Whenever you home sustains some degree of water damage there is the possibility of mold to begin growing. This can be from simple moisture build-up issues in areas that are not properly ventilated to more severe cases such as flooding or leaky foundations within the home. If left untreated mold has the potential of causing very serious health conditions for the occupants of the residential or commercial building structure. Some of the more common health related problems that mold spores can cause are respiratory infections, bronchial problems, allergy type symptoms and even skin reactions. In serious cases mold spores can even cause pre-mature death to the person who is affected by them.
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Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Locate The Source
If your mold problem is due to water leaking into the home, you will need to locate the source of the leak. This may be cracks within the basement or foundation wall structures, windows that are not sealed correctly or around areas that run into the home such as pipes and utility lines that may not be properly sealed. When you have located the area that is leaking into the home you will need to perform the necessary repairs so that this cannot continue.
If your mold problem is due to a build-up of moisture, you will need to provide ventilation to the area so that fresh air is circulated correctly. This may require installing fan systems, ventilation systems or installing windows so the area can be aired out from time to time.
Step 2: Remove Excess Water
Remove any water that is lying in the area. Due to the risks associated with mold and the mold spores you should always wear protective gear including a respirator mask that is designed to cover your nose and mouth, gloves, rubber boots, protective eye cover, and covering over your clothes. The best way to remove excess water is to use a wet/dry vacuum or sump pump for areas that are flooded. To completely dry out the area make sure that you open windows and turn on ventilation fans that will help dry out furniture and carpeting. You should remove furniture and other items to the exterior of the home if it is sunny and warm outside.
Step 3: Spray Vinegar
Spray the areas of mold that are on walls and floors with vinegar. The vinegar should have an acidic value of at least five percent to help kill the mold spores. Allow the vinegar to soak in for at least fifteen to thirty minutes. Use a sponge or disposable rags to wipe away the mold. Do not operate fans in area where you are cleaning mold because this can cause the mold spores to spread through the air. If you are working in areas around the furnace or duct work of the home you will want to make sure that these are either turned off or closed so that the spores can not travel through these portholes either.
Step 4: Make Sure Everything Is Dry
When trying to prevent the growth of new mold make sure that you allow the area to thoroughly dry before closing it back up. If you have furniture make sure that it is completely dry before placing back indoors. If you are unable to get the items clean or dry you should discard them and purchase new items to replace them. While this may be costly it is safer for you, your family and your home.
Tips & Warnings
Make sure that the area that you are working in is ventilated. This will help prevent you from experiencing health related illnesses. Always wear protective gear such as gloves, eye covering and respirator that is designed to cover both your nose and mouth when using. If your mold problem is severe do not hesitate to contact professionals to help clean up your home’s mold problems.
Hello, i am John and have over ten years experience in water damage clean up, water damage restoration and water damage mold. During my career i noticed that a lot of homeowners are uninformed about water damage and it's consequences. This site provides you with how-to guides and lots of information on water damage and everything what's involved.