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 humans is uncommon in the fungus kingdom, meaning most kinds aren't dangerous. However, some molds are dangerous, so any mold in your home or business must be cleaned up and completely removed.
Because of unknown risk levels, you should almost always contact a mold remediation contractor Lexington SC company if you find discover mold in your home. When you see any frightening mold growth, though, it's smart to reach out for help from professional mold removal services. The best mold removal services can help you make sure there is no hidden mold in other spots around the house using tools such as hygrometers, thermometers, laboratory-grade mold test procedures and more.
Before you contact mold cleanup specialists, the first step is to prevent the mold from growing. Do this by turning off any HVAC systems. Then, work to halt the moisture source that supplied the mold in the first place. Make sure roof leaks are no longer dripping into your house or business and restrict the flow of any rainwater that has seeped into your basement. Then, contain the problem. You could block off the area with disposable tarps, for instance.
Now, figure out if you need to get professional help. Consider not only the mold area, but also any aggravating health problems you may have. Allergy or asthma sufferers who have trouble breathing, for instance, should not perform mold removal activities.
Once you've decided, there are vital things to do in either direction. If you're performing the cleanup, begin with gathering the right safety gear and cleaning supplies. You'll need airtight goggles, clothing items that are easy to clean and that cover your extremities, a mold-safe mask and mold-approved gloves that reach at least to your forearms. You will also want dedicated sponges and a disposable tarp or two that can help trap the mold you get off. Mold removal specialists agree that you should avoid leaving moldy and unpainted drywall anywhere because it can't be cleaned well enough. Avoid cleaning with bleach.
Chances are that if you're worried enough about mold damage to do online research, you will want certified a professional mold removal service. If you choose to hire a mold mitigation company, look for one local to your area because different kinds of mold grow in different geographic locations and you need people who know the right mold damage repair techniques to stop the ones you located in your structure. The closer to home, the better.
Check credentials before you hire a mold removal company. The State Office of Consumer Protection is a good place to start, and you should check for affiliations such as as the Contractor Connection, Restoration Industry Association and the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration.
You should remove any fungal growth you find to stop further toxicity risk, and do it now. If not, parasitic fungi will keep eating on your home or business and can destroy your possessions. Some types of mold, those that release mycotoxins, can also cause sever health risks ranging from neurological damage to breathing problems and mold-related illnesses and generally poor health. Mycotoxins can be particularly harmful to infants, children, and anyone with a compromised immune system such as people with AIDS/HIV or lupus.
The best way to solve your mold damage is to get professional mold damage cleanup help. Don't wait another minute.