Removing mold is essential before more problems arise. Ignoring the issue can be detrimental to your health and that of your family, and can even lead to re-infestation if you try to get rid of the mold on your own. Whether or not you should hire a professional for mold removal depends on the size of the affected area and your level of experience. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests that if the mold area is less than 10 square feet, you can take care of it yourself.
However, if the mold is caused by contaminated water or if you have allergies, it is best to seek professional help. In addition, renovation may be necessary once the mold remediation has been completed. In extreme cases, your home can be left in ruins if the mold problem is not detected early enough. Mold allergens can cause mild to severe symptoms when touched or inhaled, and symptoms may be delayed. If you are not familiar with mold, it may be difficult to recognize the signs even if they are present.
A simple solution is to spray the mold with a bleach-based cleaner and clean it with a bleach-based cleaner. It is important to address areas where mold can spread, such as the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system and ducts. Carpets, floors and soft furniture may need to be replaced if the type of mold present in the house spreads to textiles. The underlying 2×4 structure should also be cleaned with a little bit of the same over-the-counter mold remover.
In addition, ducts often need treatment after the affected area has been treated to prevent the spread of mold. Testing for mold can help you identify the type of mold you're facing and develop a plan of attack. You can bring that estimate to your real estate agent or sellers and ask them to address the solution before the escrow closes or to offer you a reduction in the purchase price of the property. If the infestation covers more than 10 square feet or if you can smell the mold but cannot see it, a professional should be consulted. Removing mold requires an N95 mask, personal protective equipment, cleaning supplies such as soap and water, plus disposal equipment. Mold also gives off a strong musty smell and appears in areas such as bathrooms that may have high humidity.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), mold remediation projects smaller than 10 square feet can generally be addressed by the homeowner as long as the mold was not caused by wastewater and they have no respiratory sensitivity. In conclusion, it is important to take action when dealing with a mold infestation. If it is small enough, you may be able to take care of it yourself; however, if it is larger or caused by contaminated water or allergies, it is best to seek professional help. Knowing how to test for mold can help you identify the type of mold you're facing and develop a plan of attack.
