Just recently we’ve learned that the basements in our area are getting flooded again thanks to Mother Nature. Unfortunately that also means not only will we need a sump pump to remove the water, but it will also require a little basement black mold removal clean up to keep the black mold at bay and prevent them from returning.
The first step in cleaning up the toxic fungi is to find the source of the problem. In basements, most molds can usually be found behind wall panels, under carpeting and around perimeter walls. Sometimes mold can be on the ceiling, on appliances or even on furniture.
If there is any sort of water damage, it will need to be fixed before you can remove the mold problem. Otherwise it will never really go away. Once you have the source resolved, it’s time to move on and tackle those toxic spores.
First and foremost, bleaching may seem like the wisest and cheapest solution to your do it yourself mold removal project, however it’s not. The problem with bleach is -yes it removes molds, but give it a week and the mold will be back. Bleach doesn’t penetrate the surface where fungi spores tend to hide. So it’s only killing what’s on top and not what’s deep down below the surface. Not to mention that bleach is harmful to both the environment and your lungs.
Instead, you should consider a mold removal product that is environmental safe and easy on your health. Today, there are many products designed specifically for removing mold permanently. Many are also safe on furniture and other areas that can be harmed by bleach.
If you have a wooden surface where the dangerous fungus is growing, you can use a stiff wire brush to loosen the surface of the wood. You’ll want to still use an environmentally safe product, but the brush will bring molds up that have surfaced deep in the grain of the wood.
Keep in mind that while you are working around any type of mold, you’ll want to wear protective attire such as rubber gloves, a paper mask and eyewear. You’ll also want to block off the area where the affected area using a sheet of plastic and some tape. Blocking off the area will keep the spores from polluting other areas that have not been affected.
Once you have effectively cleaned the problem area, you’ll want to prevent it from coming back. One of the most important ways you can do this is by making sure you have air circulating in the room. You may want to consider installing an A/C or fan system to allow for better airflow or at least invest in a dehumidifier to reduce the room’s humidity.
If you don’t consider at least on of the prevention options listed above, your basement mold removal clean up would be all for nothing and you’ll have wasted more money than necessary. That’s why it’s absolutely essential to do everything possible when it comes to the clean up and prevention of toxic mold.