Water Damaged My Home. Now What?
It's important to learn about what mold is and where it thrives. Every kind of mold is a fungus, and share biology with mushrooms and athlete's foot, for example. The mold that is dangerous to humans is uncommon in the fungus kingdom, meaning most kinds aren't harmful. However, some toxic molds are dangerous, so any mold you find indoors must be cleaned up and completely removed.
You should consider contacting these commercial mold removal Ashland, KY companies even if you see less mold than that. When you see any big amount of mold growth, however, it's a good idea to reach out for help from professional mold removal services. Certified technicians can help you test for 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 removal services, the first step is to stop the mold from growing. Do this by turning off any ventilation. Next, work to stop the moisture source that brought the mold in the first place. For example, fix leaky faucets or dry out standing water if you can. The next step is to contain the mold. You might block off the area in question with disposable tarps, for instance.
Should you get a mold mitigation company to help or can you finish the cleanup on your own? Beyond pondering the magnitude of the issue, consider any aggravating health concerns that make you prone to becoming sick.
Once you've decided, there are important things to do in either direction. If you're going at it alone, get started with gathering proper equipment and clothing. You'll need non-ventilated goggles, clothing items that are easy to wash and that cover your extremities, a mold-safe mask and mold-approved gloves that reach at least to your forearms. You should also get new disposable sponges and disposable plastic sheeting that will help catch mold spores as you remove them. Experts agree that you should never leave unpainted drywall that is moldy anywhere you find it because it can't be cleaned well enough. A note on cleaning with bleach: Don't. Chlorine bleach doesn't work as well other detergents and often doesn't kill mold. Bleach-based cleaners is bad to breathe, especially if it's ever mixed with substances such as Windex, which contains ammonia. Find better alternatives at the hardware store.
If you're concerned enough about mold problems to do online research, you will want a professional mold removal service. It is best if you find a mitigation service in your area, so contact if you live in that area. This will ensure that you hire a company with enough experience.
Before you select anyone, make sure that they are certified properly and that they are approved by trade organizations such as the Restoration Industry Association, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration and Contractor Connection. The State Office of Consumer Protection is a good place to start, and you should check for affiliations such as as the Restoration Industry Association, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration and Contractor Connection.
Mold damage that is allowed to grow sends off spores, which fly like dandelion seeds and can harm your possessions in short order. If not, harmful mold will keep eating on your home or business and will ruin your possessions.
The smartest way to clean up your mold growth is to get professional mold damage cleanup assistance. Don't hesitate.