And in case you have found molds in your home, you are not alone. This is a problem to many Michigan homeowners, particularly the basement, bathroom, and other areas that are susceptible to moisture. Mold is not an aesthetic issue, it can destroy your house and result in possible health problems once unattended. Knowing how to get rid of black mold and how to remove it properly from different surfaces is key to protecting both your property and your family.
We will step you through the useful techniques of controlling the growth of the molds, when safe methods (at home) can be tried, and when the serious cases demand professional assistance.
How Mold Forms in Your Home?
Mold is grown in wet, dark and stuffy environments. Change of seasons and excessive humidity makes certain homes more susceptible to change particularly in Michigan where you have:
- Leaky pipes or roof issues
- Weak insulation of attics or basements.
- Flood or water damages which are not treated.
- Bathrooms that are not well ventilated.
Indoor molds are mostly black mould which is common or black mould as commonly known as Stachybotrys and other types of green or white mould that may spread at a rapid rate according to the conditions. Even though not every mold is dangerous, black mold is especially dangerous, due to the fact that it may lead to respiratory irritation.
Steps to Get Rid of Black Mold in Your Home?
In case you find black mold, the process of its removal will depend on the size and location of the issue to a great extent. In small and enclosed spaces (under 10 square feet) you might be able to solve the problem yourself. Anything bigger, or when the mold continues to happen, it is prudent to seek the services of a mold remedial specialist.
These are the procedures that you can perform on smaller spots of moulds:
Protect Yourself First
Protect yourself by wearing a mask or safety glasses and gloves to prevent inhalation of spores of the mould.
Ventilate the Area
Open windows and close doors to confine the spores in the air.
Right Cleaning Solution
On nonporous surfaces, such as tiles and glass, a combination of a detergent and water can be used. On more stubborn areas, vinegar, or watered-down bleach might be necessary, but never blend cleaning agents because this could produce poisonous fumes.
Scrub the Area Thoroughly
Scrub the visible mold with a stiff brush, being particularly careful to scrub corners and joints.
Dry Completely
Moisture can still make the mold spores grow. Fans and dehumidifiers should be used to get rid of residual dampness.
How to Get Rid of Mold in the House?
The solution does not entirely rest in cleaning an obvious patch. For prevention of the recurrence of mold, a prevention plan can be considered:
- Repair leaks and check plumbing frequently.
- Enhance ventilation of rooms that are high in moisture such as kitchens, bathrooms and basements.
- A dehumidifier should be used when living in a very humid area in Michigan.
- Enclose gutters and downspouts to move water away from your foundations.
- Insulation You should be able to ensure insulation, particularly in crawl spaces and attics.
Mold may be ready to be cleaned up in other places or may have invaded porous substances such as drywall, carpet, or ceiling tiles and then it may be time to get services of mold clean up. To eliminate the colonies of molds in a safe way, professionals utilize special equipment to mitigate the situation in the future.
How to Remove Mold from Walls the Right Way?
Painted and unpainted walls are typical locations where the mold prospers, particularly in the bathrooms and basements. To remove mold from walls:
Check the Wall Material
Drywall with paintings can absorb spores hence it is not easy to be removed without replacing them. On the contrary, concrete or tile walls can be scrubbed.
Use a Mold-Safe Cleaner
Shower the problematic area with a commercial cleaner or a home concoction such as vinegar and water. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.
Scrub and Wipe
Wipe the mold using a sponge/ scrub brush. In case of texture on the wall, you might have to use a rigorous brush to access the crevices.
Seal and Repaint (where necessary).
When the staining takes long to remove, paint over with a mold resistant primer.
But as the mould penetrates deep into the inside of drywall or insulation, the only solution might be to resort to the professional restoration of the mold damage.
When to call a Professional?
Small surface moulds can be dealt with by DIY solutions, although sometimes it is better to err on the side of caution. Seek the services of the mold remediation expert in the following cases:
- The mold is greater than 10 feet.
- Even after cleaning it over and over, mold continues to reappear.
- Symptoms of allergies or asthma are deteriorated indoors by the family members.
- You think there may be some mold behind the walls or floors.
A trained remediation specialist in moulds has experience in locating the source of mould, sealing the situation and applying the cleaning solutions which are industrially tested and proven to be safe to avoid moulds.
Mold Clean up Services in Michigan
All removal companies are not equal. In choosing a service, one should take into account:
- Certification and Training: seek IICRC certified technicians.
- Homes in Michigan: Local knowledge is important due to the causes of mould which are climate-specific.
- Wholesome Solutions: The most successful companies do not simply eliminate the visible mold; they correct the cause of moisture to avoid its re-growth.
- Clearly Stated Pricing: Be suspicious of approximations–demand an inspection and a written proposal.
Contact Lyon Restoration for all your mold clean up services in Michigan.
Final Thoughts
One of such problems that just becomes bigger and bigger is mold. Learning how to get rid of black mold, understanding how to get rid of mold in the house safely, and knowing exactly how to remove mold from walls are essential steps for any homeowner.
In small patches, safe cleaning devices together with the adequate ventilation may suffice. However, in the case of bigger or chronic problems, professional mold cleaning can be the solution and the only one. It is a healthy and comfortable investment to keep your Michigan home dry and mold free, whether through preventative measures or professional restoration of mould damage.