First, let's go over a quick review of mold. All molds are fungi, just like mushrooms and lichens, for example. The mold that is toxic to you and your family is rare in the fungi world, meaning most kinds you find in your house or business aren't harmful. However, some are dangerous, so any mold in your home or business must be cleaned up and completely removed.
Government experts recommend that you reach out to a black mold removal service Springfield MO company for assistance if the mold you discover takes up more than 9 square feet. When you see any large mold growth, though, it's a good idea to call for help from mold damage cleanup. Certified technicians can help you make sure there is no hidden mold in other spots around the house using tools such as temperature sensors, moisture detectors and more.
Before you contact mold cleanup specialists, the first step is to stop the mold from growing. Do this by turning off any ventilation. Then, work to halt the dripping or condensation that supplied the mold in the first place. Make sure damaged roofs are no longer getting into your attic and stop the flow of any rainwater that has penetrated your basement. Then, stop it from spreading. You might tape off the area with plastic sheeting, for example.
Now, you're ready to figure out if you need to get professional help. Consider not only the mold area, but also any aggravating health issues you have. People who already struggle to breathe, for instance, should not perform mold cleanup activities.
Once you've decided, there are important things to do. If you're doing the work, start with gathering the right equipment and clothing. You'll need non-ventilated goggles, clothing items 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 dedicated rags and a disposable tarp or two that will help catch mold spores as you remove them. Experts agree that you should never leave moldy and unpainted drywall anywhere you find it because it can't be cleaned well enough. Just don't clean with bleach, especially if you're dealing with a serious mold repair situation. It's mostly ineffective for soft surfaces, afterall, and only partially effective on hard surfaces. It's also dangerous because it can cause fumes and should never be mixed with ammonia-based cleaners such as window cleaner.
Chances are that if you're worried enough about mold damage to do online research, you will want a professional mold removal service. For example, don't select a mitigation service focused on humid areas.
Check credentials before you hire a mold removal company. The State Business Licensing Division is a good place to get started, and you can check for approval by groups such as as the Contractor Connection, Restoration Industry Association and the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration.
Mold left to grow sends off spores, which act like seeds and can harm your possessions in short order. If not, harmful mold will keep eating on your home or business and will destroy your possessions.
The smartest way to solve your mold damage is to get mold damage help. Don't hesitate.