THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO MOLD REMOVAL & RREVENTION
The presence of toxic mold in your home can not only make you uncomfortable, but it can also damage your property and have a range of harmful effects on the body. Whether cold or humid, mold thrives wherever there is moisture present and often presents as patches that are difficult to detect.
Molds can be found in homes without being seen. The spores they emit are invisible to the naked eye, but if inhaled by humans or animals, these contaminants may cause a variety of health problems including fatigue and skin rash up to life-threatening infections such as lung disease. Mold thrives when it is cold outside because there's more humidity indoors which creates an ideal environment for mold growth.
The best way you can protect your family from molds and their harmful effects is by simply following steps like checking for leaks under sinks or around doors where water enters your home regularly while also drying wet areas quickly so that moisture does not build up over time - especially near windows since this allows sunlight into the area too!
Mold can be a sneaky and silent intruder in your home. You might not know it’s there because you don't feel the effects right away, but prolonged exposure to even healthy individuals will have an impact on their health-especially those with severe allergic reactions. If you've discovered or suspect mold growing in your business get professional testing done by certified mold professionals for removal services so that we prevent any long term negative impacts from happening!
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THIS Ultimate GUIDE?
Mold is a common problem in homes and while the presence of mold never signifies anything good, people are now armed with enough knowledge to fight it.
Mold Removal Winnipeg has created this Ultimate Guide To Mold, which provides accurate information on how you can protect your home from this ugly foe by removing any traces of mold that might be lurking inside.
WHAT IS MOLD?
Mold is a form of fungi that can be detrimental to human beings in many ways. The fungus plays an essential role in nature by recycling dead organic material, but this isn't always good for us because the spores are just as easily inhaled and they're not filtered out like allergens or other particulates.
Ingestion also poses problems- if you eat food with mold on it, then chances are high that your body will have trouble digesting all those extra proteins introduced into its system at once.
"Molds thrive on moisture and can be found naturally in plants, wood, food - even your home. Scientists have estimated that there may be more than 100 thousand types of mold out there! So if you're searching for new ways to spice up the place with some funky art or love a good cheese plate...just know it might come at a price.
Some of the most common types include Penicillium, Aspergillus, Cladosporium herbarum, Rhizopus stolonifer - but there are likely thousands more out there that nobody has yet discovered!
It is an understatement to say that there are a lot of different types of molds. Some have been known to be dangerous and toxic, such as black mold which poses significant health risks if inhaled or ingested. However not all kinds pose this kind of threat!
HOW DOES MOLD GROW?
Mold grows through microscopic spores that travel in the air into your home and settle. You need a microscope to see these with just your eye, but they can produce up to 1 million new mold cells per hour!
Mold is able to grow so quickly because of its parasitic nature--it's not picky about where it gets what it needs for survival. Plus, while you might be cleaning regularly or buying an expensive dehumidifier from Home Depot, sometimes those fixes aren't enough: if there are leaks under sinks or pipes near humidity-prone areas like kitchens then mold will keep growing back again and again without stopping! Airborne mold spores are nearly impossible to stop from entering your home.
However, for most people, these particles can't do much harm because they only travel in low quantities at a time. But when the spore finds a nice moist surface like wood or even paper it will attach itself there with vengeance; becoming an issue that needs fighting off immediately before festering into something worse than just mold growth on walls!
Don’t worry about breathing in their presence right now - Mold isn’t dangerous unless its quantity increases in which case allergic reactions may occur- If left untreated then mold becomes more of the problem as it consumes surfaces quickly especially damp ones such as wood.
Here are some common causes of mold growth.
- Temperature - Temperatures between 25-30 degrees celsius, and cannot grow in temperatures below 4.4 degrees.
- Moisture - Damp or moist environments, and often accompanies water damage or water leaks.
- Oxygen - Like us, mold needs oxygen to survive.
- Food - Eats and metabolizes nearly all organic matter and many types of synthetic materials.
- Darkness - Prefers to grow in dark locations
- Time - 24-48 hours in optimal conditions to begin growing
WHAT DOES MOLD LOOK LIKE
Molds come in a wide variety of shapes, patterns, sizes and colors. The individual spores are nearly invisible but when these find themselves a home and begin to form colonies they will create visible spots on the surface it lives on.
These appearances depend on multiple factors including species type as well as age or nutrient source; however typically they can be black, blue green red orange white or combinations thereof.
Mold Vs Mildew
Mildew and mold are often confused. But while they do share similarities, there are noticeable and important differences as well.
- Mold usually has a fuzzy or slimy appearance and is irregularly shaped. Look for signs of rot as surfaces covered in mold can begin to break down.
- Mildew (which is a different type of mold) usually appears in patches of white or grey and has a flatter & powdery appearance.
Surface mold can be hard to identify, but it's always worth calling in professionals. For some types of mold, like Stachybotrys (black mold), they might look identical to other harmless varieties- so only through analysis will you know what type and how dangerous the problem is.
