Mold can not only destroy your property, but it is also harmful to your health. The most common household areas where mold grows are warm, damp places such as the bathroom and the basement. By learning a few mold removal tips and remedies and being aware of what mold removal services do, you can get rid of it from your home quite easily.
Mold removal tips
Check for plumbing leaks
Any source of moisture, such as plumbing leaks, has to be resolved. Moisture causes mold to grow and thrive. Identifying the sources of leaks, drips, and moisture and getting them fixed is essential.
Dry the area
If the area has standing water, you need to dry it out fast to prevent mold growth. Make use of fans and dehumidifiers to get the air flowing and for the moisture to dry out.
Use an antimicrobial spray
Once the moisture has dried, spray the area with an antimicrobial treatment to prevent mold from growing.
Wear protection
Before you start cleaning the mold, wear a respirator or facemask and rubber gloves. A mask will prevent you from inhaling spores. Utility-grade disposable gloves will help protect your skin.
Avoid covering up the mold
Avoid the temptation to wipe away the mold and paint or caulk moldy surfaces. You need to first prevent the moisture from coming back. Without solving this issue, the paint applied is likely to peel.
Remedies
Here are some natural remedies you can use to get rid of mold.
Tea tree oil
This essential oil can help remove mold. It is a natural cleaning agent that helps prevent mold spores from coming back. Combine a teaspoon of this essential oil with a cup of water in a spray bottle. Shake the mixture and apply it to the moldy area. Leave it for an hour to dry and then wipe with a dry cloth.
Baking soda
Baking soda is a readily available ingredient in every kitchen. It is natural, non-toxic, and effective in preventing mold and absorbing mildew odors. Make a thick paste with equal parts water and baking soda. Spread it on the affected mold areas and let it dry. Scrub and rinse the residue with clean water.
Vinegar
Vinegar is an affordable, natural, safe, and effective solution for removing black mold. Spray undiluted vinegar and leave it on the moldy surface. Wipe away the mold from the area with a disposable cloth.
Hydrogen peroxide
If you want to obstruct mold growth, hydrogen peroxide is another safe antibacterial and antifungal remedy. Mix one part of 3% hydrogen peroxide with two parts of water in a spray bottle. Let the solution sit for some time, and then scrub the moldy area with it. Wipe off the mold and let the area dry.
Chlorine bleach
Regular household bleach also works effectively to destroy mold. In a spray bottle, mix one-part bleach with three parts of water and spray wherever there is mold. Once the bleach soaks in, use a scrub brush to remove the mold.
Services
Mold from large areas cannot be removed with household cleaners and requires heavy-duty chemicals. If the area of mold is 10 or more square feet, it is time to call a professional to resolve the issue.
Many companies offer mold removal services. A certified specialist will help to detect, assess, and treat mold problems. From inspection, containment, and removal to clean up and sanitization, these mold removal companies take care of the entire process. In addition, if the furniture, walls, or other parts of the infrastructure has been affected by mold, these companies also offer repair and restoration services.
The cost of mold removal services will vary as it largely depends on the type of service you need, the size of the area affected by the mold, and if any reconstruction repairs need to be carried out. Mold removal companies have the expertise and knowledge about what might be causing mold and also the best way to prevent it.
