First, let's go over a quick primer on mold. All molds are fungi, just like mushrooms and athlete's foot, for example. The mold that is toxic to humans is rare 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 in your home or business must be mitigated and completely removed.
You should think about contacting these commercial mold removal company Greencastle PA companies even if you see less mold than that. When you see any big mold growth, however, it's wise to reach out for cleanup assistance from professional mold damage cleanup. The best mold removal services can help you make sure there is no hidden mold in other spots 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 getting worse. Do this by turning off any ventilation. Then, work to halt the moisture source that brought the mold in the first place. For example, clear standing water and fix plumbing problems if you can. Then, stop it from spreading. You could tape off the area with disposable tarps, for instance.
Now, decide 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 struggle to breathe, for instance, should avoid mold cleanup 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 the right equipment and clothing. You'll need non-ventilated goggles, clothes that are easy to launder and that cover your extremities, and mold-safe masks and gloves. You should also get dedicated sponges and disposable plastic sheeting that can help catch mold spores as you remove them. Mold removal specialists agree that you should not leave unpainted drywall that is moldy 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 repair situation. It's completely unsuccessful for soft surfaces, and only partially effective on hard ones. It's also dangerous because it can cause fumes and should not be mixed with ammonia-based cleaners such as window cleaner.
If you're worried enough about mold problems to do online research, you need certified a professional mold removal service. For example, don't hire a mitigation service focused on humid areas.
Before you hire any expert, check that they are certified properly and that they are certified by 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 need to remove any fungal growth you find to prevent further toxicity risk, and do it right away. If you don't, mold growths will keep eating on your home or business and can ruin your things. Some molds, those that release mycotoxins, can also cause major health problems ranging from neurological damage to respiratory and mold-related illnesses and ongoing ill health. Mold can be particularly harmful to infants, children, and anyone with a compromised immune system such as people with AIDS/HIV or lupus.
The safest way to mitigate your mold damage is to get professional mold removal assistance. Don't delay.