YouTube and the internet have made most of us weekend warriors, tackling our own home improvement or repair tasks, such as DIY mold removal. While it may feel great to save money and do tasks yourself, certain tasks, including mold removal, should be left to the professionals.
Trying to remove mold yourself without proper training and equipment can put you, your family, and your house at risk. Here’s why DIY can do more harm than good and why trusting professional mold remediation experts is key.
1. Mold is More Than What You See
Many people assume mold only exists on the surface; if you don’t see it, it isn’t there. This is often not the case. Mold thrives on organic materials like drywall, wood, and insulation, so simply wiping the wall will not eliminate mold.
While common household cleaners may remove visible mold, that doesn’t mean there isn’t more lurking beneath the surface. Professional mold remediation specialists can detect mold behind walls and other surfaces with specialized equipment, such as moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras, to determine if more mold remediation is necessary than simply wiping the surface.
2. Mold Spores Spread Easily
Many homeowners don’t realize how easily and quickly mold spores spread. Mold spores are microscopic and, when disturbed, can quickly spread to other areas of the home. Tasks that seem helpful, like scrubbing a wall or vacuuming, could innocently spread mold spores throughout the house, worsening the issue.
When you have professional mold remediation, such as the experts at Pinnelli Mold Pros, you can rest assured that the proper steps are taken to isolate and contain the mold spores. We also use negative air pressure to avoid spreading the spores and proper techniques to safely remove affected materials without contaminating the rest of the house as can occur with DIY mold removal.
3. You Could Put Your Health at Risk
If you disturb the mold spores in your house, you could risk your health or the health of those you love. People with asthma, allergies, or auto-immune diseases are at the highest risk and may experience coughing, itching skin, wheezing, or sneezing.
Not wearing the proper protective gear during mold removal can allow you to inhale the mold spores, which can be detrimental. Unfortunately, a simple dust mask or gloves isn’t enough. Specialized gear, such as respirators and protective suits, is necessary to keep everyone safe.
4. Most Household Cleaners are Not Enough
Many people assume basic household cleaners are enough to kill mold, but they typically only get to the surface of the problem. This includes bleach and vinegar, both known for their mold-killing properties.
In some situations, bleach can even worsen the problem because it adds moisture to the area, which mold spores thrive on, making it grow more. Experts use industry-standard antimicrobial products that treat various surfaces and prevent future outbreaks during professional mold remediation.
5. You May Overlook the Real Problem
Visible mold is usually a symptom of a much larger problem, typically excess moisture or humidity. For example, a leaky pipe may have caused water damage, which then caused mold growth. If you only clean up the mold and don’t fix the source of the problem, the chances are high that the mold will return.
Professional mold experts get to the root of the problem and either remediate it themselves or refer you to specialists who can handle it for long-term protection.
When Should you Call for Professional Mold Remediation?
Some jobs may be suitable for DIY mold removal, but if you notice any of the following, consider calling experts like those at Pinnelli Mold Pros:
- The mold covers more than 10 square feet
- There are signs of water damage and excess moisture on drywall or insulation
- You can’t find the source of a musty odor
- You or household members have chronic health issues
- Your property had recent water damage
A proper mold remediation company will conduct a thorough mold inspection, provide a customized treatment plan, and help you safely remove the mold.
Final Thoughts
DIY projects can feel great, especially when you think you’re saving money, but mold removal isn’t an area to cut corners. If done wrong, DIY mold removal can cost you more money.
When it comes to mold and water damage issues, contact professional mold remediation experts, like those at Pinnelli Mold Pros, to ensure you get the job done right the first time.