First, let's go over a quick review of mold. Every kind of mold is a fungus, and share biology with mushrooms and athlete's foot, for example. The mold that is dangerous to you and your family is relatively rare in the fungi world, meaning most kinds aren't harmful. However, some molds are dangerous, so any mold you find indoors must be mitigated and completely removed.
You could consider contacting these black mold removal service Chicago IL services even if you see less mold than that. If you see mold, there is probably hidden mold trapped in drywall and crevices and elsewhere.
Before you contact mold cleanup specialists, the first step is to prevent the mold from getting worse. Turn off any ventilation. Then, work to halt the dripping or condensation that brought the mold in the first place. For example, clear standing water and fix plumbing problems if you can. Then, contain the problem. You could tape off the room with plastic sheeting, for example.
Should you get a mold removal service to help or can you do it by yourself? Beyond thinking about the size of the issue, consider any aggravating health issues you may have that make you prone to risk.
Once you've selected a solution, there are vital steps to take. To do the mold removal yourself, gather supplies such as gloves that reach your forearms, full-coverage clothing, non-ventilated eye protection and approved mold masks. You will probably also need a throwaway tarp and tools to fix drywall, if that's where you found the mold. Mold removal specialists agree that you should not leave unpainted drywall that is moldy anywhere because it can't be cleaned well enough. A note on cleaning with bleach: Skip it. Bleach doesn't work as well other cleaners and often doesn't remediate mold thoroughly and all its spores completely. Bleach also puts off toxic fumes, particularly if it's ever mixed with ammonia-based cleaners. Find better alternatives at the hardware store.
If you're worried enough about mold problems to look for solutions on the web, you will want certified mold removal technicians service. If you choose to hire a mold mitigation company, find one in your area because different kinds of mold thrive in different areas and you need people who know the ideal mold damage mitigation strategies to remove the ones you located in your structure. The more local, the better.
Before you choose any company, check that they are licensed and registered properly and that they are approved by organizations such as the Restoration Industry Association, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration and Contractor Connection. The State Office of Consumer Protection is a good place to begin, and you should check for approval by groups such as as the Restoration Industry Association, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration and Contractor Connection.
Mold that is allowed to grow releases spores, which fly like dandelion seeds and can cause damage to spread in short order. If not, harmful mold will continue to feast on your home or business and can ruin your things. Some types of mold, those that release toxic spores, can also cause major health risks ranging from neurological damage to respiratory and mold-related infections and generally poor health. Mycotoxins can be particularly harmful to infants, children, and anyone with a compromised immune system such as people with AIDS/HIV or lupus.
The best way to mitigate your mold growth is to get professional mold removal help. Don't delay.