Mildew or Mold in Your Home Doesn't Mean All Your Belongings Are Ruined
First, let's go over a quick review of mold. Every kind of mold is a fungus, just like mushrooms and athlete's foot, for example. The mold that is toxic to you and your family is relatively uncommon in the fungus world, meaning most kinds aren't harmful. However, some are dangerous, so any mold you find indoors must be mitigated and completely removed.
The rule of thumb is to contact a mold remediation contractor Midlothian TX company to clear the mold if it is more than 36 square inches.in area. This is because if you see mold, there is probably hidden mold behind walls, in attics and elsewhere.
Before you contact mold damage repair technicians, the first step is to stop the mold from getting worse. Turn 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 getting into your ceiling and staunch the flow of any moisture that has seeped into your basement. The next step is to contain the mold in as small an area as possible. You might tape off the area with disposable tarps, for example.
Now, you're ready to decide if you need to get mold damage removal help. Think about not only the damaged area, but also any exacerbating health issues you may have. People who already struggle to breathe, for instance, should not perform mold cleanup activities.
Once you've decided, there are vital steps to take. To do the cleanup yourself, pick up items such as gloves that reach your forearms, washable coveralls, non-ventilated eye protection and approved mold masks. You could also need disposable plastic sheeting and tools to repair drywall, if that's where you found the mold. Experts agree that you should avoid leaving drywall that has mold on it anywhere you find it because it can't be cleaned thoroughly. A note on cleaning with bleach: Skip it. Any bleach is less effective than other cleaners and often doesn't remediate mold thoroughly. Bleach-based cleaners is bad to breathe, particularly if it's ever mixed with substances such as Windex, which contains ammonia. You can get better cleaners at most big box stores.
Chances are that if you're worried enough about mold problems to do online research, you need a professional mold removal service. For example, don't select a mitigation service focused in humid climates.
Check licensing and certifications before you hire a mold damage cleanup service. The State Office of Consumer Protection is a good place to start, and you should check for approval by groups such as 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 left to grow releases spores, which act like seeds and can harm your possessions very quickly. If you don't, mold growths will continue to feast on your structure and will ruin your things.
The smartest way to handle your mold damage is to get professional mold damage cleanup help. Don't delay.