4 Reasons Why Mold Removal is Not a DIY Project

Search “DIY mold removal” on the internet (you probably already have!)—what do you see? Likely, you will find article after article suggesting different methods to rid your home of mold all by yourself—no professional assistance required.

You might find tips about mold removal involving bleach or a homemade DIY mold remover formula. But mold clean-up is not that simple! In fact, you might cause more harm than good by attempting to DIY your way out of a mold infestation. If you’re suspicious that you have a mold problem on your hands and you’re thinking of trying your hand at getting rid of it yourself, read this article first. 

How Do You Know If Your Home Has a Mold Problem?

Before you even think about taking steps towards mold remediation it’s important to determine if you have a mold problem at all. So what are the telltale signs? Well, large mold infestations are usually visibly obvious. Sometimes they will also be accompanied by a smell. It is often described as "earthy" or "musty".

It’s not uncommon for mold to crop up after water damage. Believe it or not, an outbreak can take hold a mere 24 - 48 hours after a leak springs up. Mold also thrives in high moisture areas such as the bathroom or kitchen. Basements, attics, and crawl spaces can also be common places mold can easily grow in.

Individuals with allergies or breathing conditions may be more susceptible to mold infections or reactions. If you notice black mold (among other types) you need to get assistance fast. Actually seeing mold is a sign that you have a serious problem.

4 Reasons Why Mold Removal is Not a DIY Project

Mold removal, in any form, can be dangerous for your health and the health of your family. You can also inadvertently cause damage to your home if you botch a DIY mold removal. Before you decide to handle the issue yourself, keep in mind the potential consequences. Here are 4 reasons why you should avoid DIY mold removal and call in the professionals instead.

1. You Might Not Properly Assess the Damage

Mold is a tricky thing. You might think you’ve rid yourself of the problem when you can’t see it anymore—but that’s only half of it. If you don’t know where to look for mold, you might miss a spot and not properly assess your property’s damage. Even if you successfully eliminate all the living mold, spores can still linger on the walls, in your carpet, on your furniture, and even in the air. Professionals will do a thorough inspection and remove both mold and mold spores from every nook and cranny of the affected area. 

2. Mold Might Return

Improper mold removal techniques might not get rid of the mold for good. Lingering mold spores could lead to a second mold infestation. Often, DIYers are not trained in professional mold removal – they don’t know to look in hidden areas for mold either. When you overlook areas where mold and mold spores might still exist, it’s bound to come back with a vengeance sooner or later. To ensure the mold is gone for good, it’s best to bring in professionals to clean and inspect the space for repeat offenders. They will bring in professional equipment to clean the entire affected area and cleanse the air.  

3. It’s Expensive to Remove by Yourself

How many times have you decided to DIY only to spend money and still not fix the problem? Mold removal is one of those projects that requires special supplies and lots of time. If you don’t knock out the problem on the first try, that’s money down the drain. Then you’ll likely end up hiring a professional anyway. There are many special tools necessary to get rid of mold once and for all. From the onset of mold, it’s best to address the problem immediately by contacting a mold removal specialist ASAP. 

4. You Put Your Health at Risk

In addition to the monetary expenses, you also put your health at risk when you try to remove mold yourself. Some may not experience the immediate effects of mold exposure—but some do. Exposure to damp and moldy environments can cause a variety of health effects, especially in people with existing respiratory issues. Many experience nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing, wheezing, eye irritation, or skin irritation. 

How to Prevent a Mold Infestation

How can mold be prevented before it’s seen? Be aware of the conditions that can cause mold – water leaks, condensation, infiltration, or flooding. Once you track down the root of the issue,  correct it immediately to prevent mold from growing. Here are some more quick tips on mold prevention:

• Open windows when you can. This can help circulate the air and dry out moisture. Do this for 5-15 minutes in areas of concern daily to decrease the chance of mold growth.
• Dry up wet areas. Don't allow standing water to collect in areas such as the bathroom or kitchen. Be mindful of wet clothes too. Don't leave wet laundry in the wash too long or leave piles of moist clothes lying around.
• Waterproof your home. Catch leaks before they happen. Periodically check for areas that might need to be resealed. They can appear around windows, in the basement, and in the attic.
• Run the exhaust fan after you shower. This will quickly rid your bathroom of moisture so mold won't have the opportunity to grow in your grouting, shower curtain, and towels.
• Keep your eye out for plumbing issues. Be sure pipe leaks don't catch you by surprise. Take a peek at your plumbing every so often so you can correct small leaks before they can cause a problem.
• Make sure your storage items are dry. Piles of forgotten “junk” are a breeding ground for mold and mildew if left unchecked. Be sure you store items in a dry area.

Don’t Risk It - Call 970 Services for Mold Removal 

At 970 Services, we understand mold growth. Our team is always professional, attentive, and willing to go the distance for any and all of our clients in Northern Colorado.

If you are ever faced with a mold problem, leak, flood, or natural disaster, remember to call a local, trusted home restoration company (like us!) first. Need assistance ASAP? Contact us today for a free estimate!