Can I remove mold myself? Here’s the best way to get rid of mold

Who should do the cleanup depends on a number of factors. One consideration is the size of the mold problem. If the moldy area is less than about 10 square feet (less than roughly a 3 ft. by 3 ft. patch), in most cases, you can remove mold yourself.

It’s important to call in New Jersey mold removal professionals if there has been a large amount of water damage. If the problem area is larger and covers more than 10 square feet, get a professional mold inspection to determine exactly the type of mold you are dealing with and the best approach for mold remediation.

DIY Mold Cleanup Tips and Techniques

This is how clean up your mold problem. Professional cleaners or remediators like MasterTech Environmental Jersey Shore use methods not covered here. Mold can cause staining on your belongings and construction materials which can result in permanent cosmetic damage. It may not be possible to clean an item so that its original appearance is restored.

Risks and Precautions To Remove Mold

Almost all homes will have some mold spores, These spores need little more than a food source and moisture to grow on various surfaces in your home. Before you get rid of the mold you need to get rid of any moisture issues at the source.

Fix plumbing leaks and other water problems as soon as possible. Install exhaust fans in bathrooms, the kitchen and laundry room. Dry all items completely.

Be sure your gutters and downspouts are clear and that water is properly draining away from your home’s foundation.

Avoid exposing yourself or others to mold.

We don’t say this simply as a way to scare you into hiring us to come and provide professional mold removal services. The CDC and the EPA warn the public of health dangers related to mold. The truth is mold remediation carries health risks and mold exposure can lead to health related consequences including CIRS Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome. Before getting rid of mold buildup, always wear protective clothing, rubber gloves, a mask and goggles. Mold gives off microscopic spores that can come in contact with your eyes, skin and be inhaled.

Watch this video from the CDC to find out how to protect yourself from mold

Scrub mold off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely

Hard surfaces such as tile, window sills, and cabinets can be cleaned with detergent then dried completely with a rag. There are detergents specially formulated with mold-killing ingredients that can help speed the job. Just follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper application.

Discard used cleaning supplies

When done, dispose of the rags in a sealed garbage bag, and immediately wash your clothes in a separate laundry load. For more porous surfaces, like drywall, use a rag so you don’t damage the surface with more abrasive cleaners.

Absorbent or porous materials, such as ceiling tiles and carpet, should not be cleaned with over the counter products and DIY methods. If you are not able to hire a professional and reputable mold removal company, these items should be thrown away if they become moldy. Mold can grow on or fill in the empty spaces and crevices of porous materials, so the mold may be difficult or impossible to remove completely.

Do not paint or caulk moldy surfaces

Painting or caulking over moldy surfaces is a temporary fix and it’s essential to address the root cause. There are health risks, spreading effects, and structural damage caused by concealing mold. Make sure to clean up the mold and dry the surfaces before painting. Paint applied over moldy surfaces is likely to peel.

If you are unsure about how to clean an item, or if the item is expensive or of sentimental value, you may wish to consult a specialist. Specialists in furniture repair, restoration, painting, art restoration and conservation, carpet and rug cleaning, water damage, and fire or water restoration are commonly listed in phone books. Be sure to ask for and check references. Look for specialists who are affiliated with professional organizations.

It is important to know how to clean mold from every surface of your home. Remove mold before it spreads and becomes a bigger problem. Mold can rot wood surfaces over time and reduce indoor air quality with pollutants that can lead to health issues.

Get rid of mold with cleaning tools and methods that can remove some of the stains and the health hazard that mold presents.

Mold Prevention Tips

It’s better to take consistent steps to prevent mold than to have to deal with mold growth in your home. Places that are often or always damp can be hard to maintain completely free of mold.

Run the bathroom fan or open the window when you take a shower to prevent mold from growing. If there’s some mold in the shower or elsewhere in the bathroom that seems to reappear, increasing ventilation (running a fan or opening a window) and cleaning more frequently will usually prevent mold from recurring, or at least keep the mold to a minimum.

Use exhaust fans or open the window in the kitchen as well. This is especially important when using hot water that creates steam and condensation throughout the space – like when you do the dishes. 

Knowing when to call a professional mold removal company

Effective remediation and safeguarding your health depends on the scientific testing, professional equipment and experience that comes with a reputable New Jersey mold removal service like MasterTech Environmental Jersey Shore. While minor mold issues on non-porous surfaces smaller than 10 square feet can often be handled with DIY solutions, certain situations warrant professional intervention.

Large Areas of Mold Growth

When the affected area spans more than 10 square feet, professional expertise is essential. Extensive mold growth, especially on porous surfaces like drywall or carpets, indicates a deeper problem that requires specialized treatment.

Hidden Mold

Mold often lurks in hidden areas like behind walls, under flooring, or within HVAC systems. If you suspect mold growth but can’t visibly locate it, a professional New Jersey mold inspection is necessary. MasterTech Environmental’s licensed mold inspectors use advanced tools to detect hidden mold and prevent its spread.

Health Risks

DIY mold removal exposes individuals to health hazards associated with mold exposure. These risks include respiratory issues, allergies, skin irritation, and in severe cases, mycotoxin exposure leading to serious health complications. Moreover, the chemicals used in DIY remedies can be harmful if not handled properly, further compromising your well-being.

DIY mold removal nj

Guaranteed Safety

Professional mold removal companies like MasterTech Environmental Jersey Shore offer peace of mind by using industry-standard equipment, safe techniques, and EPA-approved solutions. Our expertise ensures comprehensive mold eradication, addressing the root cause, and providing a mold-free guarantee for up to 5 years post-treatment. This guarantee underscores our commitment to a safe and long-lasting solution, protecting your property and your health.

By entrusting the job to certified professionals, you ensure a thorough and safe mold removal process, eliminating health risks associated with exposure to mold and harsh chemicals. Their expertise not only resolves the visible issue but also prevents future recurrence, providing a mold-free environment for years to come.

Call 732-716-2384 or Contact Us Now to schedule your new jersey mold inspection and mold testing

Author

  • Mark Case, with over 50 years of experience, is the owner of Mastertech Environmental of the Jersey Shore, serving Ocean and Monmouth County. Originating from a successful cleaning business in the late '70s, Mark expanded into mold removal, biohazard remediation, and hoarding cleanup. In 2018, he acquired the Mastertech franchise, rapidly becoming one of the most respected remediation companies in the region. Certified by the IICRC, Mark, and his son, Marc, lead the business, specializing in Mold Inspection, Testing, and safe Hoarding and Biohazard cleanups. Their expertise ensures cutting-edge services with a passion for community well-being.

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