Black mold is a toxic, quickly spreading fungus that exists in homes and buildings nearly worldwide. The mold thrives in damp, musty conditions, such as water-damaged ceilings, basements, bathrooms, and inside air conditioning units. Since the substance has been found to cause harmful health effects to humans and pets, it is important for homeowners to identify and remove black mold as soon as possible. Black mold remediation can usually be performed by anyone, so long as the proper safety precautions are taken. A large infestation may require professional black mold remediation services, in which a team of experts enters the home to completely eradicate the problem.
It is usually easy to identify black mold in a home or building. The fungus is very dark green or black, and most likely to appear in areas that have been prone to flooding or excessive humidity. Once mold has been discovered, it is essential to take steps to remove it as soon as possible. An individual should put on heavy rubber gloves and clothing that covers the entire body to protect the skin from accidental exposure. Most mold experts highly recommend the use of goggles and a respirator as well, since mold spores can easily become airborne and enter the lungs or eyes when they are being handled.
If mold is found in a very damp area, an individual should try to dry the surrounding as much as possible with dehumidifiers or fans. Large clumps of mold can be removed by carefully pulling the fungus from the floor or wall with gloved hands, and disposing of it in a heavy-duty garbage bag. Remaining patches can be scraped using a disposable razor blade or putty knife. Once most of the mold has been removed, the area should be thoroughly scrubbed using disinfecting soap and water. Household cleaning products that are designed to remove mildew can be used to finish a cleaning job.
After black mold remediation, an individual can once again dry the area as completely as possible to prevent new infestations. The garbage bag of mold should be removed from the house and disposed of in a landfill to prevent airborne spores from escaping and repopulating. By frequently checking mold-prone areas and taking steps to prevent damp conditions, most spaces remain free of fungus after an initial cleanup.
A person who is interested in a more detailed guide or other options for black mold remediation can obtain information from national and regional environmental protection groups. An Internet search for mold cleanup and removal services in a certain geographical area can provide expert resources and professionals who specialize in identifying and eliminating mold from homes and businesses. Professional black mold remediation is usually recommended if a mold problem is widespread or infestations reappear.