First, let's go over a quick primer on what mold is. All molds are fungi, and share biology with mushrooms and lichens, for example. The mold that is toxic to people is uncommon 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 mitigated and completely removed.

Government experts recommend that you call a commercial mold removal University Of Mn MN company for assistance if the smelly mold takes up more than 36 square inches. 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 growing. Do this by turning off any ventilation. Then, work to stop the dripping or condensation that brought the mold in the first place. For instance, make sure roof leaks are no longer dripping into your ceiling and staunch the flow of any rainwater that has penetrated your basement. Then, contain the problem. You could tape off the area with disposable tarps, for instance.

Now, decide whether to get professional help. Think about not only the damaged area, but also any exacerbating health issues you may have. People who already struggle to breathe, for instance, should not perform mold removal activities.

Once you've selected a solution, there are important steps to take in either direction. If you're performing the cleanup, begin with gathering the right equipment and clothing. You'll need airtight goggles, coveralls 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 dedicated rags and disposable plastic sheeting that will help trap the mold you get off. Experts agree that you should not leave unpainted drywall that is moldy anywhere because it can't be cleaned thoroughly. A note on cleaning with bleach: Skip it. Any bleach doesn't work as well other alternatives and often doesn't kill mold growth and all its spores completely. Bleach-based cleaners also puts off toxic fumes, particularly if it's ever mixed with ammonia, a common ingredient in many household cleaners . Ask for better alternatives at the hardware store.

Chances are that if you're concerned enough about mold problems to do online research, you will want a professional mold removal company. If you choose to hire a mold removal expert, find one local to your city because different kinds of mold thrive in different geographic locations and you want people who know the right mold damage cleanup techniques to remove the ones you came upon in your structure. The closer to home, the better.

Check licensing and certifications before you hire a mold damage cleanup service.

Mold damage left to grow releases spores, which act like seeds and can harm your possessions in short order. If you don't, harmful mold will continue to feast on your home or business and will ruin your things. Some types of mold, those that release mycotoxins, can also cause major health problems ranging from neurological damage to respiratory and mold-related infections and ongoing ill health. Mold can be particularly harmful to infants, children, and anyone with a compromised immune system .

The safest way to clean up your mold growth is to get mold damage help. Don't delay.