Find the Best Mold Removal in Omaha, NE

What causes mold in Omaha?

Mold thrives in humid conditions, which can be caused by weather, leaking pipes or poor ventilation.

Omaha experiences all four seasons and weather that quickly changes from one extreme to another, which presents many opportunities for mold growth. In the winter, frozen pipes can cause water leaks that lead to mold. When the snow melts and rain showers start in the spring, water can seep into your foundation and create humid conditions in basements, crawlspaces, windows and walls.

During the summer, air conditioning blockages lead to condensation collecting in poorly insulated areas and on single-pane windows. Omaha’s severe weather also causes roof damage, resulting in leaks that lead to mold in attics and insulation.

Other common causes of mold growth include unventilated clothes dryers, poor bathroom ventilation and flooding. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more information on mold prevention.

How to tell if you have a mold problem in Omaha

Not all mold is visible — other warning signs to look for include:

• A musty or rotten smell
• Water stains or discoloration on walls, floors or ceilings
• Cracked, bubbling or damaged paint or wallpaper
• Condensation on windows, walls or pipes
• Rusting indoor pipes

While mold can grow anywhere, certain areas of your home are more prone to mold infestations. Common problem spots include attics, basements, poorly ventilated bathrooms and utility rooms, carpets, air ducts, wall surfaces and the insulation behind walls.

Mold is visibly different than mildew, which also grows in humid conditions. Mildew grows on the surface in damp areas and is usually gray or silver with a fluffy texture. Mold is typically black or green and has a slimy or fuzzy texture.

Health problems caused by mold in Omaha

If left untreated, mold can have a serious effect on the health of you and your family. Mold spores in your home reduce air quality and can lead to:

• Allergies
• Eye irritation
• Sneezing
• Breathing problems
• Long-term diseases

All mold can cause health problems, but black mold, also known as toxic mold, is especially hazardous and can lead to respiratory illness, bleeding from your lungs and nose, persistent headaches and vomiting.

If you suspect you have black mold, you should immediately have a professional perform mold testing. Black mold requires isolation and careful removal, which involves specialized equipment and materials. It’s also a good idea to find temporary accommodations until the mold is removed to prevent further health problems.

How much does mold removal cost in Omaha?

On average, mold removal in Omaha costs $1,560, but the price varies greatly and can rise to $30,000 for severe whole-house infestations. The factors affecting the price of mold removal in Omaha are:

• The size of the affected area and amount of growth
• The location and accessibility of the affected area
• Whether special removal methods are needed for toxic mold or cleaning air ducts
• If drywall, wooden walls or concrete must be replaced
• Whether improvements to prevent future growth, such as dehumidifiers or sealing the foundation, are necessary

The most common mold remediation services in Omaha are mold containment and removal, sump pump system installation, air duct cleaning and odor removal. Most companies in Omaha charge by square footage of the affected area for mold removal. Many companies charge a flat rate for additional required services, including sealing your home’s foundation or drywall repair.

Homeowners insurance only covers mold damage when it’s caused by a covered peril, such as burst pipes or hail damage that allows water into your home. Standard homeowners policies usually don’t cover damage from high humidity, natural flooding or preventable water leaks.

Choosing a mold removal company in Omaha

Since Nebraska does not regulate mold remediation, It’s difficult to know what to look for when hiring a service. Many companies certify their employees with professional organizations that guarantee a standard of quality. These organizations include:

• The National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors (NORMI)
• The National Association of Mold Professionals (NAMP)
• The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)

Customer reviews are an excellent source of information when researching businesses — if a mold removal service consistently receives poor reviews, you’re likely to have an unpleasant experience working with the company. When you’re ready to get a quote or more information about mold removal in Omaha, here are some questions you should ask:

• How many years of experience do you have with mold remediation?
• What is your mold removal process?
• How do you contain the mold when removing it?
• Can you help prevent future mold growth?
• Do you guarantee your work?

While it’s essential to start mold remediation as quickly as possible to prevent further growth and health issues, taking these steps helps ensure the company you hire is professional, thorough and removes the mold correctly.