A mold infestation inside homes produces more than unsightly views. Improper and insufficient mold handling leads to health risks and considerable property damage. Receiving a positive mold test is a wake-up call to address the issue. This blog provides detailed instructions for addressing mold problems in homes safely and in a timely manner.
Understanding Mold Problems In Homes
0″>Understanding the mold problems is important before problem-solving. Mold is a fungus that thrives in wet and humid spaces. It easily colonizes different surfaces within buildings, such as walls, ceilings, carpets, and insulation materials. The most typical mold breeding zones within residences lie in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
The most common types of household molds are Aspergillus, Cladosporium, and Stachybotrys. The last one is known by its more popular name, black mold. When neglected, mold can trigger allergy symptoms, respiratory problems, and potentially severe health effects.
Mold exposure creates three main health symptoms, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identifies as coughing, wheezing, and nasal congestion. Once mold detection occurs, it is vital to begin reducing health risks by treating mold issues in residential environments.
Steps To Address Mold Problems After A Positive Test Result
Mold discovery during tests should not fill you with panic because you can take corrective action. The process to manage this situation includes the following specific steps.
Identify The Source of Moisture
Wet conditions serve as the essential and ideal condition for mold growth, so you should start by locating any moist areas.
- To adequately address the mold problem, identify pipe leaks, ventilation issues, and humidity levels.
- To detect moisture leaks, pay attention to areas beneath sinks and behind walls, plus the space surrounding home appliances.
- Adequate ventilation needs attention because both bathrooms and kitchens should receive proper ventilation.
- A dehumidifier must be used to control excessive moisture in the air.
Mold will continue to resurface if you only perform temporary mold removal steps, and solving the water leakage at its source is essential.
Examine The Extent Of Mold Growth
Next, determine the severity of mold growth. While homeowners can handle light mold growth independently, contact professionals to deal with extensive mold infestations.
- You can handle a mold problem of less than 10 square feet by yourself.
- Mold spores trigger respiratory issues, so you must protect yourself.
- To prevent mold spore inhalation, wear gloves, goggles, and an N95 mask.
- Open air circulation by windows and fans will help ventilate the contaminated space.
You should never disturb mold before taking the proper safety measures, as doing so lets mold spores enter the air.
Remove And Clean Affected Areas
A minor mold contamination can be treated by washing and cleaning the affected areas. Here’s how:
- Use soap and water to scrub away visible mold. The area should be dried entirely to stop mold from spreading further.
- Porous objects, including carpets, drywall, and insulation, are typically impossible to completely clean. In this situation, taking them out and replacing them becomes the essential solution.
- Contact a professional mold removal service for extensive mold problems; professional intervention will provide the best results.
Use Mold-Resistant Products For Prevention
First, deal with the ongoing mold issue before moving forward with prevention measures. Mold growth in the future can be avoided by using mold-resistant paints, sealants, and cleaning solutions. Use mold-resistant products to minimize mold occurrence in high-humidity environments like bathrooms and basements.
Your home requires proper ventilation, and you should promptly fix all leaks to minimize the chances of mold growth.
Consider Mold Remediation Professionals
Severe home mold cases require consulting professionals from mold remediation companies for maximum protection of your property and health. Mold removal experts also perform mold tests, inspect the air quality, and manage excess moisture as part of their services.
Professionals use HEPA vacuums, air scrubbers, and other specialized equipment to effectively remove mold and ensure safe air quality in homes.
Prevention Tips For Mold Problems In Homes
After resolving your mold problem, you must establish measures to stop new growth. The following tips will aid you in preventing mold growth in your home.
- Excess moisture requires immediate attention because water should never accumulate in your home.
- A combination of air conditioners and dehumidifiers should be used to keep indoor humidity between 30% and 50%.
- Adequate airflow needs to be ensured in areas with excessive moisture within a home.
- Routine cleaning activities help avoid mold infestation.
Facts And Figures About Mold Problems
Information reveals that mold infestation occurs in one-third of all homes throughout the United States. When moisture remains for 24-48 hours, mold will start to grow, so leakage issues will be promptly resolved.
The expenses for professional mold remediation services typically start at $1500 and reach up to $9,000, depending on the extent of mold growth and the square footage of the affected area. The price tag for small mold problems ranges between $500 and $1000.
Conclusion
Taking quick steps enables you to safeguard your house and your health from mold problems. The first step involves finding moisture sources while properly evaluating the scale of the problem and implementing correct safety procedures.
Early mold intervention, either through personal handling or professional services, is the most important measure to prevent lasting harm.
Do not delay when your mold test results point to mold problems. RJ Home Inspections provides comprehensive mold inspection services to detect and resolve mold problems in their early stages. Connect with our team to schedule an inspection that safeguards your home’s safety and health.