Guidelines on Basement Mold Removal
Mold in the basement is a common problem due to frequent moisture problems and the shortage of light and ventilation. If the mold problem in your basement is severe, we strongly recommend hiring professional mold removal services. But if the situation is less severe and you opt to clean the mold yourself, follow along with mold removal guidelines:
Evaluate the Size of the Affected Surface
If the mold growth area covers less than 10 square feet, you may have the ability to take out the mold. But areas larger than 10 square feet typically require professional mold removal solutions. Be certain to hire a contractor with expertise in residential or commercial mold elimination.
Wear Protective Gear
Before entering the cellar to start the mold cleanup, wear protective equipment: clothing that covers your entire body, dust filter mask or respirator, gloves, and goggles. During the mold removal process, mold spores will likely be released into the air, and inhaling them is poisonous.
Fix the Moisture Problem
If you decide to remove mold in your cellar, detect and fix the moisture problem first. Mold often happens from the cellar after a flood, in which case you want to rapidly remove water. In other instances, moisture is due to condensation or may float through walls, ceiling, or flooring due to leaking pipes or cracked surfaces. Locate and fix the moisture source and dry the moist surfaces. Check out Sarasota water damage to learn more.
Find the Mold
When the moisture problem is fixed, detect and get rid of the mold. It could grow on many unique surfaces, such as concrete walls, drywall, wall cavities, ceiling, flooring, insulation, furniture, and more. If you are not certain if what you’re taking a look at is mold, consider using a mold test kit that permits you to sample both air and surfaces for mold spores.
Seal off the Basement
When you are ready to wash the mold, then seal off the cellar to prevent mold spores from spreading into the rest of your house. Use plastic sheets and duct tape to cover openings such as doorways or vents. Additionally, moisten dry mold a little to prevent mold spores from being stirred up into the atmosphere.
Start Cleaning
Scrub off the mold with detergent and water, or make use of a mold killing product. Porous materials, such as drywall or carpet, may have to be thrown away and replaced. Once you’ve completed the mold removal, allow surfaces and items to dry completely. Then, vacuum the space with a HEPA filtered vacuum cleaner.
Prevent Mold from Recurring
Contemplate waterproofing your basement or even applying a sealant to walls or flooring after the mold removal is completed. To control the moisture levels in your basement, use a dehumidifier. Vacuum and clean out the basement once every week to help prevent basement mold. Prevent condensation by insulating exterior walls, windows, roofs, and pipes.
Mold can also develop in other areas of the home, especially in the bathroom. Learn about toilet mold removal and prevention here. Sometimes, mold can even grow in what you expect. Figure out where mold can suddenly increase in your home in this informative article. For professional fire, water, and mold restoration solutions, contact your regional PuroClean office or visit this website for more info.
