Throughout the years, homeowners have cringed at the site of mold in the home. Any mold in large quantities can be hazardous to one’s health. If mold growth is minimal, however, a confident homeowner can take these steps to remove it and prevent its effects.
1. Control the moisture. Mold thrives on moisture. If the source of moisture is eliminated, the mold will be unable to continue growing. Leaks should be fixed. If the room is poorly ventilated, a fan may be used or windows may be opened.
2. Dry all areas thoroughly. The mold cannot be properly cleaned until the area is dry. Use towels and fans to ensure that the area is no longer wet.
3. Scrub the affected areas with a 1-to-8 bleach/water solution. Wear waterproof gloves and old clothing when doing so. Allow the solution to thoroughly penetrate the surface and dry on its own.
4. Run a dehumidifier in the room for three days. You may also add fans. This will help to ensure that the humidity level is lowered, and that the environment is not sustainable for re-growth.
5. Discard any porous or absorbent materials, such as carpets and ceiling tiles. It is nearly impossible to properly clean these.
Defeating mold in your home is a two-pronged effort. The homeowner must remove the existing mold and then prevent its return. It is futile to clean an area which will continue to be moist. The mold will return.
Remember that in many cases, a professional is needed to ensure that cross-contamination does not occur. Additional techniques are also available for more thorough detection and removal, but are only possible with the technology used by a mold remediation specialist.
For more information on the services of Mold Terminator, Inc., call (901) 877-8855 or e-mail us at [email protected].
References:
1. Environmental Protection Agency. www.epa.gov. 3 March 2016
2. The Family Handyman. www.familyhandyman.com. 3 March 2016