Identifying Black Mold
Black mold is one of the more dangerous types as it can spread quickly and infect anything around. Earlier stages will look green or grey in their centers with white borders, but they typically develop into a deep black color over time. If you find any type of mold at all call a professional mold remediation contractor immediately to remove this health hazard from your home for good!
DIFFERENT TYPES OF MOLD
It's important to know the common types of mold out there, and which molds are dangerous.
There are many different types of mold in your home or business. In general, there are 3 main categories of mold.
Allergenic Molds
Allergenic molds are usually the least harmful but can cause problems for those with asthma or mold allergies. Some types of allergic molds include:
- Alternaria
- Aspergillus
- Cladosporium
- Penicillium
Pathogenic Molds
Pathogenic molds are more dangerous and can cause infections and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Some types of pathogenic molds include:
- Aspergillus species A. Fumigatus & A. Flavus
- Cryptococcus neoformans
- Histoplasma capsulatum
Toxigenic Molds
These molds are the most dangerous and can cause severe and even life-threatening health problems. These molds produce mycotoxins that cause toxic body responses.
Several species of fusarium, penicillium, and aspergillus molds are toxic, as well as the Stachybotrys chartarum otherize known as the black mold.
DIFFERENT LEVELS OF MOLD
When dealing with mold exposure and mold remediation, take note of the different levels of mold damage.
- Level 1 - Damages are 10 square feet or less. Mold is contained and easy to remove.
- Level 2 - Damages are 10-30 square feet. May indicate serious underlying damages and growth.
- Level 3 - Damages are 30-100 square feet or more. Infestation is systemic and widespread. Professional mold removal services are needed to avoid health and safety risks.
WHERE DOES MOLD GROW?
Mold can grow on anything it decides to digest, including you. Signs of mold are difficult to miss since they include spots and mold stains all over the place.
Fortunately for us indoors dwellers, there are some common places where we're most likely going to find this pesky microorganism inside our homes like bathrooms or any area with water damage from leaks in pipes or roofs which is a good reminder that if these happen then get them fixed right away!
Some of the most common places molds grow:
- Bathroom tile and grout
- Kitchen
- Bedroom
- Living room
- Attic
- Basement
- Garage
Other common places mold is found:
- Walls
- Carpet
- Furniture / upholstery
- Fabric
- Washing machine/dryer
- Air conditioner / Heater
- air ducts
One of the most dangerous aspects of mold is that it often grows in places you cannot see such as behind walls, underneath floorboards, and inside vents and air conditioners. It can be hard to detect when not visible, which lets the mold grow and spread throughout your home before its detected.
It's important to have these areas regularly inspected by an expert who will find hidden or less obvious spots where this hazardous substance may reside so they can take care of them accordingly with state-of-the-art equipment like high powered microscopes for analyzing building surfaces from afar without having to break into space first!
Mold Removal Winnipeg uses specialized equipment designed specifically for detecting even small amounts of moisture on any surface because we know how vulnerable drywall becomes once wet!
HEALTH EFFECTS OF MOLD
Mold can be downright hazardous to your health. Molds produce allergens, irritants and mycotoxins that if inhaled can trigger a range of reactions from mild to severe in humans, animals and plants alike. While it may not seem like much at first glance when you see mold growing on surfaces around the home or office building - think again!
This sneaky substance could lead to symptoms ranging anywhere from asthma attacks all the way up through pulmonary edema (swelling) as well as inflammation of mucous membranes throughout various organs including those found within our respiratory system itself!
Mold is particularly dangerous for those with weakened immune systems or skin issues, such as eczema because it may trigger an allergic reaction. Some people are more sensitive than others depending on their age group and/or preexisting medical conditions; babies often have stronger reactions due to the fact that they breathe air at 10 times per minute when compared to adults who only take in air at 3-4 breaths per minute.
Some of the allergic reactions to mold exposure include:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Red eyes
- Skin rash
- Headache
- Nasal congestion
- Coughing
Breathing mold spores can also result in more serious complications and reactions including:
- Difficulty breathing (respiratory issues)
- Infections
- Skin Irritation
- Severe asthma reactions
- Hypersensitivity pneumonitis
- Kidney or liver failure
- Shock
- Bleeding of the lungs
For more detailed information on mold and health issues, contact:
- A mold removal specialist
- Health Canada mold guideline
MOLD REMOVAL VS MOLD REMEDIATION
Mold services can be broken down into two categories, removal and remediation.
Removal is physically removing all traces of mold from surfaces and the air by using bleach or other methods.
Remediation means returning levels to normal with natural solutions like baking soda so that the problem does not come back up again in a few month's time.
While it might seem idealistic, 100% removal of spores isn't possible due to their microscopic sizes - which makes them impossible for humans as well as some chemicals (to kill).
DIY MOLD REMOVAL OR PROFESSIONAL MOLD REMOVAL?
With all the risks financially, physically, and emotionally, it's best to hire a professional.DIY or Professional Mold Removal? With DIY projects like painting your home or renovating your bathroom can come some extra time and money but improper removal of mold could lead to serious issues for you as well as anyone around you.
