What to do After Water Damage. Call a Restoration Business
First, let's go over a quick primer on what mold is. Every kind of mold is a fungus, and share biology with mushrooms and lichens, for example. The mold that is dangerous to you and your family is relatively uncommon in the fungus world, meaning most kinds aren't dangerous. However, some molds are dangerous, so any mold you find indoors must be cleaned up and completely removed.
The best plan is to contact a mold remediation contractor Glen Burnie MD company to clean up the mold if it is more than 36 square inches.. When you see any large amount of mold growth, though, it's a good idea to reach out for cleanup assistance from mold removal services. Certified technicians can help you make sure there is no mold spots in other places around the structure using tools such as temperature sensors, moisture detectors and more.
Before you contact mold removal services, the first step is to prevent the mold from growing. Do this by turning off any ventilation. Next, work to halt the moisture source that supplied the mold in the first place. For example, clear standing water and fix plumbing problems if you can. Next, stop it from spreading. You could block off the room with disposable tarps, for example.
Now, you're ready to figure out if you need to get professional help. Think about not only the damaged area, but also any aggravating health issues you may have. Allergy or asthma sufferers who have trouble breathing, for example, should avoid mold removal activities.
Once you've made the decision, there are vital things to do. If you're going at it alone, get started with gathering proper safety gear and cleaning supplies. You'll need airtight goggles, clothing items that are easy to launder and that cover your extremities, and mold-safe masks and gloves. You should also get new disposable rags and a disposable tarp or two that can help catch mold spores as you remove them. Health officials agree that you should not leave drywall that has mold on it anywhere because it can't be cleaned thoroughly. A note on cleaning with bleach: Don't. Bleach doesn't work as well other detergents and often doesn't kill mold. Most bleach also puts off toxic fumes, especially if it's ever mixed with ammonia-based cleaners. Find better alternatives at the hardware store.
Chances are that if you're worried enough about mold damage to research, you need certified a professional mold removal service. Don't select a mitigation service focused in humid climates.
Check licensing and certifications before you hire a mold removal company. The State Office of Consumer Protection is a good place to start, and you can check for approval by groups such as as the Restoration Industry Association, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration and Contractor Connection.
You should remove any mold you come across to prevent further harm, and do it now. If not, mold damage will keep eating on your structure and can destroy your possessions.
The best way to solve your mold problem is to get mold damage help. Don't hesitate.