Moisture in a home can lead to dangerous issues that require resolution. You may notice unsightly stains and damage to walls, ceilings, and flooring. Porous materials can be especially at risk for significant contamination. When this happens, you must undertake a mold removal project to restore your home. Fix the Problem Before you work on mold removal, find the source of the issue to repair it. If you don't undertake the necessary repairs first, the dampness will continue to return and cause further problems. Plumbing leaks around pipes are a common source of moisture in a house. Leaks through foundational walls are also typical, causing headaches in basements. Dampness may also occur around ductwork or from leaks in the roof. Determine where and how the moisture is entering the house, and make whatever repairs are necessary to stop it. This may require the assistance of a professional, depending on the issue. Assessing Surfaces First, determine the extent of the damage. You might see cracked or peeling paint on a wall or ceiling, which can indicate that an issue may be lurking where you cannot see it. Bulging drywall or ceiling tiles are also clues about potential damage. As the dampness grows, you will notice tiny spots on surfaces. The spots can be a variety of colors, including black, gray, brown, or even pink. Odors may also accompany moisture problems. If you smell a mustiness in specific areas, this could also indicate a problem lurking where you can't see it, such as behind walls, above ceilings, below floors, or in the ductwork. As you perform your assessment, realize that you may not be able to clean all surfaces. Some porous surfaces may need to be removed and replaced instead of cleaned. Examples of porous materials include ceiling tiles, drywall, carpeting, and insulation. Cleaning Tips After fixing the source of the moisture and assessing the damage, it's time to begin mold removal tasks. Wear protective clothing while you work, including plastic gloves, long sleeves and pants, and goggles. You might also consider wearing a respirator to reduce the risk of inhaling airborne spores. Use a mixture of chlorine bleach and water to scrub hard surfaces. After removing the discoloration on surfaces, dry them completely with absorbent towels or by directing an electric fan onto the area. Run an air scrubber with an HEPA filter in the area to capture airborne spores. Preventing Future Issues Monitor the area after mold removal to ensure that it stays free of moisture. If you see signs of returning mildew, this indicates that you have not solved the underlying issues. In this case, it may be time to consult a professional for assistance. You may also have success by using an antimicrobial spray in an area, which can prevent mildew from returning. Spray the problem area regularly to control growth. With attention to detail and a little effort, you can rid your house of potentially dangerous mildew to maintain a clean and healthy environment. When considering mold removal, Grand Rapids residents visit VanDam and Krusinga. Learn more at http://www.vk1call.com/property-damage-restoration/mold/.
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