First, let's go over a quick primer on mold. Every kind of mold is a fungus, and share biology with mushrooms and lichens, for example. The mold that is toxic to people is relatively uncommon in the fungus world, meaning most kinds you find in your house or business aren't harmful. However, some toxic molds are dangerous, so any mold you find indoors must be mitigated and completely removed.

That means contacting a mold damage repair company is almost always a good idea. If you see mold, there is probably hidden mold behind walls, in attics 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 ventilation. Next, work to halt the moisture source that brought the mold. For example, fix leaky faucets or dry out standing water if you can. The next step is to contain the mold in as small an area as possible. You might block off the area with disposable tarps, for instance.

Next, figure out if you need to get mold damage removal help. Consider not only the damaged area, but also any exacerbating health problems you have. Allergy or asthma sufferers who struggle to breathe, for instance, should not perform mold cleanup activities.

Once you've decided, there are vital things to do in either direction. To do the mold removal yourself, gather supplies such as long mold-approved gloves, coveralls and a mold-safe mask and a pair of goggles. You might also need a throwaway tarp and tools to fix drywall, if that's where you found the mold. Mold removal specialists agree that you should not leave drywall that has mold on it anywhere because it can't be cleaned well enough. A note on cleaning with bleach: Skip it. Any bleach is less effective than other alternatives and often doesn't kill mold growth and all its spores completely. Bleach also puts off toxic fumes, especially if it's ever mixed with ammonia-based cleaners. You can get better cleaners at the hardware store.

Chances are that if you're concerned enough about mold damage to research, you need certified a professional mold removal service. If you choose to hire a mold removal expert, find one in your city because various molds grow in different geographic locations and you want people who know the perfect mold damage mitigation strategies to remove what you have came upon in your home or business. The closer to home, the better.

Check licensing and certifications before you hire a mold damage cleanup service. You might 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 very quickly. If not, parasitic fungi will continue to feast on your home or business and will ruin your things. Some types of mold, those that release toxic spores, can also cause major health problems ranging from brain damage. Mycotoxins can be particularly harmful to babies and kinds

The safest way to mitigate your mold growth is to get professional mold removal help. Don't delay.