First, let's go over a quick primer on mold. All molds are fungi, and share biology with mushrooms and lichens, for example. The mold that is dangerous to humans is rare in the fungi kingdom, meaning most kinds aren't harmful. However, some molds are dangerous, so any mold you find indoors must be mitigated and completely removed.
The best plan is to find a emergency mold restoration contractor brookline ma company to get rid of the mold if it is more than 3 square feet.. When you see any large amount of mold growth, however, it's wise to call for help from mold damage cleanup. They can help you test for mold spots in other places around the house using tools such as hygrometers, thermometers, laboratory-grade mold test procedures and more.
Before you contact mold cleanup specialists, the first step is to prevent the mold from growing. Turn off any HVAC systems. Then, work to halt the moisture source that brought the mold. For example, clear standing water and fix plumbing problems if you can. Then, contain the problem. You might tape off the area with disposable tarps, for instance.
Next, you're ready to decide if you need to get professional help. Think about not only the mold area, but also any exacerbating health problems you may have. People who already have trouble breathing, for example, should not perform mold mitigation activities.
Once you've made the decision, there are important steps to take. If you're going at it alone, start with gathering proper safety gear and cleaning supplies. You'll need non-ventilated goggles, clothes that are easy to clean and that cover your extremities, and mold-safe masks and gloves. You should also get dedicated rags and a disposable tarp or two that will help trap the mold you get off. Mold removal specialists agree that you should never leave unpainted drywall that is moldy anywhere because it can't be cleaned thoroughly. Whatever you do, don't clean with bleach, especially if you're dealing with a serious mold repair situation. It's completely ineffective for any porous surfaces, and only partially effective on hard ones. It's also potentially toxic because it can release fumes and should not be mixed with ammonia-based cleaners such as window cleaner.
If you're worried enough about mold problems to look for solutions on the web, you will want a professional mold removal service. For example, don't choose a company focused in humid climates.
Before you choose any company, check that they are certified properly and that they are approved by groups such as the Contractor Connection, Restoration Industry Association and the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration.
Mold left to grow sends off spores, which fly like dandelion seeds and can harm your possessions rapidly. If you don't, harmful mold will keep eating on your structure and will ruin your things. Some types of mold, those that release toxic spores, can also cause sever health problems ranging from brain damage. Mold can be particularly dangerous for infants, children, and anyone with a compromised immune system such as people with AIDS/HIV or lupus.
The safest way to mitigate your mold damage is to get mold damage assistance. Don't hesitate.