31 Jan Mold Mayhem? What to Do Before the Professionals Arrive

Discovering mold in your home can be alarming. Before you call in the mold remediation experts, however, there are several steps you can take to prepare your home and protect yourself. While you shouldn’t attempt to fully remediate a significant mold problem yourself, preliminary cleanup can make the remediation process smoother and potentially less expensive. Remember, most Long Beach Mold Remediation companies will tell you that safety is paramount – if you have any health concerns related to mold exposure, consult a medical professional immediately.

Understanding the Limits

It’s crucial to understand that you should only attempt to clean up small, isolated areas of mold. If the mold covers a large area (more than 10 square feet), is embedded in porous materials, or shows signs of significant growth, you should not attempt to clean it yourself. Contacting a professional mold remediation company is essential in these cases.

Safety First

Before starting any cleanup, protect yourself. Wear protective gear, including:

• N95 respirator: This is crucial to prevent inhaling mold spores.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from mold and cleaning solutions.
• Eye protection: Shield your eyes from splashes and irritants.
• Long sleeves and pants: Cover as much skin as possible.

Identifying the Source

Before cleaning, try to identify the source of the moisture that allowed the mold to grow. This is crucial for preventing future mold growth. Common sources include leaks, condensation, and poor ventilation. Addressing the source is just as important as cleaning the mold itself.

Cleaning Small Mold Areas

For small areas of mold (less than 10 square feet) on non-porous surfaces like tile or glass, follow these steps:

1. Prepare the area: Ventilate the room as much as possible by opening windows and doors.
2. Protect the surrounding area: Cover surrounding surfaces with plastic sheeting to prevent mold spores from spreading.
3. Clean the mold: Use a solution of water and a mild detergent (like dish soap). Scrub the area gently with a brush or sponge. Avoid harsh chemicals, which can spread mold spores.
4. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water.
5. Dry completely: Ensure the area is completely dry. Use fans to help with air circulation.

What NOT to Do

• Don’t use bleach: While bleach kills mold, it can also release harmful gases and may not be effective on all types of mold.
• Don’t scrub aggressively: This can spread mold spores.
• Don’t use a vacuum cleaner: This can spread mold spores into the air.
• Don’t attempt to clean mold in porous materials: Mold often penetrates porous materials like drywall, wood, and carpet. These materials usually need professional remediation.

Preparing for the Professionals

Once you’ve cleaned what you safely can, take photos of the affected areas. This will help the remediation company assess the extent of the damage. Clear the area around the affected zone to provide easy access for the professionals. If possible, remove any loose or damaged materials.

Conclusion

While you can take steps to clean up small areas of mold yourself, remember that safety and proper remediation are paramount. Don’t hesitate to contact a professional mold remediation company if you’re unsure about handling the situation or if the mold infestation is extensive. Early intervention and professional help are key to preventing further damage and protecting your health. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and efficient remediation process.