How to Treat Mold in The Home
Treating mold at home can be a huge project, especially if the mold has spread to multiple rooms. While it is always best to consult with a mold remediation specialist, there are a few steps that can be taken to clean up a mold problem. Keep in mind that there are many dangerous species of molds that can cause serious health implications, so always speak to a professional first prior to attempting to treat the mold independently. Often, homeowners who take a do-it-yourself approach end up calling a professional anyway because even if visible mold has been cleaned up there could still be deep-rooted mold present, such as behind drywall or in subflooring. Rest assured that there is safe mold removal in NJ available, however if a do-it-yourself approach is required here are a few steps that can be taken at home.
Why Treating Mold Is Important
Mold is the source of many health and environmental concerns. The presence of indoor mold can lead to unsafe and hazardous living conditions if it goes unaddressed. For instance, mold can lead to breathing problems such as increased asthma attacks, skin irritations such as dermatitis, nose bleeds, nasal cavity irritation, itchy eyes, coughing, vomiting and diarrhea, just to name a few. There are even more serious conditions that can develop including internal bleeding, pulmonary issues, nervous system conditions and decreased mental capacity. This is why treating mold is so important. A homeowner, their family and even their pets are at risk for developing mold related health conditions.
At Home Remediation Explained
If, and only if at home remediation is a necessity for smaller mold problems, take the following considerations into account. To begin the at-home clean-up process the following items will be required:
Why Treating Mold Is Important
Mold is the source of many health and environmental concerns. The presence of indoor mold can lead to unsafe and hazardous living conditions if it goes unaddressed. For instance, mold can lead to breathing problems such as increased asthma attacks, skin irritations such as dermatitis, nose bleeds, nasal cavity irritation, itchy eyes, coughing, vomiting and diarrhea, just to name a few. There are even more serious conditions that can develop including internal bleeding, pulmonary issues, nervous system conditions and decreased mental capacity. This is why treating mold is so important. A homeowner, their family and even their pets are at risk for developing mold related health conditions.
At Home Remediation Explained
If, and only if at home remediation is a necessity for smaller mold problems, take the following considerations into account. To begin the at-home clean-up process the following items will be required:
- Heavy tape and heavy plastic – These items will be needed to secure the area prior to cleanup. Taping off entrances to the area will ensure mold spores cannot travel to other rooms within the home.
- Protective gear – Protective gear such as heavy-duty rubber gloves, a face mask, and goggles will be required. These items are needed to protect the homeowner from direct contact with dangerous mold spores.
- A specialty spray on fungicide product – Such products are created for the specific purpose of mold removal and they may be purchased from a remediation specialist or from a local hardware store. When choosing a product rely on trusted brands for the best mold removal outcomes.
- A fan – A fan will be required for room ventilation.
- A rough scouring pad – This will be needed to wipe away visible mold after the fungicide has been applied.
To begin the remediation process section off each affected area with tape and plastic, to be treated one room at a time. Next, put on all protective gear to prevent direct contact with noxious mold spores. Now, carefully read the fungicide’s instructions. Most will say to spray on an ample layer of product directly onto the mold. The product will need to dry so the fan can be used and applied directly to the wet product. After the product as dried for the recommended amount of time, the visible mold stains on the wall will no longer be alive. However, this does not mean that they are no longer harmful. Both live and deceased mold spores can pose equally damaging health risks. This is why the visible mold must then be removed with the rough scouring pad. After this is done, many fungicide instructions will then recommend putting on another layer of the product and then repeating these steps for the best results. Keep in mind that one of the biggest myths in mold remediation is that a Clorox and water solutions can get rid of mold. This could not be any further than the truth. A thorough mold remediation will include the aforementioned steps as well as professional expertise to make sure mold has been completely removed and has been treated so that it never comes back.
Other Considerations
While these steps may be helpful for smaller mold problems, they will be in vain if the original source of the moisture problem is not addressed. Mold loves moist, wet areas. To make sure mold never comes back pinpoint the source of where the moisture is coming from. Damp sources provide the perfect breeding ground for mold overgrowths. Such causes could include leaky roofs, leaking pipes, underground water leaks or even a faulty water proofing system in the basement. Also, fully ventilate spaces within the home. Mold does not fare well in dry places but a complete lack of air movement, where moisture is present, can quickly contribute to mold growth. Last but not least, get a professional inspection. Since mold can grow on many different building materials, including hard to spot areas such as under carpets and behind dry wall, the keen expertise of a professional may be helpful for the best outcomes.
Mold can lead to serious health problems. For the best results, contact a professional remediation service for mold removal near you today.
Other Considerations
While these steps may be helpful for smaller mold problems, they will be in vain if the original source of the moisture problem is not addressed. Mold loves moist, wet areas. To make sure mold never comes back pinpoint the source of where the moisture is coming from. Damp sources provide the perfect breeding ground for mold overgrowths. Such causes could include leaky roofs, leaking pipes, underground water leaks or even a faulty water proofing system in the basement. Also, fully ventilate spaces within the home. Mold does not fare well in dry places but a complete lack of air movement, where moisture is present, can quickly contribute to mold growth. Last but not least, get a professional inspection. Since mold can grow on many different building materials, including hard to spot areas such as under carpets and behind dry wall, the keen expertise of a professional may be helpful for the best outcomes.
Mold can lead to serious health problems. For the best results, contact a professional remediation service for mold removal near you today.