First, let's go over a quick primer on what mold is. Every kind of mold is a fungus, and share biology with mushrooms and lichens, for example. The mold that is toxic to people is rare 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 you find indoors must be mitigated and completely removed.
You should think about contacting these mold remediation contractor Arlington VA companies even if you see less mold than that. When you see any big amount of mold growth, however, it's a good idea to call for help from mold removal services. They can help you test for mold spots in other spots around the house 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 getting worse. Do this by turning off any HVAC systems. Then, work to halt the moisture source that supplied the mold in the first place. Make sure damaged roofs are no longer getting into your attic and restrict the flow of any rainwater that has penetrated your basement. The next step is to contain the mold. You might block off the area with plastic sheeting, for example.
Now, you're ready to figure out if you need to get mold damage removal help. Consider not only the damaged area, but also any exacerbating health problems you have. Allergy or asthma sufferers who struggle to breathe, for example, should avoid mold removal activities.
Once you've decided, there are important steps to take in either direction. To do the mold removal yourself, purchase items such as long mold-approved gloves, coveralls and a mold-safe mask and a pair of goggles. You could also need a throwaway tarp and a saw to cut out and replace drywall, if that's where you found the mold. Health officials agree that you should never leave unpainted drywall that is moldy anywhere you find it because it can't be cleaned well enough. A note on cleaning with bleach: Don't. Chlorine bleach doesn't work as well other cleaners and often doesn't kill mold growth. Bleach-based cleaners also puts off toxic fumes, particularly if it's ever mixed with ammonia, a common ingredient in many household cleaners . Find better alternatives at the hardware store.
If you're worried enough about mold problems to look for solutions on the web, you need a professional mold removal company. For example, don't hire a mitigation service focused on humid areas.
Before you hire any company, make sure that they are certified properly and that they are certified by watchdogs such as the Restoration Industry Association, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration and Contractor Connection.
You should mitigate any mold growth you come across to stop further toxicity risk, and do it right away. If not, harmful mold will continue to feast on your home or business and can ruin your possessions.
The safest way to clean up your mold growth is to get mold removal help. Don't wait another minute.