Should black mold removal be done by professionals?

12/13/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO® of Central and West Plano explains if professionals must remove black mold.

When mold is suspected or identified in a home or commercial space, mold removal is necessary. SERVPRO of Central and West Plano offers mold removal services in Hebron, Texas, by certified (AMRT - Applied Microbial Remedial Technician) technicians. The company specializes in water and mold damage restoration and invests in the latest equipment and ongoing mold remediation training. In this article, SERVPRO of Central and West Plano explains if professionals must do black mold removal.

What is black mold?

Black mold is not a specific type but a collective term that refers to several species of fungus. According to the EPA, the term black mold used by media refers to mold that produces mycotoxins or to a particular mold, Stachybotrys chartarum. These fungi are dark but not always black. They may appear as brownish-black spots and greenish-black or bluish-green when they grow on wooden surfaces.

Black mold spores can grow on most surfaces indoors or outdoors. Black mold is common in moist areas like bathrooms and basements, previously flooded buildings, or any place that has experienced water damage.

Can homeowners do black mold removal?

The EPA says homeowners themselves can clean up mold that affects less than ten square feet. But, when water damage has been severe, or mold growth affects more than ten square feet, the EPA guide must be consulted.

How to get rid of black mold

Property owners can try the following tips if the mold grows in an area of less than ten square feet. These are DIY measures that may cause staining and cosmetic damage that may be irreversible.

• Leaks or other water sources must be repaired, and the area and items must be dry.
• The EPA website suggests scrubbing mold off hard surfaces using a brush and detergent. The surface must be dried completely.

Other DIY methods include spraying equal parts of vinegar and water with one-fifth part of baking soda on moldy surfaces. The vinegar solution must be left for half an hour and then cleaned with a sponge. This process can be repeated till the mold is removed. The area must then be cleaned and dried.

• Materials like carpets and drywall that are porous might have to be discarded if there is mold growth.
• It is better to use rubber gloves, N-95 masks, goggles, and protective gowns to protect from mold and spores.
• Keep areas like bathrooms prone to mold growth well-ventilated by running a fan or keeping windows open for longer. These areas must be cleaned frequently to prevent or minimize mold growth.

Dangers of DIY black mold removal

• Mold releases spores which will lead to mold spreading to other areas. Though plastic sheets can be used to contain the area being cleaned, they may not be as effective as when professionals do area containment.
• When homeowners or property owners clean up mold, they may miss mold in hidden areas. For complete mold removal and remediation, a professional is better.
• Safety can be compromised when property owners do mold removal. Trained and experienced technicians, like the SERVPRO of Central and West Plano personnel, have specialized equipment, personal protection gear, air filters, advanced containment systems, and robust products. Professionals ensure the safety of the occupants of the affected building during and after the mold removal process.

If a contractor or professional mold removal is chosen, their experience in cleaning mold must be verified. Ideally, professional mold remediators must follow the EPA guide and guidelines of the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, IICRC, or from other professional or government sources.

Mold removal services from SERVPRO of Central and West Plano

The professional mold remediation process is complex. Inspection and assessment must be done (according to local and state laws). SERVPRO of Central and West Plano advises on the process according to Texas laws and based on each unique mold situation. The company follows a process with adaptations for each home or business. They have advanced mold containment measures like negative air chambers that prevent spores from spreading mold. Effective air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums do air filtration to capture spores. Antifungal and antimicrobials are used for mold removal, and irreversibly damaged or mold-infested porous materials may need to be disposed of. Restorable items are cleaned and disinfected, and the area is deodorized. After these measures, necessary repairs are done to restore the home or business to a preloss condition.

Owners of homes or businesses who need professional mold removal in Hebron, Texas, can contact SERVPRO of Central and West Plano by emailing dshaw@SERVPROheb.com or calling (945) 348-5804 for a hassle-free and reliable solution to mold problems.