First, let's go over a quick primer on mold. All molds are fungi, and share biology with mushrooms and athlete's foot, for example. The mold that is dangerous to people is relatively uncommon in the fungi kingdom, meaning most kinds aren't dangerous. However, some are dangerous, so any mold in your home or business must be cleaned up and completely removed.

That means reaching out to a a mold damage repair company is the best plan. If you see mold, there is probably more trapped in drywall and crevices and elsewhere.

Before you contact mold cleanup specialists, the first step is to stop the mold from getting worse. Do this by turning off any ventilation. Then, work to halt the dripping or condensation that brought the mold in the first place. For instance, make sure damaged roofs are no longer getting into your ceiling and stop the flow of any moisture that has seeped into your basement. The next step is to contain the problem. You could tape off the area with plastic sheeting, for instance.

Next, you're ready to decide if you need to get professional help. Consider not only the mold area, but also any exacerbating health problems you have. People who already struggle to breathe, for instance, should not perform mold removal activities.

Once you've made the decision, there are important steps to take. If you're performing the cleanup, start with gathering the right safety gear and cleaning supplies. You'll need airtight goggles, clothes that are easy to launder and that cover your arms and legs, a mold-safe mask and mold-approved gloves that reach at least to your forearms. You will also want new disposable rags and disposable plastic sheeting that will help trap the mold you get off. Health officials agree that you should never leave unpainted drywall that is moldy anywhere because it can't be cleaned well enough. A note on cleaning with bleach: Skip it. Bleach is less effective than other detergents and often doesn't kill mold growth. Bleach-based cleaners also puts off toxic fumes, especially if it's ever mixed with substances such as Windex, which contains ammonia. Find better alternatives at most big box stores.

If you're concerned enough about mold damage to do online research, you need mold removal technicians service. If you choose to hire a mold removal service, find one in your city because different kinds of mold thrive in different areas and you want people who know the best mold damage repair strategies to remove what you have found in your home or business. The more local, the better.

Before you hire anyone, make sure that they are certified properly and that they are approved by trade organizations such as the Restoration Industry Association, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration and Contractor Connection. You might also make sure the company knows and follows federal mold cleanup recommendations whether your mold is in a business or a residence.

Mold damage that is allowed to grow sends off spores, which act like seeds and can harm your possessions very quickly. If not, mold damage will keep eating on your home or business and will destroy your possessions.

The ideal way to handle your mold problem is to get professional mold damage assistance. Don't wait another minute.