How Much Does Mold Remediation Cost in an Attic? 2024 Price Guide

Some attic spaces are prone to mold because moisture can build up due to a leaky roof or space around the windows. This problem can grow quickly because most people don’t inspect the attic as frequently as other parts of the home because they don’t spend much time there. However, once mold gets started, it can be difficult to control, leading many people to wonder how much mold remediation costs in an attic. The short answer is that it will usually cost $350–$2,000, depending on several factors. Keep reading as we explain what can affect the cost of removing mold from this area of the home and how it compares to other areas.

The Importance of Mold Remediation

Mold is quite common worldwide, and many people have it growing in their homes. There are many varieties, and some are more dangerous than others, like black mold. Many people have some mold growing on damp walls or bathroom fixtures. However, allowing it to get out of hand can lead to several health issues.

Difficulty Breathing

Mold can lead to difficulty breathing if it gets out of hand. The mold spores can enter your air passageways and irritate the nose, throat, and lungs, leading to swelling. It is especially problematic for people with pre-existing conditions like asthma or COPD¹. Some molds even produce harmful mycotoxins that can lead to difficulty breathing, wheezing, and sinus congestion.

Allergic Reactions

If you suffer from seasonal allergies, the mold in your home can also trigger the onset of allergies¹, with symptoms that include sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, and even dry skin.

Aspergillosis

The common Aspergillus mold variety in your home can lead to aspergillosis¹, a condition that affects the nose or lungs of a victim and can also cause breathing trouble. It usually affects people with a weakened immune system or pre-existing lung disease, but it’s best to remove the mold if you see it.

How Much Does Mold Remediation Cost?

Mold remediation typically costs $15–$30 per square foot, and most attics cost $350–$4,000, averaging around $2,000. The attic can cost less than other areas of the home because it is usually an open area with easy access to the mold, which reduces labor and lowers costs. However, you might also need to fix problems like a leaky roof or drafty window, which will cost money. Poor lighting and ventilation will make the job harder and more expensive.

Cost of Removing Mold in the Attic Compared to Other Parts of the Home

Additional Costs to Anticipate

Removing the mold from your home can lead to several additional costs. For example, due to contamination, you will need to pay for any items and materials that you need to replace, including drywall and insulation. You will also need to dispose of the infected materials and paint and clean up the area after the mold removal project is finished, which will likely add a cost of $1,000–$2,000.

How Often Should I Inspect for Mold?

We recommend inspecting your home at least once per year to ensure that there is no mold present that can affect your health, especially if you have children, pets, or a pre-existing condition that can make breathing difficult. Some HVAC companies will offer mold inspection, and there are even mold inspection companies that can help for a small fee. However, the easiest way to inspect your home for mold is to use a home test kit that you can purchase from your favorite home improvement center or online. These kits usually cost $8–$50 and include step-by-step instructions for inspecting your home for different types of mold.

Can I Remove the Mold Myself?

The United States Environmental Protection Agency states that a homeowner can tackle a mold project if the infected area is less than 10 square feet. However, it recommends hiring professional help for any larger project. You should also leave any black mold to the professionals because it can be more dangerous to your health.

What to Do to Avoid Needing Mold Remediation?

We recommend being on a constant lookout for mold growth in your home. You can often see it on the wall, where it will look like white, green, or black soot or dirt. Many people also notice a moldy or musty scent when mold is nearby, and you will frequently see it near rusty pipes. Mold will be common in any part of the house that has water damage from flooding or bad pipes.

Conclusion

Most people can expect to spend $350–$4,000 to remove the mold from the attic, with the average being around $2,000. Additional costs can include buying the materials that you need to replace, disposing of the moldy materials, painting, and cleaning up. You may also need to repair any damage to the home that is allowing moisture in and creating the mold problem. Keep a constant watch for mold and purchase a test once per year so if a mold problem does develop, you can contain it before it gets larger than 10 square feet, requiring you to call the professionals.

Featured Image Credit By: Heiko Kueverling, Shutterstock