Steps to Take Following A Mold Infestation. Contact a Restoration Business
First, let's go over a quick primer on mold. All molds are fungi, just like mushrooms and athlete's foot, for example. The mold that is toxic to humans is uncommon in the fungi world, meaning most kinds you find in your house or business 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 call a black mold remediation Lithia Springs GA company for assistance if the smelly mold takes up more than 3 square feet. When you see any sizable amount of mold growth, though, it's smart to call for help from professional 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 prevent the mold from getting worse. Turn off any ventilation. Next, work to stop the dripping or condensation that supplied 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 moisture that has penetrated your basement. Next, stop it from spreading. You might tape off the area in question with disposable tarps, for instance.
Now, you're ready to figure out whether to get professional help. Think about not only the mold area, but also any aggravating health problems you may have. Allergy or asthma sufferers who have trouble breathing, for instance, should not perform mold removal activities.
Once you've selected a solution, there are vital things to do in either direction. If you're going at it alone, get started with gathering proper equipment and clothing. 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 dedicated sponges and a disposable tarp or two that can help catch mold spores as you remove them. Mold removal specialists agree that you should not leave unpainted drywall that is moldy anywhere because it can't be cleaned thoroughly. A note on cleaning with bleach: Skip it. Bleach doesn't work as well other cleaners and often doesn't kill mold and all its spores completely. Most bleach is also toxic and can cause dangerous chemical fumes, particularly if it's ever mixed with ammonia-based cleaners. Find better cleaners at most big box stores.
Chances are that if you're concerned enough about mold problems to research, you need mold removal technicians service. It is best if you find these companies in your geographic location, so call for if you live there. This will make certain that you hire technicians with enough experience.
Before you hire anyone, make sure that they are licensed and registered properly and that they are approved by watchdogs such as the Contractor Connection, Restoration Industry Association and the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration.
Mold left to grow releases spores, which act like seeds and can cause damage to spread rapidly. If not, harmful mold will continue to feast on your structure and can destroy your things.
The ideal way to clean up your mold growth is to get professional mold damage cleanup assistance. Don't wait another minute.