First, let's go over a quick primer on what mold is. All molds are fungi, just like mushrooms and lichens, for example. The mold that is toxic to humans is rare in the fungi world, meaning most kinds you find in your house or business 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 contact a mold remediation services Fairfax VA company for cleanup help if the smelly mold takes up more than 3 square feet. When you see any large mold growth, though, it's smart to reach out for cleanup assistance from mold damage cleanup. Certified technicians can help you make sure there is no hidden mold in other places around the structure using tools such as hygrometers, thermometers, laboratory-grade mold test procedures and more.
Before you contact mold cleanup specialists, the first step is to stop the mold from growing. Turn off any ventilation. Then, work to stop the moisture source that supplied the mold. Make sure damaged roofs are no longer flowing into your house or business and restrict the flow of any moisture that has seeped into your basement. The next step is to contain the problem. You might tape off the room with disposable tarps, for instance.
Next, decide whether to get professional help. Think about not only the mold area, but also any aggravating health issues you have. Allergy or asthma sufferers who struggle to breathe, for example, should avoid mold mitigation activities.
Once you've decided, there are important things to do in either direction. If you're doing the work, start with gathering proper safety gear and cleaning supplies. You'll need non-ventilated goggles, clothing items that are easy to clean and that cover your arms and legs, and mold-safe masks and gloves. You will also want new disposable rags and a disposable tarp or two that can help trap the mold you get off. Mold removal specialists agree that you should not leave moldy and unpainted drywall anywhere because it can't be cleaned thoroughly. Whatever you do, don't clean with bleach, especially if you're dealing with a substantial mold damage situation. It's mostly ineffective for any porous surfaces, and only partially effective on hard ones. It's also potentially toxic because it can release fumes and should never be mixed with ammonia-based cleaners such as window cleaner.
Chances are that if you're concerned enough about mold problems to look for solutions on the web, you will want a professional mold removal company. If you choose to hire a mold mitigation company, find one in your area because various molds grow in different areas and you need technicians who know the best mold damage cleanup techniques to clean up the ones you came upon in your indoor environment. The more local, the better.
Check licensing and certifications before you hire a mold damage cleanup service. You may also make sure the company knows and follows federal mold cleanup recommendations whether your mold is in a business or a residence.
You need to remove any mold growth you come across to prevent further mold damage, and do it right away. If you don't, mold damage will keep eating on your structure and can destroy your possessions.
The ideal way to solve your mold damage is to get mold removal assistance. Don't hesitate.