Category: Mold-Mildew - Topic: Rule Number One Never Tackle Mold On Your Own
Rule number one: never tackle mold on your own. Contact a licensed mold remediation specialist who should identify the source of the excess moisture and remove the mold by taking the following steps: Seal off the affected area with plastic sheeting and tape, preventing mold spores from being distributed throughout the home. Use a wet vacuum to clean up standing water, water soaked surfaces and the mold itself. A dry vacuum will only make matters worse by launching mold spores back into the air. Use an approved fungicide in a sprayer or fogger to kill the mold- simply using bleach won't work. Clean the area thoroughly by scrubbing, scraping and cleaning up dust and debris with a HEPA vacuum and removing building materials, furniture and anything else contaminated by the mold. Dry out the area completely using fans and dehumidifiers before doing any restoration work. Leaving the area moist will only facilitate more mold growth. Other measures that will help with mold remediation are having the air ducts professionally cleaned, installing an electrostatic air filter and hiring a professional service to clean all the carpet and upholstery.