Mold removal | Are the tips and myths on the internet true?

From time to time, you may notice mold growing in different areas of your house or buildings. Once mold begins growing, it is very challenging to eliminate. According to the CDC, areas with moisture such as leaks in pipes, roofs, windows, or places recently affected by floods are most susceptible.

Other areas where mold can grow:

• Wood products
• Ceilings
• Wallpaper
• Carpets
• Drywall
• Insulation
• Upholstery

In the early 2000s, stories about mold seemed to be everywhere in the news, triggering a panic among many homeowners and businesses. Here are just a couple of the misconceptions about mold:

1. All mold is toxic

One of the primary reasons people panic regarding mold is the health implications it may have. Mold exposure can cause wheezing, stuffy nose, and redness or itchiness of the eyes and skin. Such symptoms can be more severe for individuals with asthma or mold allergies.If you notice allergic reactions or asthma worsening, there may be mold in your house.

But not all molds are toxic. Some, such as Penicillium and Aspergillus flavus, are even beneficial. Penicillium is used to make penicillin, an antibiotic. Aspergillus flavus is used to make cheese. 

1. Mold is new

The issue of mold in homes has only become problematic in the last few decades. It has been accompanied by the increased use of fungicides and a notion that mold is new or has evolved. In the 1970s, there was a significant change in how buildings are constructed. Whereas buildings are now more airtight, they're not exactly watertight, which can lead to greater humidity.

Dampness and a lack of air circulation provide the ideal environment for mold growth. This is why it may seem like mold is new or becoming toxic, but it's only that our homes and buildings have become more conducive for them. On the contrary, being one of the simplest and earliest life forms, mold has been around for thousands of years.

Mold removal

Considering the health implications of mold exposure, it is best to address the issue as soon as possible.  

Is it safe to clean mold by yourself?

In most cases, it is advisable to leave mold remediation to professionals. This is because effective mold removal accounts for more than just the removal of the visible parts. The only time you can try doing it by yourself is when:

• The area covered is small
• Mold growth is on easy-to-clean surfaces such as tiles, sinks, glass, or metal
• The mold is growing on hard-to-clean materials but easy to remove, such as carpets, and you know the right procedures
• You are not allergic to mold or have any condition that can be worsened by exposure to mold

To avoid unnecessary exposure or further exacerbating the problem, you are better off hiring mold remediation professionals.   

Can bleach kill mold?

One of the most popular mold removal tips on the internet is using bleach. So the question is, does bleach kill mold? The answer is yes, and no. The chlorine in bleach can kill the mold on the surface, but on porous surfaces such as wood or drywall, the chlorine will evaporate before it penetrates. Since bleach is mostly water, the solution can actually feed the remaining spores and lead to faster regeneration of mold after the chemical is no longer on the surface.

Can vinegar kill mold?

There are high chances that you have an effective mold removal agent in your house: vinegar. Known to kill 82% of mold species, white vinegar can help you remove and prevent additional outbreaks of mold in the future. When using white vinegar for mold removal, you should:

• Wear protective clothing such as gloves, masks, and goggles
• Apply white distilled vinegar via a spray bottle on the affected surface.
• Let the vinegar sit on the surface for at least an hour without rinsing or scrubbing.
• If you need to scrub the surface, use a baking soda solution. Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with two cups of water and shake them for a thorough mix in a spray bottle.
• Spray the solution on the surface with growth and scrub.
• Use warm water to rinse the area
• Use vinegar or a baking soda solution to respray the area. Let it dry naturally to help kill any remaining mold.

It’s very important to note that you should only try to remove mold yourself in very small areas, and on easily cleaned non-porous materials. If you are dealing with non-porous surfaces or if you notice that there is regrowth shortly after treating an affected area, it's time to let professionals handle the situation.

Can you get rid of mold completely?

Homeowners face two big challenges when it comes to mold removal. First, you will not be sure of whether the mold is completely eradicated. Secondly, there is a high risk you may spread the mold spores to other areas as you clean. The best way to avoid such worries is to call mold remediation professionals,

AdvantaClean offers mold removal and remediation for homes and businesses. Request a service appointment today and let us help you resolve the problem.