Removing mold from your home or office structure is the one area that, unlike asbestos and lead-based paint removal, can be tackled by a good, old-fashioned do-it-yourself job. Mold can definitely be just as dangerous and pesky as asbestos or lead, but in many cases, a few tips can help the everyday homeowner rid themselves of it. Mold is a fungus with a seriously gross look. If looks could kill, mold would be deadly. However, despite its looks, mold (and mildew) can be removed in safe ways without breaking the bank to hire a professional.

For health purposes, it is best to remove mold from your home as soon as possible. That is because inhaling the fungus can cause airway construction that can lead to or worsen breathing problems such asthma. Also, health problems as a result of mold exposure do not only extend to humans, but to pets as well. Everyone is aware of the mold in you can see in common areas like shower corners and kitchen sink grout, but some mold may not be visible to the naked eye. For instances where you, your family members or your pets are having health issues such as allergies, asthma and even depression, it may be wise to hire a professional to check the status of invisible mold in your home. Once found, ridding yourself of mold is usually an easy process. Here are a few ways to tackle some DIY projects to remove mold, as well as some instances where hiring a professional would be the best move.mold on walls

First, the best way to keep your home or office mold-free is to prevent the growth of it initially. Keeping areas dry and cleaning up any areas of moisture is a surefire way to reduce the chances of mold growth. In areas such as the kitchen and bathroom, it can be a bit harder to keep surfaces dry, but remembering to wipe down the sink and tub after each use is a great way to keep your home free from the fungus. Mold thrives in warm, humid areas, so setting your home or office to a cool temperature is another way to thwart growth. Also, installing a dehumidifier is another way to prevent mold problems. Here are some additional tips to help you combat mold in your home:  

  • Fix any leaks or plumbing issues that cause unwanted extra moisture in the home.
  • Keep surfaces dry and spill-free.
  • Fresh air and sunlight are your friends in helping you kill mold. Let them in!
  • Promote great air circulation by opening doors and windows from time to time, especially in areas with high heat and humidity (like kitchens and bathrooms).
  • Wash and dry wet towels and clothes as soon as possible and NEVER leave wet items piled to dry.
  • Replace shower curtains quarterly to prevent bathroom mold growth.

 

Getting rid of mold

If you have ever watched any home improvement show, you know you can get out the bleach and water, make a diluted mixture and spray until your hearts content (and the mold is gone). If you want to go the natural route, you can use vinegar to do the same thing. Simply fill a spray bottle with vinegar only. Do not dilute it! Plain white vinegar does a great job at killing mold because it is a naturally antimicrobial substance and it goes a long way toward combating mold and mildew. Douse any affected areas with vinegar directly, allow the substance to sit for a few moment and then wipe away the vinegar and the mold will follow.

Hate the smell of vinegar? Then try a tea tree oil solution instead. It can be used much the same way as bleach in that you make a solution from it by adding a few drops to water. Like vinegar, tea tree oil is a natural remedy to fungus growth and can help combat mold and mildew. And, if you have some alcohol handy, this next remedy may be for you. You can use a cheap brand of vodka to clean mold and mildew as well. Like plain white vinegar, you can use it straight, no chaser, to rid your home or office of the fungus. Who says DIY can’t be fun?

If you notice mold on small patches of drywall ranging from 6-10 square feet in size, you could get started on a DIY removal job. For more serious cases of mold, like black mold, a professional touch is necessary. Also, large areas of mold require a trained professional to treat and handle to ensure the safety of you and your family. A mold remediation professional will know exactly how to simultaneously seal a room and make sure it’s well ventilated for the removal process. If you believe you have a serious mold problem or simply do not want to take on a weekend warrior project for a small mold issue, be sure to call mold removal specialist in your city.

 

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