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 dangerous to you and your family is relatively rare in the fungus kingdom, meaning most kinds aren't dangerous. However, some toxic molds are dangerous, so any mold in your home or business must be mitigated and completely removed.
Because of possible toxicity, you should almost always contact a companies that remediate mold ashland ky company if you find discover mold in your home. This is because if you see mold growth, there is probably hidden mold trapped in drywall and crevices and elsewhere.
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 supplied the mold in the first place. For example, clear standing water and fix plumbing problems if you can. The next step is to contain the problem in as small an area as possible. You might block off the area in question with disposable tarps, for example.
Next, you're ready to figure out whether to get professional help. Think about not only the damaged area, but also any exacerbating health problems you have. People who already have trouble breathing, for example, should avoid mold mitigation activities.
Once you've made the decision, there are important things to do in either direction. If you're doing the work, start with gathering proper equipment and clothing. You'll need non-ventilated goggles, clothes that are easy to wash and that cover your extremities, and mold-safe masks and gloves. You will also want new disposable rags and disposable plastic sheeting that will help trap the mold you get off. Health officials agree that you should avoid leaving drywall that has mold on it anywhere you find it because it can't be cleaned well enough. Whatever you do, don't clean with bleach, especially if you're dealing with a substantial mold damage problem. It's mostly ineffective for any porous surfaces, and only somewhat effective on hard surfaces. It's also potentially toxic because it can cause fumes and should never be mixed with ammonia-based cleaners such as window cleaner.
If you're concerned enough about mold problems to do online research, you need a professional mold removal company. Don't hire a mitigation service focused in humid climates.
Check licensing and certifications before you hire a mold removal company. 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 left to grow releases spores, which act like seeds and can harm your possessions very quickly. If you don't, harmful mold will keep eating on your home or business and will ruin your things. Some molds, those that release mycotoxins, can also cause sever health risks ranging from neurological damage to breathing problems and mold-related illnesses and ongoing ill health. Mold can be especially dangerous for infants, children, and anyone with a compromised immune system such as people with AIDS/HIV or lupus.
The safest way to handle your mold damage is to get mold damage cleanup help. Don't delay.