First, let's go over a quick review of what mold is. Every kind of mold is a fungus, and share biology with mushrooms and athlete's foot, for example. The mold that is dangerous to you and your family is relatively uncommon in the fungi world, meaning most kinds aren't dangerous. However, some are dangerous, so any mold in your home or business must be mitigated and completely removed.
Government experts recommend that you call a emergency mold remediation service long beach ca company for help if the mold growth takes up more than about 3 square feet. This is because if you see mold growth, there is probably more trapped in drywall and crevices and elsewhere.
Before you contact mold removal services, the first step is to stop the mold from getting worse. Do this by turning off any ventilation. Next, work to stop the moisture source that brought the mold. For example, clear standing water and fix plumbing problems if you can. The next step is to contain the problem in as small an area as possible. You could block off the room with plastic sheeting, for instance.
Should you get a mold removal service to help or can you do the cleanup on your own? Beyond pondering the size of the problem, think about any exacerbating health issues you may have that make you prone to becoming sick.
Once you've made the decision, there are important things to do in either direction. To complete the cleanup yourself, purchase supplies such as long mold-approved gloves, coveralls and a mold-safe mask and a pair of goggles. You might also need something to trap mold from reaching the floor and a saw to fix drywall, if that's where you found the mold. Health officials agree that you should never leave drywall that has mold on it anywhere you find it because it can't be cleaned thoroughly.
Chances are that if you're concerned enough about mold problems to do online research, you need certified a professional mold removal company. If you choose to hire a mold removal expert, find one in your area because various molds thrive in different areas and you need experts who know the perfect mold damage mitigation techniques to clean up the ones you came upon in your home or business. The more local, the better.
Check licensing and certifications before you hire a mold damage cleanup service. The State Office of Consumer Protection is a good place to get started, and you should check for approval by groups such as 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 need to remove any fungal growth you come across to prevent further harm, and do it right away. If not, parasitic fungi will continue to feast on your structure and can ruin your things. Some types of mold, those that release toxic spores, can also cause sever health risks ranging from brain damage. Mold in the environment can be especially dangerous for infants, children, and anyone with a compromised immune system such as people with AIDS/HIV or lupus.
The safest way to clean up your mold problem is to get professional mold damage cleanup assistance. Don't delay.