Mold in the basement is a common problem due to frequent moisture problems and the shortage of light and ventilation. If the mold problem in your basement is acute, we strongly advise hiring skilled mold removal solutions. But if the situation is less severe and you choose to clean the mold yourself, follow along with mold removal guidelines:
Evaluate the Size of this Affected Surface
If the mold growth area covers less than 10 square feet, you may be able to take out the mold yourself. However, areas larger than 10 square feet usually need professional mold removal services. Make sure to hire a contractor with expertise in residential or business mold elimination. Visit them here to know more.
Wear Protective Gear
Before entering the cellar to initiate the mold cleanup, wear protective equipment: clothing that covers your whole body, dust filter mask or respirator, goggles, and gloves. During the mold removal process, mold spores will probably be released into the air, and inhaling them is poisonous.
Fix the Moisture Problem
If you make the decision to eliminate mold in your basement, detect and fix the moisture problem first. Mold often happens from the cellar after a flood, in which case you need to quickly eliminate the water. In other instances, moisture is due to condensation or may float through walls, ceiling, or flooring due to leaking pipes or cracked surfaces. Locate and fix the moisture source and dry the moist surfaces.
Find the Mold
When the moisture problem is fixed, detect and get rid of the mold. It could grow on many unique surfaces, such as concrete walls, drywall, wall cavities, ceiling, floor, insulation, furniture, and more. If you are not certain if what you’re taking a look at is mold, consider using a mold test kit that permits you to sample both surfaces and air for mold spores.
Seal off the Basement
When you’re ready to clean out the mold, seal off the cellar to prevent mold spores from spreading into the rest of your house. Use plastic sheets and duct tape to cover openings such as vents or doorways. Additionally, moisten dry mold a bit to prevent mold spores from being stirred up into the air.
Start Cleaning
Scrub off the mold with water and detergent, or use mold-killing merchandise. Porous materials, such as drywall or carpet, may have to be thrown away and replaced. When you’ve completed the mold removal, allow surfaces and things to dry completely. Then, vacuum the space using a HEPA filtered vacuum cleaner.
Prevent Mold from Recurring
Contemplate waterproofing your basement or applying the sealant to walls or flooring after the mold removal is completed. To control the moisture levels in your cellar, use a dehumidifier. Vacuum and clean out the basement once every week to help prevent basement mold. Prevent condensation by insulating exterior walls, roofs, windows, and pipes.
Mold can also grow in different areas of the home, particularly in the restroom. Learn about bathroom mold removal and prevention here. Sometimes, mold may even grow in which you least expect. Figure out where mold can unexpectedly grow in your house in this informative article. For professional Bradenton property restoration, fire, water, and mold removal solutions contact your local PuroClean office.