First, let's go over a quick review of mold. Every kind of mold is a fungus, just like mushrooms and lichens, for example. The mold that is toxic to you and your family is uncommon in the fungus world, meaning most kinds aren't dangerous. However, some molds are dangerous, so any mold in your home or business must be mitigated and completely removed.
Because of the chance of danger, you should usually contact a commercial mold removal Birmingham AL company if you find discover mold in your home. When you see any big amount of mold growth, however, it's smart to call for cleanup assistance from professional mold removal services. They can help you test for mold spots in other spots around the house using tools such as measurement devices and laboratory kits and more.
Before you contact mold cleanup specialists, the first step is to stop the mold from growing. Do this by turning off any ventilation. Next, work to stop the dripping or condensation that supplied the mold in the first place. For example, clear standing water and fix plumbing problems if you can. Next, contain the problem. You might tape off the room with disposable tarps, for example.
Should you get a mold mitigation company to help or can you finish the cleanup on your own? Beyond pondering the size of the issue, think about any exacerbating health concerns you may have that make you susceptible to risk.
Once you've decided, there are important things to do in either direction. If you're performing the cleanup, begin with gathering the right equipment and clothing. You'll need airtight goggles, clothes 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 dedicated rags and a disposable tarp or two that will help trap the mold you get off. Mold removal specialists agree that you should avoid leaving moldy and unpainted drywall anywhere you find it because it can't be cleaned well enough. A note on cleaning with bleach: Don't. Chlorine bleach doesn't work as well other alternatives and often doesn't remediate mold thoroughly. Bleach-based cleaners is also toxic and can cause dangerous chemical fumes, particularly if it's ever mixed with ammonia-based cleaners. Ask for better alternatives at the hardware store.
Chances are that if you're worried enough about mold problems to do online research, you need a professional mold removal service. If you choose to hire a mold mitigation company, find one in your city because various molds grow in different geographic locations and you need technicians who know the ideal mold damage repair strategies to stop the ones you located in your structure. The more local, the better.
Check licensing and certifications before you hire a mold damage cleanup service. The State Office of Consumer Protection is a good place to get started, and you can check for approval by groups such as as the Restoration Industry Association, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration and Contractor Connection.
You should remove any mold growth you find to prevent further harm, and do it now. If you don't, harmful mold will continue to feast on your home or business and will ruin your possessions. Some molds, those that release toxic spores, can also cause major health problems ranging from neurological damage to breathing problems and mold-related infections and generally poor health. Mold can be particularly dangerous for infants, children, and anyone with a compromised immune system .
The safest way to mitigate your mold damage is to get professional mold removal help. Don't wait another minute.