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 relatively rare in the fungus world, meaning most kinds aren't harmful. However, some molds 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 mold remediation services Beaufort SC company for help if the mold growth takes up more than about 3 square feet. When you see any frightening amount of mold growth, though, it's a good idea to call for help from mold removal services. They can help you make sure there is no hidden mold in other spots around the house using tools such as hygrometers, thermometers, laboratory-grade mold test procedures and more.
Before you contact mold cleanup specialists, the first step is to stop the mold from getting worse. Do this by turning off any ventilation. Then, work to halt the dripping or condensation that supplied the mold. For instance, make sure roof leaks are no longer dripping into your house or business and staunch the flow of any rainwater that has gotten into your basement. Then, contain the problem. You might block off the room with disposable tarps, for instance.
Should you get a mold mitigation company to help or can you do it on your own? Beyond considering the magnitude of the problem, think about any exacerbating health issues that make you prone to becoming sick.
Once you've made the decision, there are important steps to take in either direction. If you're performing the cleanup, begin with gathering the right safety gear and cleaning supplies. You'll need non-ventilated goggles, coveralls that are easy to clean and that cover your arms and legs, a mold-safe mask and mold-approved gloves that reach at least to your forearms. You should also get dedicated rags and disposable plastic sheeting that will help catch mold spores as you remove them. Mold removal specialists agree that you should never leave moldy and unpainted drywall anywhere you find it because it can't be cleaned well enough. A note on cleaning with bleach: Don't. Bleach is less effective than other cleaners and often doesn't kill mold. Bleach is also toxic and can cause dangerous chemical fumes, particularly if it's ever mixed with ammonia-based cleaners. You can get better alternatives at the hardware store.
Chances are that if you're concerned enough about mold problems to look for solutions on the web, you need certified mold removal technicians company. Don't select a company focused in humid climates.
Check licensing and certifications before you hire a mold removal company. The State Business Licensing Division is a good place to get started, and you should check for approval by groups such as as the Restoration Industry Association, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration and Contractor Connection.
You need to mitigate any fungal growth you find to stop further toxicity risk, and do it right away. If you don't, parasitic fungi will keep eating on your home or business and will ruin your possessions. Some types of mold, those that release mycotoxins, can also cause sever health problems ranging from neurological damage to breathing problems and mold-related illnesses and ongoing ill health. Mold can be especially dangerous for infants, children, and anyone with a compromised immune system such as people with AIDS/HIV or lupus.
The smartest way to mitigate your mold damage is to get mold removal assistance. Don't delay.