emergency Flooding situations, often sand bags will be deployed by local municipalities and made available. Using anything like sandbags to divert water from entryways or sensitive areas can greatly reduce water damage from flooding.

Question 59

Why does my house keep flooding when it rains?

Accepted Answer

In Southern California, we do not often think about flooding due to rain, but it can happen especially due to our negligence or poor maintenance of flood prevention systems. Often flooding that reoccurs due to rain can be detected and prevented. When the heavy volume of the rain is upon your home’s exterior, it may impact the systems to fail. For example, a downspout could be poorly positioned to remove water from your roof, but when the water has no escape, the groundwater builds up and can cause flooding. Before heavy rainfall it is important to inspect drains, gutters, and other flood prevention systems to ensure they are in good conditions. Also, during the heavy rain you may want to observe the flooding area to see what is the culprit to the excessive water. Often rain gutters can be impacted by trees and the sheer weight of the water causing them to dump and not flow to the downspout drain. After noticing the problems with your flood prevention systems, get a professional to repair it! Also, it may be wise to check for mold by getting professional testing done.

Question 60

Do I really need mold remediation?

Accepted Answer

After a flood in a building or home, it's crucial to assess the extent of water damage and the potential for mold growth. Here are some factors to consider:

Duration of Moisture Exposure: Mold can begin to grow within 24-48 hours after a flood. If your home or business was flooded and remained wet for an extended period, there's a high likelihood of mold growth.

Extent of Flood Damage: If the floodwater was clean and quickly removed, and affected only a small area, you may be able to clean and dry the area yourself. However, if the flood water was contaminated or if the flooding was extensive, it's best to seek professional flood remediation services.

Hidden Mold: Mold often grows in hidden areas, such as behind walls, under flooring, and in air ducts. A professional mold inspection can identify hidden mold and ensure thorough remediation.

Preventive Measures: Even if you don't see visible mold growth, it's advisable to have your home inspected for mold after a flood to prevent future problems. Mold growth can be quite devastating for home values and for your health.

While not all floods require professional mold remediation, it's essential to assess the situation carefully and consider the factors mentioned above to determine the best course of action for your home and your family's health. Taking fast action is best as mold will rapidly begin to spread when moisture is present in your home.

Question 61

How do I protect my house from heavy rain?

Accepted Answer

Protecting your house from heavy rain involves several preventive measures and maintenance tasks. Here are some steps you can take:

Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear: Regularly clean gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. Remove leaves, debris, and any blockages that could prevent water from flowing freely away from your house.

Extend Downspouts Away from the House: Use downspout extensions or splash blocks to direct water at least 3-4 feet away from your home's foundation to prevent water from pooling around the foundation. Also, consider french drain systems to move water away from areas that may be at higher risk for flooding.

Inspect and Maintain Roof: Regularly inspect your roof for damaged or missing shingles, and repair any issues promptly to prevent water from leaking into your home. Water coming from above is the worst for damages.

Check Seals and Caulking: Inspect seals around windows, doors, and vents, and reapply caulk as needed to prevent water from seeping into your home. Weather stripping is highly effective at stopping water damage around windows.

Grade the Land Around Your House: Ensure that the ground slopes away from your house to prevent water from pooling around the foundation. Add soil as needed to create a slope away from the house.

Install a Sump Pump: Consider installing a sump pump in your basement or crawl space to remove excess water and prevent flooding during heavy rain.

Inspect Foundation for Cracks: Regularly inspect your foundation for cracks or gaps, and seal them with waterproofing sealant to prevent water from entering your foundation.

Install Flood Barriers or Sandbags: If you live in an area prone to flooding, consider installing flood barriers or using sandbags to redirect water away from your home.

By taking these preventive measures and regularly maintaining your home, you can help protect it from water damage during heavy rain and reduce the risk of water infiltration and flooding.

Question 62

What is the #1 cause of basement flooding?

Accepted Answer

Often basements are where we will find the hot water tank, the sump pump, and the main water supply line. If any number of problems occurs, like a burst pipe, the basement can easily flood.

If you have a basement, you should consider flood proofing it and work to maintain the plumbing as a basement flood can be quite costly.

Question 63

Why is water coming through my walls after rain?

Accepted Answer

You are experiencing some sort of flooding. It is likely that you have a roof leak or a rain gutter problem that is leading water to inside your home’s walls and/or the space above your head. It is important you call a flood mitigation expert as soon as possible to help you figure out the issue and put a stop to the leak.

Question 64

How do I divert water from my house on a slope?

Accepted Answer

If your home is on a slope, you will want to create grading to keep the water moving away from the foundation. Also consider installing a French Drain system as with a slope you can experience a great amount of water accumulation very rapidly, and keeping this water away from your home is important to avoiding flood or water damages.

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