A Flood Damaged My Home. What Do You Do Now?
First, let's go over a quick primer on what mold is. All molds are fungi, and share biology with mushrooms and lichens, for example. The mold that is toxic to humans is uncommon in the fungus kingdom, meaning most kinds you find in your house or business aren't dangerous. However, some toxic molds are dangerous, so any mold in your home or business must be mitigated and completely removed.
Government experts recommend that you call a black mold remediation Lansing MI company for cleanup help if the smelly mold takes up more than about 9 square feet. When you see any sizable amount of mold growth, though, it's smart to call for help from professional mold damage cleanup. Certified technicians can help you make sure there is no mold spots in other places around the structure using tools such as hygrometers, thermometers, laboratory-grade mold test procedures and more.
Before you contact mold damage repair technicians, the first step is to prevent the mold from getting worse. Turn off any ventilation. Next, work to halt the dripping or condensation that brought the mold. Make sure roof leaks are no longer getting into your house or business and staunch the flow of any moisture that has gotten into your basement. The next step is to contain the problem in as small an area as possible. You might block off the area in question with plastic sheeting, for instance.
Now, figure out whether to get professional help. Consider not only the mold area, but also any exacerbating health problems you may have. People who already have trouble breathing, for example, should not perform mold cleanup activities.
Once you've selected a solution, there are vital steps to take in either direction. If you're performing the cleanup, begin with gathering proper equipment and clothing. You'll need non-ventilated goggles, coveralls that are easy to wash and that cover your arms and legs, and mold-safe masks and gloves. You should also get dedicated rags and disposable plastic sheeting that will help catch mold spores as you remove them. Experts agree that you should avoid leaving drywall that has mold on it anywhere you find it because it can't be cleaned thoroughly.
Chances are that if you're concerned enough about mold damage to look for solutions on the web, you need a professional mold removal service. It is highly recommended that you find these companies in your geographic location, so call for if you live there. Doing this will ensure that you hire technicians with relevant experience.
Before you hire anyone, check that they are certified properly and that they are certified by trade organizations such as the Restoration Industry Association, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration and Contractor Connection. You might also make sure the company knows and follows federal mold cleanup recommendations whether your mold is in a business or a residence.
You should clean up any mold you find to stop further mold damage, and do it now. If you don't, mold damage will continue to feast on your structure and will destroy your possessions.
The best way to mitigate your mold growth is to get professional mold damage cleanup help. Don't hesitate.