First, let's go over a quick review of what mold is. All molds are fungi, and share biology with mushrooms and lichens, for example. The mold that is toxic to people is uncommon in the fungus world, meaning most kinds aren't dangerous. However, some toxic molds are dangerous, so any mold in your home or business must be mitigated and completely removed.
Government experts recommend that you contact a black mold remediation Plymouth MN company for help if the mold you discover takes up more than 36 square inches. When you see any big mold growth, however, it's smart to reach out for help from mold damage cleanup. The best mold removal services can help you make sure there is no mold spots in other places around the house using tools such as temperature sensors, moisture detectors and more.
Before you contact mold cleanup specialists, the first step is to prevent the mold from getting worse. Do this by turning off any ventilation. Then, work to stop the dripping or condensation that brought the mold in the first place. For instance, make sure damaged roofs are no longer getting into your attic and restrict the flow of any water that has penetrated your basement. The next step is to contain the problem. You could tape off the area with disposable tarps, for example.
Should you get a mold removal company to help or can you finish it on your own? Beyond pondering the extent of the damage, think about any aggravating health issues that make you prone to becoming sick.
Once you've selected a solution, there are vital things to do in either direction. To do the mold removal damage yourself, gather items such as gloves that reach your forearms, washable coveralls, sealed goggles and approved mold masks. You will also need disposable plastic sheeting and tools to cut out and replace drywall, if that's where you found the mold. Mold removal specialists agree that you should never leave unpainted drywall that is moldy anywhere because it can't be cleaned well enough. A note on cleaning with bleach: Don't. Chlorine bleach is less effective than other cleaners and often doesn't remediate mold thoroughly and all its spores completely. Bleach-based cleaners also puts off toxic fumes, particularly if it's ever mixed with ammonia-based cleaners. You can get better cleaners at most big box stores.
Chances are that if you're worried enough about mold damage to look for solutions on the web, you need certified a professional mold removal service. If you choose to hire a mold mitigation company, look for one local to your area because different kinds of mold grow in different geographic locations and you need people who know the ideal mold damage repair techniques to remove the ones you found in your indoor environment. The more local, the better.
Before you schedule an appointment with any expert, check that they are certified properly and that they are certified by watchdogs such as the Contractor Connection, Restoration Industry Association and the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration. The State Business Licensing Division is a good place to start, and you can check for affiliations such as as the Contractor Connection, Restoration Industry Association and the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration. You can also make sure the company knows and follows federal mold cleanup recommendations whether your mold is in a business or a residence.
You should mitigate any mold growth you find to stop further toxicity risk, and do it now. If you don't, mold damage will continue to feast on your structure and can ruin your things. Some molds, those that release mycotoxins, can also cause sever health risks ranging from neurological damage to breathing problems and mold-related illnesses and ongoing ill health. Mycotoxins 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 handle your mold damage is to get mold removal help. Don't wait another minute.