If you’re considering hiring a mold removal service, you’ll want to make sure you choose the best method for your situation. Thankfully, there are many options, according to pros. The three most common are hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and tea tree oil. If none of these methods work, consider hiring a professional. In most cases, you’ll want to eliminate any affected materials as well. But first, let’s review the causes of mold growth.
Baking soda
A simple DIY solution for mold and mildew is a mixture of baking soda and water. Mix the two ingredients together in a spray bottle and shake well. Simply apply this mixture to the affected area. Leave it to sit for at least 30 minutes and wipe clean with a dry cloth. Repeat if necessary, but it is likely that only one intervention will do the trick. It’s important to note that one intervention will not work for every type of mold, so you may have to repeat the procedure several times.
Hydrogen peroxide
If you’re looking for an affordable, effective solution for mold and mildew removal, try hydrogen peroxide. This common household product contains two hydrogen atoms and two oxygen atoms. It can kill mold and fungus but only when thoroughly saturated with a solution. Hydrogen peroxide should be stored in a dark, cool area to avoid the deterioration it suffers from as it decomposes.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil for mold removal is a great solution for killing black mold. You can mix two teaspoons of the oil with two cups of water, and then spray the solution on the affected area. Let it sit for an hour, then scrub the area to remove any residual residue. If you want to avoid using chemicals, you can also use white distilled vinegar. Simply spray this solution on the moldy surface, and then wipe it off with a wet rag.
Removing affected materials
If you find that you have a mold problem, the best way to deal with it is to remove the affected materials from your property. The first step of this process is to isolate the contaminated area and secure it with duct tape. For Level 2 remediation, you can slip 6 mil polyethylene sheeting into the contaminated area. Before sealing the plastic sheeting, you should mist it with water to reduce dust and then remove porous materials, such as wallpaper and carpeting. To prevent further exposure, it is recommended that you clean up any contaminated material immediately after removal.
Cost of remediation
Depending on the extent of the damage caused by mold, the cost of remediation can range from $3,000 to $10,000. In some cases, a multi-area infestation may require a specialized team to remove the mold. To avoid these expenses, you should hire a professional remediation team. However, if you can remove mold by yourself, the cost could be as low as $50 or $300. A wet vacuum is a great tool to purchase that can remove moisture from wood and carpets.
Samples
If you suspect that your home is suffering from mold growth, one of the first things you should do is collect samples. Mold spores can be found on just about any surface, which means that you have to be able to identify the types and sources of the mold in your home. To obtain these samples, you should collect several of them. Taking the time to collect them can ensure that you get rid of mold in your home once and for all.
Avoiding hiring outside contractors
Before you hire an outside contractor to remove mold, you should gather as much information as possible about the company and its staff. You should know how qualified the mold removal contractor is, as well as whether the workers have undergone training and certification. While some companies may train their employees on the job or through apprenticeships, the best way to ensure the quality of their work is to research the reputation of the company. Make sure that the mold removal company you hire is well-known and has years of experience. Additionally, be aware of the cost involved. While mold removal is a relatively cheap option, it will not give you the same level of service.