First, let's go over a quick primer on what mold is. All molds are fungi, and share biology with mushrooms and athlete's foot, for example. The mold that is toxic to humans is uncommon in the fungus world, meaning most kinds you find in your house or business aren't harmful. However, some are dangerous, so any mold you find indoors must be cleaned up and completely removed.
The rule of thumb is to contact a black mold remediation Georgetown DE company to clean up the mold if it is more than 3 square feet.. When you see any frightening amount of mold growth, though, it's wise to reach out for cleanup assistance from mold damage cleanup. The best mold removal services can help you make sure there is no mold spots in other places around the structure using tools such as temperature sensors, moisture detectors and more.
Before you contact mold damage repair technicians, the first step is to stop the mold from growing. Do this by turning off any HVAC systems. Then, work to stop the dripping or condensation that supplied the mold in the first place. For example, fix leaky faucets or dry out standing water if you can. The next step is to contain the mold in as small an area as possible. You could tape off the room with plastic sheeting, for example.
Should you get a mold removal service to help or can you do it by yourself? Beyond thinking about the magnitude of the problem, think about any exacerbating health concerns you may have that make you susceptible to becoming sick.
Once you've made the decision, there are vital things to do in either direction. If you're doing the work, begin with gathering proper safety gear and cleaning supplies. You'll need non-ventilated goggles, clothing items that are easy to launder and that cover your arms and legs, and mold-safe masks and gloves. You should also get new disposable sponges and disposable plastic sheeting that will help catch mold spores as you remove them. Mold removal specialists agree that you should not leave drywall that has mold on it anywhere you find it because it can't be cleaned well enough. A note on cleaning with bleach: Skip it. Chlorine bleach is less effective than other alternatives and often doesn't kill mold. Most bleach is bad to breathe, especially if it's ever mixed with ammonia-based cleaners. Ask for better cleaners at most big box stores.
Chances are that if you're concerned enough about mold problems to do online research, you need a professional mold removal service. If you choose to hire a mold mitigation company, find one in your city because various molds grow in different geographic locations and you need experts who know the perfect mold damage cleanup techniques to remove the ones you located in your home or business. The more local, the better.
Check licensing and certifications before you hire a mold damage cleanup service. The State Office of Consumer Protection is a good place to begin, and you can check for affiliations such as as the Restoration Industry Association, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration and Contractor Connection.
Mold damage left to grow sends off spores, which act like seeds and can cause damage to spread in short order. If you don't, parasitic fungi will keep eating on your home or business and will destroy your things.
The smartest way to handle your mold damage is to get mold removal assistance. Don't delay.