First, let's go over a quick primer on mold. Every kind of mold is a fungus, just like mushrooms and athlete's foot, for example. The mold that is dangerous to humans is relatively rare in the fungus world, meaning most kinds you find in your house or business aren't dangerous. However, some molds are dangerous, so any mold in your home or business must be cleaned up and completely removed.
Because of unknown risk levels, you should generally contact a mold remediation contractor Lake City FL company if you find discover mold in your home. This is because if you see mold, there is probably hidden mold trapped in drywall and crevices and elsewhere.
Before you contact mold cleanup specialists, the first step is to prevent the mold from getting worse. Do this by turning off any HVAC systems. Then, work to halt the moisture source that brought the mold in the first place. For instance, make sure roof leaks are no longer getting into your ceiling and restrict the flow of any water that has seeped into your basement. Then, stop it from spreading. You could tape off the area with plastic sheeting, for example.
Should you get a mold mitigation company to help or can you complete the cleanup on your own? Beyond considering the magnitude of the damage, think about any aggravating health concerns that make you prone to becoming sick.
Once you've selected a solution, there are important steps to take in either direction. If you're doing the work, start with gathering proper equipment and clothing. You'll need airtight goggles, coveralls that are easy to wash and that cover your extremities, a mold-safe mask and mold-approved gloves that reach at least to your forearms. You will also want new disposable sponges and a disposable tarp or two that will help trap the mold you get off. Health officials agree that you should not leave unpainted drywall that is moldy anywhere because it can't be cleaned well enough. Avoid cleaning with bleach.
If you're worried enough about mold damage to look for solutions on the web, you need a professional mold removal company. If you choose to hire a mold removal service, find one local to your city because various molds grow in different geographic locations and you want technicians who know the right mold damage cleanup techniques to remove the ones you located in your home or business. The closer to home, the better.
Before you schedule an appointment with any company, make sure that they are certified properly and that they are approved by trade organizations 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.
Mold damage left to grow sends off spores, which fly like dandelion seeds and can harm your possessions in short order. If you don't, parasitic fungi will continue to feast on your structure and will ruin your possessions.
The ideal way to solve your mold problem is to get professional mold damage help. Don't wait another minute.