Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp places. It can be found indoors and outdoors. When mold grows inside your home, it can cause problems for the building and for the people living there. It often appears as fuzzy spots that can be black, green, white, or orange.
Mold spores are tiny and can travel through the air. When these spores are breathed in, they can sometimes cause health issues, especially for people who are sensitive to mold. Common signs include sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, or skin rashes. For others, mold can worsen asthma or cause other respiratory problems. Beyond health, mold can also damage your home's structure, breaking down materials like wood, drywall, and insulation. This is why timely mold removal is so important.
If you see or smell mold in your home, it's usually best to act quickly. Small areas of mold, perhaps less than 10 square feet (about the size of a dinner plate), might be cleaned by a homeowner if the surface is non-porous and the proper safety gear is used. However, for larger areas, or if mold is found after water damage, or if anyone in the household has health concerns related to mold, professional mold removal is strongly recommended. It's also wise to get help if the mold is growing on materials that hold moisture easily, like carpets or drywall.
When you engage mold removal services, a team of trained experts will typically follow a detailed process to safely and effectively remove mold.
First, the affected area is carefully inspected to find all places where mold is growing, even those hidden from plain sight. The source of moisture that allowed the mold to grow is also identified, as stopping the moisture is key to preventing future mold growth.
To prevent mold spores from spreading to other parts of your home during the removal process, the affected area is often sealed off. Special equipment, like air scrubbers and negative air pressure machines, might be used to keep the air clean within the contained space.
Air filtration systems are used to capture airborne mold spores. This helps to clean the air and reduce the risk of further contamination.
The mold-infested materials are carefully removed and disposed of according to safety guidelines. Surfaces are then cleaned using special solutions to eliminate any remaining mold and prevent its return. Porous materials that are heavily contaminated, such as drywall or insulation, are usually removed and replaced.
After cleaning, the area must be thoroughly dried. Dehumidifiers and air movers are used to ensure that all moisture is gone, which is crucial for preventing mold from growing back.
Once the mold has been removed and the area is dry, any damaged parts of your home are repaired. This could involve replacing drywall, flooring, or other materials.
When you're looking for mold removal near me, it's important to choose a reputable and experienced company. An expert mold removal team will have the right certifications, training, and equipment to handle the job safely and effectively. They should also be transparent about their process and provide clear communication every step of the way. Asking for references or checking reviews can help you find a service that meets your needs.