First, let's go over a quick review of mold. Every kind of mold is a fungus, and share biology with mushrooms and lichens, for example. The mold that is toxic to humans is relatively rare in the fungi kingdom, meaning most kinds aren't dangerous. However, some are dangerous, so any mold in your home or business must be cleaned up and completely removed.

Because of the chance of danger, you should almost always contact a black mold remediation Camas WA company if you find discover mold in your home. This is because if you see mold growth, there is probably hidden mold behind walls, in attics and elsewhere.

Before you contact mold removal services, the first step is to prevent the mold from growing. Do this by turning off any HVAC systems. Next, work to halt the moisture source that supplied the mold. For example, clear standing water and fix plumbing problems if you can. The next step is to contain the mold. You could block off the area in question with disposable tarps, for example.

Next, figure out if you need to get professional help. Consider not only the mold area, but also any aggravating health issues you may have. Allergy or asthma sufferers who have trouble breathing, for instance, should not perform mold removal activities.

Once you've selected a solution, there are important things to do. To finish the mold removal damage yourself, pick up items such as gloves that reach your forearms, full-coverage clothing, non-ventilated eye protection and approved mold masks. You could also need a throwaway tarp and tools to cut out and replace drywall, if that's where you found the mold. Mold removal specialists agree that you should never leave drywall that has mold on it anywhere because it can't be cleaned well enough. A note on cleaning with bleach: Don't. Bleach is less effective than other alternatives and often doesn't remediate mold thoroughly and all its spores completely. Most bleach is bad to breathe, particularly if it's ever mixed with ammonia-based cleaners. Ask for better cleaners at the hardware store.

If you're worried enough about mold damage to research, you need certified a professional mold removal service. If you choose to hire a mold removal service, find one local to your area because various molds grow in different geographic locations and you want experts who know the best mold damage cleanup strategies to clean up the ones you came upon in your structure. The closer to home, the better.

Before you hire any expert, check that they are licensed and registered properly and that they are certified by trade organizations such as the Contractor Connection, Restoration Industry Association and the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration. You can also make sure the company knows and follows federal mold cleanup recommendations whether your mold is in a business or a residence.

Mold damage that is allowed to grow sends off spores, which fly like dandelion seeds and can harm your possessions in short order. If you don't, parasitic fungi will keep eating on your home or business and can destroy your things. Some types of mold, those that release mycotoxins, can also cause major health problems ranging from brain damage. Mycotoxins can be particularly harmful to infants, children, and anyone with a compromised immune system such as people with AIDS/HIV or lupus.

The smartest way to clean up your mold growth is to get mold damage cleanup assistance. Don't delay.