Black mold is a bummer for homeowners in two distinct ways. It is not only toxic and lethal for human health but also indicates serious moisture issues in your homes. It is a good thing that with little attention and professional help, we can eliminate the overall threat. 

What is Black Mold?

Black mold is a dark grey or black-colored growth on the walls of your home. It is also largely referred to as Stachybotrys chartarum. The mold does not only qualify as a single species of mold. There are a variety of species that contribute to the mold growth. Only a proper lab test done by professionals can determine the type of mold colonizing your walls. 

Health Risks Associated With Black Mold

Molds that occur naturally are only harmful when they come in contact with a moist surface. These begin to grow and cause harm. Once that happens, the mold spores give rise to allergens that irritate. Coming in contact with allergens may cause the following health issues: 

• Asthma attacks
• Sneezing
• Rashes
• Runny nose
• Allergic symptoms

How to Eliminate Mold Swiftly

First and foremost, you need to analyze the extent of the outbreak. You can check if you can do some DIY to deal with the situation. In case it is beyond your expertise, it is best to leave the work to professionals who have the knowledge and expertise to handle mold.  

EPA suggests that mold growth flourishing on an area less than 10 square feet is alright to be self-handled. Anything greater than that needs to be taken care of by professional cleanup service providers. 

Once you have established whether you would like to proceed with the cleanup yourself, you must get yourself handy with the following items: 

• Face mask
• Rubber gloves
• Eye goggles
• Spray bottle
• Sponge
• Vacuum cleaner
• Bucket
• Cleaning clothes
• Scrub brush
• Bleaching agent
• Dish soap
• Mold cleaner

Four Steps to Mold Removal

Step 1: Wear your safety gear

You can feel irritation and breathing difficulties when you breathe in allergens from mold spores. Put your mask on, and wear your goggles. This will help you keep your hands and eyes safe and protected from cleaning agents and mold.  

Step 2: Get rid of additional moisture

This step is crucial if your house has recently been flooded. Keep items such as furniture, toys, and bedding materials out of your way when you are just starting. If it has been less than 48 hours since the flood, consider salvaging the items by keeping them away for some hours after drying. If you notice any sign of mold, you must get rid of it immediately. 

Step 3: Clean affected areas

Depending on the type of surface you are growing to clean, the cleaning agents differ. We believe that you should always start with gentle ones and move your way up to the strong ones. You should ensure never to mix ammonia and bleach as it can produce toxic gases that can put your health at risk. There is always a risk when you are working with strong cleaning materials that may directly or indirectly impact your health. Therefore, you must either take the help of a professional or read the user manual well.  

Step 4: Look into possibilities for mold regrowth

You must monitor the mold growth in your house. After that, you need to wait for a few hours to finally know if the issue is permanently resolved. You can experience musty odors or witness visible mold growth if the mold persists. 

If you can extensively clean and handle the moisture situation well, you do not have anything to worry about. In case you have doubts and certain areas in your home where you cannot reach, it is best to bring in a professional service.

Why Contact ECOS for Mold Removal?

ECOS, with its right equipment, tools, and expertise can help you effectively remove mold from your home faster and more efficiently.  Choosing ECOS will be an ideal solution as it is staffed with professionals who have 12 years of cleaning experience. 

If you decide to avail our services, we are just a call away. Contact us today for any mold-related issues.