First, let's go over a quick primer on what mold is. Every kind of mold is a fungus, just like mushrooms and lichens, for example. The mold that is toxic to humans is relatively rare in the fungus kingdom, meaning most kinds you find in your house or business aren't harmful. However, some molds are dangerous, so any mold you find indoors must be cleaned up and completely removed.

You could consider contacting these mold remediation services Bridgewater MI companies even if you see less mold than that. If you see mold, there is probably more trapped in drywall and crevices and elsewhere.

Before you contact mold removal services, the first step is to prevent the mold from growing. Turn off any ventilation. Then, work to stop the dripping or condensation that brought the mold in the first place. For instance, make sure damaged roofs are no longer dripping into your house or business and stop the flow of any rainwater that has penetrated your basement. Then, stop it from spreading. You could block off the area in question with disposable tarps, for example.

Now, you're ready to figure out whether to get professional help. Think about not only the mold area, but also any exacerbating health problems you may have. Allergy or asthma sufferers who struggle to breathe, for instance, should not perform mold cleanup activities.

Once you've decided, there are important things to do. If you're doing the work, begin with gathering the right equipment and clothing. You'll need non-ventilated goggles, clothes 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 will also want dedicated sponges and a disposable tarp or two that can help catch mold spores as you remove them. Health officials agree that you should never leave unpainted drywall that is moldy anywhere 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 kill mold. Most bleach also puts off toxic fumes, particularly if it's ever mixed with ammonia-based cleaners. Find better cleaners at most big box stores.

If you're concerned enough about mold damage to do online research, you will want certified a professional mold removal service. For example, don't hire a company focused on humid areas.

Before you hire anyone, make sure that they are licensed and registered 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 can also make sure the company knows and follows federal mold cleanup recommendations whether your mold is in a business or a residence.

Mold damage that is allowed to grow sends off spores, which act like seeds and can cause damage to spread rapidly. If not, mold damage will continue to feast on your structure and can ruin your possessions.

The safest way to mitigate your mold problem is to get mold removal assistance. Don't delay.