If You've Experienced a Flood and Need to Find a Restoration Company

First, let's go over a quick review of what mold is. All molds are fungi, just like mushrooms and lichens, for example. The mold that is toxic to humans is relatively uncommon in the fungi world, meaning most kinds you find in your house or business aren't harmful. However, some toxic molds are dangerous, so any mold in your home or business must be mitigated and completely removed.

That means calling a mold damage repair company is best. When you see any frightening mold growth, however, it's wise to call for cleanup assistance from professional mold removal services. Certified technicians 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 getting worse. Turn off any HVAC systems. Next, work to stop the dripping or condensation that supplied the mold. For example, fix leaky faucets or dry out standing water if you can. Next, stop it from spreading. You might tape off the area in question with plastic sheeting, for example.

Next, you're ready to figure out whether to get mold damage removal help. Think about not only the mold area, but also any exacerbating health issues you may have. Allergy or asthma sufferers who have trouble breathing, for example, should avoid mold mitigation activities.

Once you've decided, there are important things to do in either direction. If you're going at it alone, get started with gathering the right equipment and clothing. You'll need airtight goggles, coveralls that are easy to wash and that cover your arms and legs, a mold-safe mask and mold-approved gloves that reach at least to your forearms. You will also want new disposable sponges and a disposable tarp or two that will help catch mold spores as you remove them. Health officials agree that you should never leave drywall that has mold on it anywhere you find it because it can't be cleaned thoroughly. A note on cleaning with bleach: Skip it. Any bleach doesn't work as well other alternatives and often doesn't kill mold and all its spores completely. Most bleach is bad to breathe, particularly if it's ever mixed with substances such as Windex, which contains ammonia. You can get better alternatives at the hardware store.

If you're concerned enough about mold damage to research, you need a professional mold removal service. For example, don't hire a mitigation service focused in humid climates.

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

Mold damage left to grow releases spores, which act like seeds and can cause damage to spread very quickly. If you don't, mold growths will keep eating on your home or business and will ruin your possessions. Some types of mold, those that release mycotoxins, can also cause major health problems ranging from neurological damage to breathing problems and mold-related illnesses and ongoing ill health. Mycotoxins can be particularly dangerous for infants, children, and anyone with a compromised immune system .

The smartest way to mitigate your mold growth is to get professional mold damage cleanup help. Don't hesitate.

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