Tips for Safe Mold Removal
Mold can seem like a minor problem on the surface, but behind the scenes, it shows that you have a much more serious problem. As mold requires moisture to thrive, it is usually a sign there is a leak or buildup of moisture somewhere, and possibly a consequently weakened building structure.
Here are a few tips for safe mold removal. However, if you have a more serious problem and/or the area covered in mold is significant, it is often recommended to enlist the services of a professional company for mold remediation services. Throughout Missouri, including in St. Louis, St. Charles, and Columbia, Advanced Environmental Services can help with professional mold removal services for both homes and businesses. Whether large or small, we can handle all projects safely and professionally. Contact us today to learn more!
Important Steps for Safe Mold Removal
Locating and Stopping the Source of Moisture
The first step in the mold removal process involves isolating and stopping the source of the moisture. The moisture source may be a simple drip of water from a leaky pipe, which can normally be fixed quite easily. However, in most cases, the source of moisture is much worse - this can be from a leaky roof, poor ventilation, or the effects of a flood.
In most cases, locating and fixing the source of moisture will require the assistance of a professional mold removal company.
Removing Mold from Hard Surfaces
Effective mold removal requires more than just cleaning an area and simply painting or replacing caulk over the area is not a solution to the problem. It may look ok, but the mold will not have been killed, so the mold can continue to grow and spread.
If you have mold on hard surfaces, it can be eliminated by physically scrubbing the surface with water and a special fungicidal detergent. While you may think that this is ok to do by yourself, if the right steps are not taken, this can cause mold spores to be released into the air that will settle on any source of moisture they can find.
Therefore, it is recommended to use mold removal companies for any form of mold treatment in order to limit any further contamination to surrounding areas and exposure to family members.
Addressing Areas that Cannot be Cleaned
An unfortunate effect of a mold problem is that it will destroy any porous materials that it comes in contact with. This can include fabrics such as draperies, furniture, and carpets as well as building materials such as wood or dry wall surfaces in your home. Therefore, these materials will need to be removed and replaced.
If ceiling tiles, wooden beams, or supports have been affected, the extent of the work needed will require skilled craftsmen to remove and replace the damaged materials without weakening the building structure.
Drying the Area
As the final step in the mold removal process, the whole area must be thoroughly dried. Opening all doors and windows may seem like enough, but to eradicate moisture to the extent required, you will need a sealed environment and the use of industrial fans and humidifiers.
Thinking an area is sufficiently dry is not enough. Air quality and surfaces must be checked for any signs of remaining moisture in order to prevent mold from re-growing. Professionals have expertise in creating negative air environments, which aids in drying the surrounding areas from any signs of moisture.
Contact Our Mold Removal Specialists in Missouri
Although the given advice may seem like something easily done yourself, mold can cause serious health problems if not treated correctly. In order to obtain a professional assessment and competitive quote for mold removal in St. Louis, St. Charles, or Columbia, MO, contact the experts at Advanced Environmental Services today!
