Mold is a common home problem that can exacerbate allergy-like symptoms, cause health problems, and damage building materials. If you notice a musty odor or discolored patches on your walls, treating the situation as soon as possible is essential.
While you can clean small areas yourself, larger infestations require professional help. Here’s a look at the easy steps to get your home mold-free and protect your health.
Clean the Area
If mold is not removed quickly, it can cause severe damage to a home or building. This can include structural damage, odors, and health problems for residents.
The first step in removing mold is to clean the area. This will keep new spores from spreading to other sites and causing a recurrence of the problem.
In addition to cleaning, a professional mold removal North Fort Worth should seal off the area so that new spores cannot escape into the air. They should also run air cleaners and scrubbers to remove any remaining spores.
A homeowner should not attempt to do any of this alone because it could result in further damage. Instead, they should call a mold removal North Fort Worth professional to handle the job because they have the expertise and equipment to deal with mold properly.
The cost to clean the mold will depend on its size, type, and labor needed. For example, large growths will be more expensive to remove than small ones.
Seal the Area
After the mold is cleaned, it’s essential to seal the area. This will prevent spores from re-infesting the home and keep it safe for people to be in.
Using a commercial cleaning product and detergent to remove the mold is best. It’s also important to dry the area thoroughly afterward.
If there are a lot of molds or the area is large, it’s best to call in a professional. A mold removal North Fort Worth is more likely to find the source of the water damage and can help you remove it all safely and effectively.
Before removing the mold, take pictures and videos of the damage. These can be used to file a claim with your insurance company and receive the most for your damages.
Disinfect the Area
If the mold is on hard surfaces, such as drywall or wood trim, scrub them with one-quart water and 1/2 cup bleach. Use a soft brush to work the mix into the mold stains and allow it to penetrate for a few minutes. Then, wipe the area clean and dry it before refinishing it.
If there are more than 10 square feet of mold growth, hiring a mold removal professional in Fort Worth to do the cleaning is best. Ask for references and make sure the contractor follows EPA guidelines, the guidelines of the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC), or other guidelines from professional or government organizations.
In addition, people who are allergic to mold or have breathing issues should not work in damp or moldy areas. Instead, they should change into clean clothes and shower as soon as possible to avoid carrying the mold spores back into their living space.
Dry the Area
In addition to the health effects that mold can cause, it also causes significant damage to building materials. This is why hiring a professional to handle mold removal is always best.
After the area is cleaned, sealed, and disinfected, it’s time to dry it thoroughly. This is especially important if the site is carpeted or porous, as mold can grow on and fill in these areas.
When the area is arid, it’s time to clean up any mold that is still present. Use a mild soap and water solution to scrub away any stains, but dry the surface thoroughly afterward.
If the affected area is more significant than 10 square feet or hidden from view, it’s best to hire a mold removal North Fort Worth professional. This will ensure the mold is entirely removed and doesn’t spread to other parts of the home. It will also protect your health and help prevent the spreading of spores that could lead to further health problems.