First, let's go over a quick primer on mold. 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 relatively uncommon in the fungus world, meaning most kinds you find in your house or business aren't dangerous. However, some toxic molds are dangerous, so any mold you find indoors must be cleaned up and completely removed.
Government experts recommend that you call a black mold remediation Alexandria VA company for assistance if the mold growth takes up more than about 9 square feet. If you see mold growth, there is probably more behind walls, in attics and elsewhere.
Before you contact mold removal services, the first step is to prevent the mold from growing. Do this by turning off any HVAC systems. Next, work to halt the dripping or condensation that supplied the mold in the first place. For example, clear standing water and fix plumbing problems if you can. Next, stop it from spreading. You might tape off the room with plastic sheeting, for instance.
Now, you're ready to decide if you need to get mold damage removal help. Think about not only the damaged area, but also any aggravating health issues you may have. People who already struggle to breathe, for example, should not perform mold removal activities.
Once you've decided, there are important things to do. To complete the cleanup yourself, pick up items such as gloves that reach your forearms, full-coverage clothing, non-ventilated eye protection and approved mold masks. You might also need disposable plastic sheeting and tools to cut out and replace drywall, if that's where you found the mold. Experts agree that you should never leave moldy and unpainted drywall anywhere you find it because it can't be cleaned thoroughly. A note on cleaning with bleach: Don't. Chlorine bleach is less effective than other detergents and often doesn't remediate mold thoroughly. Most bleach is bad to breathe, particularly if it's ever mixed with ammonia-based cleaners. Ask for better alternatives at most big box stores.
If you're concerned enough about mold problems to research, you will want a professional mold removal service. If you choose to hire a mold removal expert, look for one local to your area because different kinds of mold thrive in different areas and you need experts who know the perfect mold damage repair techniques to clean up what you have located in your home or business. The closer to home, the better.
Before you schedule an appointment with anyone, make sure that they are certified properly and that they are approved by watchdogs such as the Contractor Connection, Restoration Industry Association and the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration. The State Office of Consumer Protection is a good place to start, 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 might also make sure the company knows and follows federal mold cleanup recommendations whether your mold is in a business or a residence.
You need to clean up any mold growth you come across to stop further toxicity risk, and do it now. If not, mold growths will keep eating on your home or business and can ruin your things. Some types of mold, those that release toxic spores, can also cause major health problems ranging from neurological damage to breathing problems and mold-related infections and generally poor health. Mold in the environment can be especially dangerous for babies and kinds
The safest way to handle your mold growth is to get professional mold damage assistance. Don't wait another minute.