If DIYers make mistakes painting their homes or remodeling bathrooms they may have extra time on hand to fix the problem, but improper removal can lead to serious problems such as upper respiratory infections which could be life-threatening if one were exposed too long without taking precautions.
There are many things that can be done to remove mold at home, but it's important to note the size of any area before beginning. For smaller-sized areas with less than 10 square feet coverage, there is a safe and effective way for you to do it yourself - or depending on your experience level you may want some additional guidance from someone who has knowledge in this field.
But what about larger rooms? If you're going for anything over 10 square feet then hire a professional as DIY methods of dealing with mold aren't recommended by industry experts who know firsthand how dangerous this fungus can be!
How To Clean Mold - DIY Mold Removal
Mold needs to be removed from your home as soon as possible, but only with the right personal protective equipment and know-how can you ensure that it never comes back.
N95 masks - You'll want these if there are no other people in the household who have allergies or asthma because mold spores will still float around even after removal.
Goggles & protective gloves - These items should also go without saying; protection is key when dealing with any potentially hazardous substance!
Shop vacuum - This tool blows excess water off drywalls which prevents them from rotting out any further than they already have been. Drywall saws come in handy too...
A Certified Mold Removal Specialist has access to specialized equipment which minimizes risks associated with the removal process itself. Preventing any damage in your house saves time and money for both parties involved when fighting this problem head-on without hesitation.
YouTube is a great way to watch instructional videos, but you should be aware that the person in the video may not have all of your specific needs and factors. For example, they might only show how to remove mold from their home when there are so many other things out there that can affect its growth.
MISTAKES TO AVOID WHEN REMOVING MOLD
It’s important to avoid these common mold removal mistakes when attempting to clean mold yourself.
Never Use Bleach
Bleach will only kill mold on the surface, and not what is underneath. It might seem like a surefire way of getting rid of it - but bleach actually opens up pores in wood or drywall that are then more susceptible to growing even faster than before!
Never Paint Over Mold
Some people are under the impression that you can paint over mold and it will stop spreading. This is a misconception because antimicrobial mold resistant paint only works on future growth, not existing problems.
PROFESSIONAL MOLD REMOVAL PROCESS
Certified mold removal technicians can handle your mold remediation problems safely and effectively. They use strict guidelines and checklists to get rid of mold and ensure each job is done right the first time. A professional mold removal process includes:
Mold Assessment
- Air quality test and mold testing
- Identify and determine the type of mold
- Locate the source (poor ventilation/moisture)
- Recommend treatment options to remove mold
Water & Mold Removal
- Take humidity measurements
- Contain the area to avoid cross-contamination to surrounding areas
- Remove any water that may cause further damage
- Remove airborne contaminants with air purifying equipment
- Remove all visible mold by hand using antimicrobial treatments
Drying & Cleaning
- Dry the area using dehumidifiers, fans, and scrubbers
- Reduce excess moisture to a safe level so mold cannot thrive and return
Prevention & Restoration
- Complete a post-completion report detailing the root causes of the mold
- Give tips for ongoing maintenance to ensure mold does not return
- Restore any property damaged by water or mold, or properly dispose of items that are damaged beyond repair
WHY CHOOSE PROFESSIONAL MOLD REMOVAL SERVICES?
When dealing with something as dangerous as a mold problem, it’s always a good idea to call in professionals. Here are some of the main reasons to hire a professional mold removal company.
- They will remove all traces of mold, including visible, hidden ( like behind walls), and airborne.
- They can detect and identify multiple types of mold and inform you of health and safety risks.
- They have the industrial equipment needed to do the job
- They have years or decades of experience in identifying, locating, and removing mold
- They save you time and money not having to buy all the tools and equipment
- They prevent future mold outbreaks by ensuring mold is successfully removed and moisture levels are reduced so it cannot return
MOLD PREVENTION
It's the old saying "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure"! The best way to prevent mold growth in your home or work place, as well as fix any existing problems you may have with it. If you're worried about an issue that has already arisen, don't fret!
Mold removal experts can safely and affordably get rid of all types for molds found within homes or workplaces while also giving advice on how to prevent future mold growth from occurring at all.
Here are a few mold prevention tips to follow:
- Prevent moisture - keep your home or business in low in humidity.
- Prevent leaks - the most common cause of mold is water leaks. Check your premises frequently and schedule an annual professional home inspection.
- Don’t leave wet clothes lying around - remove clothes from the washer right away
- Clean bathrooms with high-quality mold killing products
- Open windows or doors when you can to promote air-flow
- Use a strong vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove as many mold spores as possible
- Get annual mold testing and mold inspections are done to assess and monitor mold levels.
WHY TEST FOR MOLD?
The best way to know if you have mold is through a test. If there are any dark stains, weird smells or colors on your home it may be an indication of the presence of dangerous substances that will only get worse without professional help and remediation. A professional mold remediation service will confirm the presence or absence of dangerous substances.
These services are worth it for peace and mind to know that if there is a problem, professionals will be on hand with the proper remediation! Mold doesn't have to be a problem for you and your family.
Contact Mold Removal Winnipeg today to schedule your appointment today.