Most home improvement tasks require only a decent how-to video and some elbow grease. However, mold removal is not your typical project. There are various risks for homeowners who attempt to treat infestations on their own. Here’s why you shouldn’t try to remove mold yourself.
1. You Don’t Know the Mold Type
Mold is a living organism that needs moisture to survive. It lives on virtually every material or surface and will grow in virtually any environment. There are many types of mold that each grow in different conditions, from the damp storage room to the dry attic.
Even the most experienced professional can’t identify the kind of mold your house has just by looking at it. There are tests that can be run to identify the type of mold. The EPA recommends professionals test for the presence and kind of mold when you suspect an infestation. You can also find mold on your house by using black light to locate the spores.
Even if you have a family member who plays the role of a scientist in your movies, you shouldn’t DIY mold removal. It’s best to have professionals identify the mold in your home or business because you don’t want to make the problem worse.
2. You Could Make the Problem Worse
If you’re not highly skilled with trades like plumbing and electrical work, you might be tempted to try DIY mold removal. But mold needs a damp environment. If you get rid of some mold and remove the moisture, you might have made the problem worse.
You could have made the mold thrive and spread in another area. You could have made the mold spread to a more porous material, like drywall, cabinets, or drywall. The spores, which are invisible to the eye, will continue to spread throughout your home or business.
You could have made a bad situation worse. This can lead to more damage and more money spent to repair the problem.
3. You’ll Probably Miss the Hidden Mold
You can’t see mold in walls and ceilings, even if you wear black light goggles. You can mistake a damp smell for a leaky toilet, a dusty room for a vacuum that needs a new bag, or a musty odor for outdated towels.
You can’t check every inch of your home, so you’ll probably miss mold hiding in the most unlikely places. You have to have the right equipment and knowledge to check for mold.
Even if you have a small and contained infestation, you can’t spot all the places it’s lurking, so it’s best to call in a professional mold removal service.
4. You Might Be Exposed to Health Hazards
If you DIY mold removal, you can’t predict what you’ll expose yourself to. While most molds are harmless, some molds can cause serious health problems.
Short-term exposure to mold is unlikely to cause health problems. However, if you have allergies or asthma, you might be at a higher risk for complications if you’re exposed to mold spores.
If you’re suffering from allergies or asthma, it’s best to call a professional mold removal service. They’ll be able to remove the mold without causing a reaction.
5. You Might Not Be Ready for the Work Involved
Homeowners who DIY mold removal will probably wear protective gear and ensure the environment is safe before starting a job. But that’s just the beginning. It’s very dangerous to work with a mold, and you should always wear the right gear.
You’ll need a respirator, goggles, gloves, and a Hazmat suit on top of a full-body suit, boots, and a hood. You have to carefully remove the mold and any contaminated building materials. You don’t want to leave anything that could harbor mold.
Conclusion
The EPA suggests that professional mold removal services are the best route for homeowners. They’re trained to protect themselves and the homeowner, which is especially important for people with health issues.
Environmental Mold is a leading full-service mold and indoor air quality consulting firm specializing in indoor air quality inspections / consulting services and professional mold removal since its inception in 2001. We provide commercial and residential mold remediation solutions, property evaluations, and repair cost estimates, interpreting third-party protocols while managing remediation projects from start to finish. Reach out to us today at 949-333-3998 to schedule a service!