Mold removal is a tricky business. If it’s not done properly, the problem can be made worse. Read more for helpful tips on tackling this demanding task.
Mold removal is not a quick wipe up job. Contamination often spreads rapidly. Once this condition has been verified,
it needs to be dealt with immediately. It can destroy the surfaces that it grows on and is lethal to human health. If a home or commercial building owner suspects the problem, it would be wise to get professionals out to inspect and eradicate.
Here are some tips for dealing with this challenging issue:
- Inspect the property: Either homeowners themselves or a skilled pro should perform a thorough inspection of the property. Mold can come in varying forms and colors, including those which have green, black or brown flat, furry appearances. Looking around window sills, in the bathroom around fixtures and tile, in the corners of the ceiling as well as cellar, attic or basement are all good places to start.
- Plug the leaks: If there are leaky pipes, windows, roofs or doorways, they need to be repaired before clean up or the problem will simply continue.
- Dry up all dampness: Mold loves damp areas and will continue to grow and thrive in these places. After reparation, drying the area with towels, heaters or fans will be a way to stop further growth. Towels should be laundered with bleach or thrown away.
- Wear protective eye goggles: Goggles to protect the eyes are available at the local hardware or building supply store. Mold spores are hazardous and all of one’s body should be covered.
- Gloves: Rubber, polyurethane or PVC gloves which cover the hands and much of the arm should be worn. It is important to keep hands from contact with this vile substance.
- Mask. Paper or plastic masks will protect breathing systems from exposure. The lungs and breathing components of a body can be adversely affected if they come in contact.
- Soft surfaces: Soft or delicate surfaces such as upholstered furniture and carpeting might need a trained restoration specialist to come to the rescue. Artwork or fragile valuables should be dealt with by professionals, as well. Some items may not be salvageable.
- Hard surfaces: Detergent or bleach may be utilized on hard surfaces. Tile, brickwork or glass can be scrubbed diligently with these cleansers and water in order to eliminate the spores.
- Heater and air conditioner systems: If there is contamination present in the ductwork of heating and cooling systems, this can be a dangerous situation, indeed. The spores can be blown through the ductwork and into the inhabitants’ lungs. A professional must deal with this problem.
- Repainting: Many surfaces will need to be repainted. It is important that all moldy regions have been cleaned first. Repainting over contaminated surfaces will not work. The items will peel away and the problem will be apparent again.
- Public buildings: Public buildings must be brought to the attention of the governmental environmental protection agency. This is for the well being of all concerned.
Mold removal is a challenging task. It is wise to bring in the restoration professionals in order to have a rapid and effective cure.
