First, let's go over a quick review of what mold is. Every kind of mold is a fungus, just like mushrooms and lichens, for example. The mold that is dangerous to you and your family is rare in the fungi kingdom, meaning most kinds you find in your house or business aren't dangerous. However, some are dangerous, so any mold in your home or business must be mitigated and completely removed.
Government experts recommend that you reach out to a who repairs mold damage Ashland, KY company for help if the mold you discover takes up more than about 36 square inches. When you see any sizable amount of mold growth, though, it's smart to reach out for help from mold damage cleanup. The best mold removal services can help you test for hidden mold in other places around the structure using tools such as hygrometers, thermometers, laboratory-grade mold test procedures and more.
Before you contact mold damage repair technicians, the first step is to prevent the mold from growing. Do this by turning off any HVAC systems. Next, work to stop the moisture source that brought the mold. For example, clear standing water and fix plumbing problems if you can. Next, stop it from spreading. You could tape off the room with disposable tarps, for example.
Now, decide whether to get professional help. Consider not only the mold area, but also any aggravating health problems you have. People who already have trouble breathing, for example, should not perform mold removal activities.
Once you've made the decision, there are important steps to take in either direction. If you're doing the work, start with gathering proper equipment and clothing. You'll need non-ventilated goggles, coveralls that are easy to launder and that cover your arms and legs, a mold-safe mask and mold-approved gloves that reach at least to your forearms. You will also want new disposable rags and disposable plastic sheeting that will help catch mold spores as you remove them. Health officials agree that you should never leave drywall that has mold on it anywhere you find it because it can't be cleaned thoroughly. A note on cleaning with bleach: Skip it. Any bleach doesn't work as well other alternatives and often doesn't kill mold growth and all its spores completely. Bleach-based cleaners is bad to breathe, especially if it's ever mixed with ammonia-based cleaners. Find better alternatives at most big box stores.
Chances are that if you're worried enough about mold damage to look for solutions on the web, you will want certified a professional mold removal service. For example, don't hire a mitigation service focused on humid areas.
Check credentials before you hire a mold damage cleanup service. The State Office of Consumer Protection is a good place to begin, and you should check for approval by groups such as as the Contractor Connection, Restoration Industry Association and the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration.
You need to clean up any mold you come across to stop further harm, and do it right away. If you don't, mold damage will keep eating on your home or business and will destroy your possessions. Some molds, those that release mycotoxins, can also cause major health risks ranging from brain damage. Mold can be particularly dangerous for infants, children, and anyone with a compromised immune system such as people with AIDS/HIV or lupus.
The ideal way to clean up your mold growth is to get mold damage help. Don't hesitate.