Mold growth is a serious problem here in the US and can cause severe health and structural problems. The secret to dealing with mold is to have it removed quickly to prevent further damage. In some cases, DIY mold removal is enough to address the problem. However, some cases should be left to certified mold removal specialists.
But when should you call a certified and experienced mold removal specialist? Keep reading to discover more.
Why is Mold Infestation Dangerous?
While a bit of mold is no reason to panic, exposure to rapid mold growth indoors and outdoors can cause serious problems. Mold growth can cause allergic reactions, toxicity, and fungal infections.
Studies also suggest that mold can cause asthma, pulmonary hemorrhage, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Moreover, mold feeds on organic matter and can cause severe structural damages to materials like carpets, ceiling tiles, wooden stands, drywall, wallpaper, floorboards, support beams, and more.
Failure to deal with the issue quickly can collapse your building or structures like the roof and ceiling. It can also reduce your curb appeal by ruining your walls and paints. This will also reduce the resale value of your property.
What are the Common Areas for Mold Growth?
Mold spores thrive in areas with poor ventilation and moisture. Identifying these places can help you deal with a mold infestation problem before it gets out of hand. So, keep reading to discover top places for mold infestation.
Bathrooms
Mold can thrive in bathrooms with poor ventilation and enough natural light. When checking the bathroom, pay attention to the area around your bathtub and toilet. Remember also to check the walls near your water heater and the bathroom mat. Toothbrush holders and overused damp towels can also promote mold growth.
The Living Room
Although most homeowners don’t expect to find mold in the living room or home office, it can happen, especially if you don’t have enough ventilation or natural light. Damp objects and furniture around your living room can also promote mold growth.
Kitchen
Your kitchen might have all the perfect conditions to encourage mold growth. Damp appliances and kitchen towels can attract and promote the growth of mold. Also, check the trash bin, cabinet, and plumbing fixtures. Leaving a pile of dirty dishes can also cause mold problems in your home. Even clean dishes that haven’t been dried completely are perfect breeding areas for mold.
Laundry Room
Like your kitchen, the laundry room also has ideal conditions to encourage mold growth. Lack of enough ventilation and light in your laundry room make for the perfect breeding spot for mold. When checking for signs of mold in your laundry room, remember to pay close attention to the seals of your washing machine and other appliances.
You should also check the drains and plumbing fixtures for leaks and condensation.
Attics and Basements
The dust, dampness, and darkness in your attics and basement are ideal conditions for mold Infestation and growth. Plumbing issues in your basements and attics can also promote the growth of mold in your home.
Bedroom
Your bedroom is probably the worst place to have mold. This is because inhaling the spores while sleeping can cause serious health issues. Unfortunately, damp mattresses can promote mold growth. Moreover, mold can grow on the drywall, wallpapers, and floor mats.
How to Stop Mold Growth on Your Own
Now that you know how to spot mold growth in your home, it is time to discuss tips for preventing and stopping mold growth.
Stopping Mold Growth in Your Bathroom
You can prevent mold growth in your bathroom by replacing sealants or caulking that is already susceptible to mold. Using safe and effective chemicals like vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and bleach can also stop mold growth in your bathroom.
It is also best to remove damp towels and objects. You can also keep the bathroom windows open to enhance ventilation.
Stopping Mold Growth in Your Attic and Basement
When you spot mold growth in your attic or basement, you should immediately remove all objects and carpets. Clean the materials with a proven cleaning agent and leave them to dry before arranging them back neatly. You can also spray vinegar, borax, or bleach to the walls, windows, plumbing fixtures and leave it to dry for some hours.
Remember to make sure your basement and attic are dry before returning all the items.
Stopping Mold Growth in the Kitchen
If you notice mold infestation in your kitchen, removing damp kitchen towels and sealants is wise. Also, check the plumbing fixtures for leaking and plumbing. You can use vinegar, borax, or bleach to remove mold on the walls and the floor. Remember to open the windows to improve ventilation.
When to Call Professional Mold Removal Experts
Even though most homeowners think they are saving money and time by dealing with mold infestation on their own, it is wise to contact professionals if the infestation covers more than 10square ft. Hiring professional mold removal services is also recommended if you spot mold growth on your drywalls, carpets, and other porous surfaces.
Even after removing the mold on your own, it is still essential to ask professionals to inspect your home. Professional mold removal experts have the expertise and tools to spot mold growth in inaccessible areas.
Hiring professional services comes with various benefits, including:
Free Mold Inspection
Most professional mold infestation removal experts offer free inspection before and after the service to evaluate the success of the process.
Professional Expertise
Professional mold control experts have the knowledge and experience to determine the nature and extent of the damage. They also know the right conditions for mold growth and can accurately determine the correct cleanup procedure.
State of the Art Equipment and Technology
Mold control specialists use the latest technology a d professional equipment to identify and stop mold growth in your home.
Final Thoughts
Mold Infestation can cause serious health issues and structural damage. Although you might be convinced to deal with the problem yourself, it is best to contact professionals for quality and comprehensive mold removal.
