First, let's go over a quick primer on mold. Every kind of mold is a fungus, just like mushrooms and lichens, for example. The mold that is dangerous to you and your family is relatively uncommon in the fungi world, meaning most kinds you find in your house or business aren't dangerous. However, some molds are dangerous, so any mold you find indoors must be cleaned up and completely removed.
Government experts recommend that you call a black mold remediation Winston Salem NC company for cleanup help if the smelly mold takes up more than about 36 square inches. This is because if you see mold growth, there is probably hidden mold trapped in drywall and crevices and elsewhere.
Before you contact mold removal services, the first step is to stop the mold from getting worse. Turn off any HVAC systems. Then, work to halt the dripping or condensation that supplied the mold in the first place. Make sure damaged roofs are no longer flowing into your house or business and staunch the flow of any rainwater that has seeped into your basement. The next step is to contain the problem in as small an area as possible. You might block off the area in question with disposable tarps, for instance.
Now, you're ready to decide if you need to get mold damage removal 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 example, should avoid mold cleanup activities.
Once you've made the decision, there are important things to do in either direction. If you're going at it alone, get started with gathering the right safety gear and cleaning supplies. You'll need airtight goggles, clothing items that are easy to launder and that cover your extremities, a mold-safe mask and mold-approved gloves that reach at least to your forearms. You should also get new disposable rags and a disposable tarp or two that can help trap the mold you get off. Experts agree that you should avoid leaving moldy and unpainted drywall anywhere you find it because it can't be cleaned well enough. A note on cleaning with bleach: Skip it. Chlorine bleach is less effective than other cleaners and often doesn't kill mold growth and all its spores completely. Bleach is also toxic and can cause dangerous chemical fumes, especially if it's ever mixed with ammonia-based cleaners. Ask for better alternatives at the hardware store.
Chances are that if you're worried enough about mold problems to do online research, you will want a professional mold removal company. It is best if you find these companies in your geographic location, so contact if you live there. This will make certain that you hire technicians with specific experience.
Check credentials before you hire a mold damage cleanup service. The State Business Licensing Division is a good place to get started, and you can check for approval by groups such as as the Contractor Connection, Restoration Industry Association and the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration.
Mold damage that is allowed to grow sends off spores, which act like seeds and can cause damage to spread rapidly. If not, harmful mold will continue to feast on your home or business and can destroy your things.
The best way to clean up your mold damage is to get professional mold damage cleanup assistance. Don't hesitate.