What to do Following Flood Damage. Find a Restoration Company
First, let's go over a quick primer on mold. All molds are fungi, just like mushrooms and lichens, for example. The mold that is toxic to humans is uncommon in the fungi world, meaning most kinds aren't dangerous. However, some molds are dangerous, so any mold you find indoors must be cleaned up and completely removed.
The rule of thumb is to contact a mold remediation contractor Cooksville MD company to clear the mold if it is more than 36 square inches.. If you see mold, there is probably more 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. Then, work to halt the moisture source that brought the mold in the first place. For instance, make sure roof leaks are no longer dripping into your house or business and stop the flow of any water that has seeped into your basement. The next step is to contain the mold. You might tape off the area with plastic sheeting, for example.
Now, you're ready to decide whether to get professional help. Think about not only the damaged area, but also any exacerbating health problems you have. Allergy or asthma sufferers who struggle to breathe, for instance, should avoid mold removal activities.
Once you've selected a solution, there are important steps to take. To complete the mold removal yourself, gather items such as long mold-approved gloves, coveralls and a mold-safe mask and sealed eye protection. You could also need something to trap mold from reaching the floor 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 you find it because it can't be cleaned well enough. Avoid cleaning with bleach.
Chances are that if you're worried enough about mold damage to do online research, you will want certified mold removal technicians service. If you choose to hire a mold removal service, look for one in your area because different kinds of mold thrive in different geographic locations and you want people who know the right mold damage cleanup techniques to clean up the ones you found in your structure. The more local, the better.
Before you select any expert, check that they are licensed and registered properly and that they are approved by watchdogs such as the Contractor Connection, Restoration Industry Association and the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration. The State Office of Consumer Protection is a good place to get started, and you should check for affiliations such as as the Contractor Connection, Restoration Industry Association and the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration.
Mold damage that is allowed to grow releases spores, which act like seeds and can cause damage to spread very quickly. If you don't, harmful mold will keep eating on your home or business and will destroy your possessions. Some types of mold, those that release toxic spores, can also cause major health problems ranging from neurological damage to respiratory and mold-related infections and generally poor health. Mycotoxins can be particularly harmful to infants, children, and anyone with a compromised immune system .
The best way to mitigate your mold damage is to get mold damage cleanup assistance. Don't hesitate.