Mold Removal and Remediation – What You Need to Know
If you think you have mold in your home, you should really have that checked out! Most people who have mold don’t even know it, and when they do see it, they don’t recognize it or don’t know what to do about it. Mold can be a health hazard, however, and mold removal and remediation may be needed to make your home safe again.
What should I know about mold?
Well, first you should understand what mold is. Mold is an occurring fungus that produces spores. These can spread through the air and produce new mold growth almost anywhere that moisture and a food source are available.
Where can I find mold?
Anyplace that holds moisture can be a hiding spot for mold! This includes:
- Basements
- Bathrooms
- Laundry rooms
- Around leaky toilets
- Any areas with slow leaks in plumbing
- Cracks in the foundation
- Any area with pre-existing water damage
Moisture provides the perfect breeding ground for mold. The first hint that you may have a mold problem that requires a mold removal service to be called in is a musty odor, so always check for mold if you notice a dusty, sour smell, especially in the locations mentioned above.
What harm can mold do?
Some people are particularly sensitive to mold, and can have respiratory problems or allergic reactions. This could be a challenge or even a danger to people who already have allergies, asthma or other breathing problems.
In addiction, there are specific types of poisonous mold that are toxic. These can be tested for, and if present a mold removal and remediation service should be brought in to address the problem and the house vacated until the issue is dealt with.
What steps should be taken if I find mold?
If you find mold, don’t try to scrub it away or otherwise disturb it. Call The Dry Guys and tell us what the mold looks like. We may come out to your house to inspect the mold and identify it before planning a course of action.
Basement mold or mold in an attic can often be dealt with then prevented from returning by taking steps to eliminate moisture. The same holds true for bathrooms or laundry rooms. Vents and exhaust fans can be used as well as air conditioners and de-humidifiers.
If you have moldy ceiling tiles, replace them. Hard, non-porous surfaces can be cleansed of mold with water and detergent, and thoroughly dried. If you have a water damage issue, make sure floors, walls, furniture and other items are completely dried out as soon as possible to prevent mold.
Add insulation around windows pipes, exterior walls, floors and roofs to help reduce condensation that can cause moist spots ripe for mold growth.
Remember, mold can grow almost anywhere, given the right conditions! Be vigilant and keep mold out of your home – and if you do find mold, call the Dry Guys for mold remediation and removal.