Want to know how to get rid of mold the right way? Keep reading.
Finding the telltale signs of a mold problem is always a cause for concern. Even if you don’t know what type of mold it is or how it got there, one thing’s for sure…you want it gone!
But don’t reach for that can of Kilz just yet.
It’s important to know how to get rid of mold properly so that it doesn’t rear its ugly head again. Because mold growth doesn’t just “return,” it goes to the gym and comes back ready to rumble!
And the only way to ensure that you’ve completely gotten rid of the mold is to let a pro handle the job.
While some molds are beneficial (such as penicillin) or downright enjoyable (blue cheese dressing, anyone?), the vast majority of mold strains found inside Florida homes are the kind that lead to serious hazards. The good news is that not all mold is black mold
Mold colonies can lead to unpleasant odor and even health issues, such as headache, sore throat, congestion, and asthma attacks. But even if you’re one of the lucky few who doesn’t have a sensitivity to mold, that infestation could be putting your home at risk.
Mold spores can settle into porous surfaces, ceiling tiles, or any other surface. Unfortunately, mold can also cause structural damage.
Mold removal should only be done by a state licensed mold remediator and should adhere to a protocol set by a state licensed mold assessor.
Mold spores are extremely small and mold growths can be very difficult to eradicate. An inexperienced, unlicensed homeowner will not be able to tell the difference between a minor or severe infestation.
The mold you can see may only be a small portion of the infestation. The rest of the colony may extend behind your drywall, into support beams, or under floors and cabinets. Left untreated, it will spread even farther.
Only a licensed mold assessor can accurately determine the extent of mold present in your home. They use a combination of methods—such as air testing and physical inspection—to find the location and severity of the infestation.
Having such detailed information provides a better idea of how to get rid of your mold problem in the most thorough and efficient manner.
A mold remediator’s job is to remove the mold in a way that doesn’t reintroduce it into your home. If you simply rip down the moldy drywall and chuck it in the trash can, you’ll be releasing mold spores into the air. These mold spores can then easily find a place to settle down in your home and grow a new colony.
No one wants to play “Whack-a-Mold!”
We’ve seen what can happen when an unlicensed company—or worse yet, an inexperienced homeowner only wearing a face mask!—is put in charge of a mold removal.
No matter what you have heard, you should know that mold can never be “cleaned.” If a mold remediation specialist has told you that mold remediation is required, it’s best to listen. In order to get rid of mold, you need to completely remove the affected materials.
The first step is to prevent the mold from spreading. Axel Works will put up airtight barriers with polyethylene sheeting to contain the mold. Depending on the extent of the infestation, we may install air scrubbers to clean mold spores from both inside and outside the affected area.
Next, the infested materials need to be carefully cut out and removed. Our remediation team is always careful to follow the recommendations of the EPA, including the use of hazmat suits and respiratory protection (such as N95 masks and respirators).
Taking these precautions ensures that both your home and our team are kept safe.
Once the mold has been removed, we HEPA vacuum the area and spray a substance called Decon 30. This EPA-approved chemical penetrates porous surfaces to kill all mold, fungi, and yeast, as well as their spores.
Afterward, a mold assessor will test the air quality again to make sure the mold has been removed.
Water remediation is another step in the mold removal process that cannot be ignored.
Mold requires water—and lots of it—to survive. If there is an active mold colony, that means there is an accumulation of water as well. This might have been due to a leak, flood, or even a window left open during a storm.
Part of the mold remediation process (one might argue, the most important part) involves assessing water damage, extracting the water, drying out the affected areas and addressing the source of the water intrusion.
Axel Works uses a collection of industrial fans to circulate moisture from the object into the air and dehumidifiers to remove the moisture from the air.
Once the moisture and mold have been successfully removed, we will rebuild the damaged areas so that you can get back to your daily life with as little stress as possible. (This is also a great time for that kitchen or bathroom renovation you’ve been thinking about. We do remodeling, too!)
Sometimes mold damage cannot be prevented due to a catastrophic loss or other water damage out of your control.
Other instances, with a little perservearance, mold remediation can be avoided completely with some preventative measures on your part.
Little things like utilizing a dehumidifier to keep the air dry inside your home, make sure clothes dry completely before putting them away (and don’t keep wet towels bunched up on the bed!), and using a bathroom fan to help with humidity after a bath or shower can work wonders.
Trying to get rid of mold is not the same thing as knowing how to get rid of mold.
When it comes to mold, water, fire damage, or any other disaster cleanup, DON’T attempt to do it yourself! Mold is dangerous, pervasive, and nearly impossible to remove without a professional mold remediation company.
Of course, your best course of action is to prevent mold from growing in the first place by monitoring your home for water leaks and intrusion, using dehumidifiers, and promoting air circulation. And if you do experience a flood, leak, or other water damage, have it cleaned up thoroughly…before mold can make its home there.
Luckily, Axel Works is here to help with any disaster life throws your way!
From fires to floods and everything in between, our crew has the knowledge and skill to get the job done right the first time. Call today! We’re available 24/7 with prompt, attentive service.
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