Steps For Proper Mold Removal
Mold is a nuisance, and not only is it a health hazard, but it gives the home an unpleasant and musty smell. If left unattended for long, it affects the respiratory health of people living in the house. It is an allergen that causes individuals to suffer from lung diseases and severe asthma problems. Below is a step-by-step approach to mold removal.
Protection And Assessment
The person assessing the mold has to be adequately protected to minimize inhaling a lot of it, which may cause severe effects on the respiratory system. An individual working on the mold must wear a protective outfit to reduce contact with the fungus. Cover the mouth, eyes, nose, ears, hands, and face to minimize exposure to the spores.
Once dressed for work, identify the location supporting mold growth. Moisture supports mold growth, and the person assessing the situation has to search for mold colonies in damp areas. Assess the kitchen sink, bathrooms, and carpet floor. Identify what kind of mold is sprouting to determine the removal technique. A mild mold means that water and a stiff brush might be all that is needed to remove it. Severe cases, however, require more potent chemicals to obliterate mold colonies.
Document The Mold Problem
Before initializing mold removal and cleanup, documenting the mold situation with photos, video, and writing is essential. A mold testing Reno, NV supervisor uses the documentation to establish a plan to handle the overall task. Documentation enables the team doing the work to do a thorough mold removal once the process begins.
It is advantageous as it facilitates formulating a plan to clean up the mold. It helps one determine the contamination levels to take the proper preventative measures before cleaning up.
Containment
Prepare the work area by removing personal items from the location. Items should be covered with heavy plastic sheets to ensure they are not contaminated with mold. Seal off the working area with duct tape sheets and heavy plastic to contain mold spores. Tape plastic over any air conditioning or heating vents as well.
The room is sealed with polythene sheets to prevent the air inside from leaking through window and door openings to other rooms. Additional preventative measures include switching off the HVAC system and fans.
Mold Removal
The technique employed is determined by the nature of mold growth. Mild mold growth is brushed off by using detergent and water. Perform thorough scrubbing to do away with the mold permanently. If the mold growth is severe and widespread, an advanced approach is recommended. Biochemicals help to get rid of fungus inside the house thoroughly. Those cleaning have to get rid of carpets which cannot be salvaged by carefully wrapping them in plastic double-layered coverings, after which they are disposed of in the garbage.
Vacuum And Encapsulation
Cleaning the affected areas is followed by drying and encapsulation to prevent mold infestation in the future. Dry the surfaces with a high-efficiency particulate air vacuum to suck minute mold pieces and remove all the moisture. Encapsulate the area after vacuuming by applying paint or a layer of unique whitewash to prevent mold growth in the future.
Get rid of the mold once the signs of mold growth start to be seen in the house. Mold accumulation causes the rotting of wooden parts and is a serious health hazard when left unattended. Deprive the mold of moisture by fixing all leaking pipes as soon as leaks are detected, which proves worthwhile in the long run.