Table Of Content
Mold Cleanup in Your Home
Determining who should handle the cleanup depends on several factors. One crucial consideration is the extent of the mold issue. If the affected area is smaller than approximately 10 square feet (less than a 3 ft. by 3 ft. patch), typically, you can manage the task yourself following the Mold Cleanup Tips and Techniques.
However:
- If there’s been significant water damage, or if mold covers more than 10 square feet, it’s advisable to refer to the IAQ Mold Guidance. While primarily aimed at educational and commercial structures, this resource is relevant to various building types.
- Should you opt to enlist a contractor or professional service provider for the cleanup, ensure they possess experience in mold remediation. Check references and request adherence to recommendations from resources like the EPA guide Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings, as well as guidelines from organizations such as the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) or the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC).
- If there’s suspicion that the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system may be contaminated with mold—perhaps due to an identified moisture problem or proximity of mold to the system intake—consult the EPA guide Should You Have the Air Ducts in Your Home Cleaned? before proceeding. Avoid operating the HVAC system if there’s knowledge or suspicion of mold contamination, as it could spread mold throughout the building.
- In cases where water and/or mold damage stem from sewage or other contaminated water sources, seek assistance from a professional experienced in cleaning and repairing buildings affected by such water.
If you harbor health concerns, it’s wise to consult a health professional before initiating cleanup efforts.
Tips and Techniques
The advice and methods outlined in this section aim to assist you in addressing your mold issue. Professional cleaners or remediation specialists might employ techniques beyond those detailed here. It’s important to recognize that mold can lead to staining and cosmetic harm. Fully restoring an item to its original appearance may not always be achievable through cleaning alone.
- Address plumbing leaks and any water-related issues promptly. Ensure all items are thoroughly dried.
- Use detergent and water to scrub mold from hard surfaces, then ensure they are completely dried.
- Dispose of absorbent or porous materials like ceiling tiles and carpet if they become moldy. Mold can permeate these materials deeply, making complete removal challenging or impossible.
- Avoid painting or caulking surfaces with mold. Clean the mold and dry the surfaces before applying paint. Painting over moldy surfaces increases the likelihood of peeling.
- For items you’re unsure how to clean or those with significant value, consider consulting a specialist. Specialists in furniture repair, restoration, painting, art conservation, carpet cleaning, water damage restoration, and fire or water restoration are often listed in directories. Request and verify references, and prioritize specialists affiliated with professional organizations.
Bathroom Tip
Areas frequently or consistently damp can prove challenging to keep entirely mold-free. If you notice recurring mold in the shower or other parts of the bathroom, increasing ventilation (such as by using a fan or opening windows) and cleaning more regularly typically helps prevent mold recurrence or minimizes its presence.
Flood and Flooding
After a flood, you might not think much about the air quality inside your home or office. But if you don’t get rid of wet stuff and lower the moisture, it can cause serious health problems later on. Water and damp things can become a breeding ground for germs like viruses, bacteria, and mold. These can make you sick, cause allergies, and keep damaging things long after the flood is over.
More Information About Mold
- Content Related >> Spring Mold Problems in Hong Kong: Strategies for Prevention and Remediation
- Content Related >> Pictures – Common Mold Problems in Hong Kong
Contact our Interior Designer Today for any mold questions and design ideas.