First, let's go over a quick review of mold. All molds are fungi, and share biology with mushrooms and athlete's foot, for example. The mold that is dangerous to humans is relatively rare in the fungi kingdom, meaning most kinds aren't dangerous. However, some toxic molds 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 mold removal alexandria va company for cleanup help if the mold you discover takes up more than 3 square feet. If you see mold, there is probably more behind walls, in attics and elsewhere.
Before you contact mold cleanup specialists, the first step is to stop the mold from growing. Do this by turning off any ventilation. Next, work to halt the dripping or condensation that brought the mold in the first place. For example, clear standing water and fix plumbing problems if you can. The next step is to contain the mold. You might block off the area in question with disposable tarps, for example.
Now, you're ready to decide if you need to get mold damage removal help. Think about not only the damaged area, but also any exacerbating health problems you have. Allergy or asthma sufferers who have trouble breathing, for instance, should not perform mold cleanup activities.
Once you've decided, there are vital things to do in either direction. To finish the mold removal yourself, purchase items such as gloves that reach your forearms, full-coverage clothing, non-ventilated 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. Health officials agree that you should never leave moldy and unpainted drywall anywhere you find it because it can't be cleaned thoroughly. A note on cleaning with bleach: Skip it. Chlorine bleach doesn't work as well other cleaners and often doesn't kill mold growth and all its spores completely. Bleach-based cleaners also puts off toxic fumes, particularly if it's ever mixed with substances such as Windex, which contains ammonia. Find better cleaners at most big box stores.
Chances are that if you're worried enough about mold problems to do online research, you will want certified a professional mold removal company. It is highly recommended that you find these companies in your area, so contact if you live there. Doing this will ensure that you find a company with specific experience.
Before you hire anyone, make sure that they are licensed and registered properly and that they are certified by groups such as the Restoration Industry Association, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration and Contractor Connection. 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 fungal growth you find to prevent further toxicity risk, and do it right away. If not, mold damage will continue to feast on your structure and can destroy your things.
The best way to handle your mold growth is to get professional mold removal help. Don't wait another minute.