Mold in Your Home isn't All Your Belongings Are Permanently Wrecked
First, let's go over a quick primer on mold. All molds are fungi, and share biology with mushrooms and lichens, for example. The mold that is dangerous to humans is uncommon in the fungi world, meaning most kinds you find in your house or business aren't harmful. However, some toxic molds are dangerous, so any mold you find indoors must be mitigated and completely removed.
Because of unknown risk levels, you should generally contact a commercial mold removal Florence TX company if you find discover mold in your home. If you see mold, there is probably hidden mold behind walls, in attics and elsewhere.
Before you contact mold removal services, the first step is to prevent the mold from getting worse. Turn off any HVAC systems. Next, work to halt the moisture source that supplied the mold. For example, fix leaky faucets or dry out standing water if you can. Next, stop it from spreading. You might tape off the room with plastic sheeting, for instance.
Now, figure out whether to get mold damage removal help. Think about not only the mold area, but also any aggravating health issues you have. Allergy or asthma sufferers who struggle to breathe, for example, should avoid mold mitigation activities.
Once you've decided, there are important things to do in either direction. If you're going at it alone, start with gathering proper safety gear and cleaning supplies. You'll need non-ventilated goggles, clothing items 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 sponges and a disposable tarp or two that will help catch mold spores as you remove them. Mold removal specialists agree that you should avoid leaving unpainted drywall that is moldy anywhere you find it because it can't be cleaned thoroughly. Whatever you do, don't clean with bleach, especially if you're dealing with a substantial mold damage situation. It's mostly ineffective for any porous surfaces, and only partially effective on hard surfaces. It's also dangerous because it can cause fumes and should never be mixed with ammonia.
If you're concerned enough about mold problems to do online research, you need certified a professional mold removal company. If you choose to hire a mold mitigation company, find one local to your area because different kinds of mold grow in different geographic locations and you need people who know the ideal mold damage cleanup techniques to clean up what you have came upon in your indoor environment. The closer to home, the better.
Before you schedule an appointment with any company, check that they are certified properly and that they are approved by groups such as the Restoration Industry Association, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration and Contractor Connection. You can also make sure the company knows and follows federal mold cleanup recommendations whether your mold is in a business or a residence.
You should mitigate any mold growth you find to prevent further harm, and do it now. If not, harmful mold will keep eating on your structure and will ruin your things. Some types of mold, those that release toxic spores, can also cause major health risks ranging from brain damage. Mycotoxins can be particularly harmful to infants, children, and anyone with a compromised immune system such as people with AIDS/HIV or lupus.
The best way to clean up your mold damage is to get professional mold damage help. Don't hesitate.