Infestation of mold in your home is a very overwhelming experience. Besides being unsightly brown stains or the musty smell, mold infestation becomes a health hazard and requires your immediate action. That’s where Mold Remediation -a systematic process of mold removal and prevention-fits in.
Learn how to prevent mold like a pro – from grasping the risks, learning DIY tricks, to identifying when it’s time to call in the cavalry.
Why Mold Remediation Matters
You might be tempted to just bleach away those visible mold spots and call it a day. But mold is a bit more perspicacious. Mold remediation by GAC Environmental is a much more in-depth process that entails the complete eradication of its root cause so it will not grow back.
Health Risks Associated with Mold Exposure
Mold grows in moist environments and releases its spores into the air. You breathe in these pesky spores, which can whip up a storm of respiratory troubles for the vulnerable.
Exposure to mold can cause allergic reactions, with symptoms such as:
- Nasal stuffiness and runny nose.
- Sore throat and coughing.
- Skin and eye irritation.
- Headaches and fatigue.
Property Damage: Mold’s Silent Destruction
Apart from health problems, mold can destroy your property. Just think about your house foundation- how it insidiously decays the exposed surfaces in your house, such as drywall, carpets, and concrete. It pays to address mold removal concerns out of the gate to help save on mold remediation costs.
DIY Mold Removal vs. Professional Mold Remediation
Now, should you handle the mold cleanup yourself or seek professional help? According to the Environmental Protection Agency, mold removal should be handled on your own if it covers less than a 10-square-foot area and is a minor issue.
Tackling Small Mold Issues: Effective DIY Tips
For minor mold issues, you can try the steps for mold removal below:
- Safety Precautions: Wear protective gear, such as an N95 respirator mask, gloves, and goggles, whenever cleaning moldy areas.
- Contain the Area: Block off the area with a thick plastic sheet and seal it tightly with tape to prevent any mess from spreading.
- Scrub and Clean: Use a mixture of water and detergent to remove mold. Make sure this is followed with good rinsing and drying.
- Ventilation is not that glamorous, but trust us, it is something very important and it will save you a great deal of headache later on. Use fans and open windows for ventilation in the area when cleaning and for days thereafter. Consider a dehumidifier in humid climates or areas prone to moisture.
When to Call the Pros: Signs You Need Expert Mold Remediation
For larger mold problems, like black mold, it’s best to contact experienced mold remediation professionals. Because emergencies require careful forethought, they pack high-grade gear, precise contingency plans, and a crisp understanding of safety imperatives to defuse most situations.
Consider professional Mold Remediation Services if:
- The mold covers an area greater than ten-square-foot.
- The mold growth is behind walls or in other hard-to-reach places.
- There are concerns about your health, and breathing difficulties are top of the list.
- Mold growth may be part of sewage or contaminated water damage.
The Right Mold Remediation Professional
Selecting the proper mold remediation contractor ensures the job will be done properly. Most mold remediation companies have certain standards to which they adhere, including the IICRC S520 Standard, which provides guidelines on the procedures involved in mold remediation. Always request licensing, insurance, and certifications such as from the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification).
Mold Prevention: A Proactive Approach
Dealing with a mold infestation is never fun; why not prevent it in the first place instead of reacting to it? This is much easier and cheap rather than having to deal with a full-blown mold issue that might lead to significant mold damage.
Effective Tips to Prevent Mold in Your Home:
- Keep it Dry: In a dry house, mold is no problem. Dry well your house in wet-prone areas and install a dehumidifier in humid basements and crawl spaces. Run exhaust fans during and after showers and immediately fix any leak.
- Keep Things Clean: Regular cleaning can go a long way in preventing mold. Special attention needs to be given to areas most prone to moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens. Clean up spills right away, and pay quick attention to any area of standing water.
- Maintain Your HVAC System: One of the easier ways to control the moisture level is to keep your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system serviced. Consider using a HEPA filter, which would help in catching mold spores in the air.
FAQs about Mold Remediation
Can you remediate mold yourself?
Yes, most small areas of mold you can remediate yourself. The EPA does suggest that if the mold is less than 10 square feet, it is okay to do yourself, but with protection gear and safety precautions in mind.
How much are typical mold remediation costs?
The cost of mold remediation, however, depends on the intensity of mold and square foot. It generally ranges from $500 to 6,000 dollars. Mold removal problems that have gotten out of hand usually take a serious investment to fix.
What kills 100% of mold?
Most of the solutions claim to kill mold; practically, it is impossible to try to annihilate 100% of the mold. It’s everywhere around, dormant, waiting for the right conditions to grow. Mold remediation is about solving the root problem: stopping it from coming back by fixing the moisture issue.
Mold Remediation: Expert Tips to Ensure a Safe, Healthy Home
Remember, when it comes to the right execution of mold remediation, it is all about going to the source of moisture. If uncomfortable removing mold growth yourself or if the infestation is extensive, then even with high mold remediation costs, it remains best to call in the experts.
If you think mold remediation is a heavy lift, think again: proper action lets you claim a fresh, safe space for you-and that’s a healthy dividend!
