Mold is a fairly common issue in many homes today. And while it’s no-so-pleasant to look it, it’s worse to live with. Mold can cause serious damage to your home and your health, which is why it’s crucial that mold is removed immediately. Mold literally eats away your home’s foundation and structure, much like termites, and can bring your home tumbling to the ground if left alone. Not to mention, mold releases spores which you breathe in, causing a host of health problems.
Mold generally grows in dark, damp places, most commonly the basement, bathroom, and kitchen. Before you attempt to remove mold yourself, you need to know that for any mold growing on wood, or in an area larger than 10 feet, you need to call in a professional for mold remediation in Sterling. If the area is small you can attempt to remove the mold yourself, but be sure that the problem is isolated.
Below are some easy tips for DIY mold remediation:
1. Wear Protective Gear – When removing mold you need to take precautions; wear rubber gloves, long sleeves, and long pants. You should also wear a respirator or a mask to protect your lungs. This protective gear is necessary when it comes to removing mold.
2. Dehumidify – Your home probably has damp air if there is mold growing and it needs to be dried out. Opening windows is a great start, but for serious problems you may need a dehumidifier. Turn on the dehumidifier for a few hours before removing the mold and be sure to leave it on for at least a day afterwards. If the problem is recurring, you need to find ways to minimize humidity on a regular basis.
3. Gather Cleaning Items – For small areas of mold you can use some hot water, dish detergent, and a scrubbing brush. You can use this cleaning solution on tile, concrete, metal and glazed ceramic. Scrub the mold hard, you may have to use some elbow grease. If you have mold on other items, like plastic or glass, you can use non-ammonia soap for these areas.
4. Disinfect – Once you’ve cleaned the infested areas and the mold is gone, disinfect the treated areas. You can use a solution of ¼ cup of bleach in a gallon of water and simply apply the solution to the once infested area. Let the solution sit for 15 to 20 minutes and rise off.
These are the four necessary steps when it comes to DIY mold remediation in Sterling. However, if you have a larger problem or the mold continues to come back, you need to hire a professional. Mold remediation is no fun task and by hiring a professional you can ensure your home and family remain safe.
