It's important to learn about what mold is and why it grows. Every kind of mold is a fungus, and share biology with mushrooms and athlete's foot, for example. The mold that is dangerous to humans is relatively rare in the fungi kingdom, meaning most kinds aren't dangerous. However, some toxic molds are dangerous, so any mold you find indoors must be mitigated and completely removed.
Government experts recommend that you call a black mold remediation Dayton MD company for cleanup help if the mold growth takes up more than about 3 square feet. This is because if you see mold, there is probably more trapped in drywall and crevices and elsewhere.
Before you contact mold damage repair technicians, 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 example, fix leaky faucets or dry out standing water if you can. The next step is to contain the mold. You could tape off the room with plastic sheeting, for instance.
Now, you're ready to decide if you need to get professional help. Consider not only the mold area, but also any exacerbating health issues you may have. People who already struggle to breathe, for example, should avoid mold mitigation activities.
Once you've decided, there are important things to do. To finish the mold removal yourself, purchase supplies such as gloves that reach your forearms, full-coverage clothing, sealed goggles and approved mold masks. You will probably also need a throwaway tarp and tools to cut out and replace drywall, if that's where you found the mold. Health officials agree that you should never leave moldy and unpainted drywall anywhere because it can't be cleaned thoroughly. A note on cleaning with bleach: Don't. Any bleach doesn't work as well other cleaners and often doesn't remediate mold thoroughly. Bleach-based cleaners also puts off toxic fumes, particularly if it's ever mixed with substances such as Windex, which contains ammonia. You can get better alternatives at most big box stores.
If you're worried enough about mold problems to do online research, you will want a professional mold removal service. If you choose to hire a mold removal service, find one local to your city because various molds thrive in different geographic locations and you need technicians who know the best mold damage mitigation techniques to remove the ones you came upon in your home or business. The more local, the better.
Before you choose anyone, check that they are certified properly and that they are certified by watchdogs such as the Contractor Connection, Restoration Industry Association and the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration. You might 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 mold growth you find to stop further mold damage, and do it right away. If you don't, harmful mold will continue to feast on your structure and can ruin your things.
The smartest way to clean up your mold growth is to get mold damage cleanup assistance. Don't hesitate.