Important Things to Know About Mold Removal and Mold Remediation

You spot black mold growing on the walls in your basement or your home inspector tells you that there’s a significant mold problem in the attic. Is it time to panic? Absolutely not, say mold removal professionals. It may, however, be time to call in a professional mold remediation contractor to deal with the problem in the healthiest way possible. Here’s what mold removal specialists want you to know.

Most Mold Is Not Toxic But Some Molds Can Create Health Problems

Mold is not toxic in itself, but some molds can produce toxins that circulate in the air. Those can rarely produce serious health problems, such as pulmonary hemorrhage or memory loss. What’s more common, however, is for exposure to mold and mold spores to produce coughing and wheezing even in healthy adults. In young children and those with asthma or other respiratory problems, those issues can become severe and even life-threatening.

Size Does Matter

Some mold problems can be handled by the homeowner, but others require a professional mold removal or mold remediation contractor. In general, the Centers for Disease Control recommend calling in a professional if the moldy area is more than 10 square feet – about three feet by three feet. Heavily mold-infested areas that are smaller than that or that are located near the heating or cooling system should be cleaned by a mold remediation specialist as well.

There’s More to Mold Remediation than Just Mold Removal

Removing the mold is the easy part. A mold remediation professional will take many more steps than simply removing or killing the mold. Before beginning any work, the contractor will contain the work area to prevent the circulation of mold sports and attempt to ascertain the source of the problem. In many cases, if you know the source of the problem, you can prevent it from happening again.

Once the area is contained, the mold remediation contractor will clean and disinfect the moldy area and remove the infected materials. Finally, the contractor will apply a biocide to kill remaining mold spores and encapsulate the mold to prevent it from becoming reinstated.

If you notice mold growing somewhere in your home, you can contact a mold remediation contractor for an inspection and advice. It’s always better to get professional advice than to take chances with your family’s health.