When you spot mold in your home, it might be easier to ignore the problem than to think about all the health and property damage risks these fungal growths present. However, mold issues can’t be killed off without proper intervention. Letting the problem run its course will only cause it to spread. To better illustrate the need for professional mold removal, here’s a quick look at what it takes to kill this common household threat.

Why Doesn’t Household Mold Die Naturally? 

People often believe that mold will die on its own because it can dry out and appear to stop growing. However, when these patches are dry, the mold spores have simply entered a state of rest.

Whether due to a steamy shower or window condensation, the spores can be reactivated once the environment is damp again. As long as heat and moisture are present, the fungal agent will continue to break down organic materials and release new spores for growth.

Spraying down or wiping up a moldy patch also won’t necessarily eliminate the infestation. This general cleaning will typically leave some spores behind.

It’s also possible that spores are present beneath the surface. While you may have seemed to clear the visible problem, it will return once humid conditions are back.

How Should Homeowners Approach Mold Removal?

Control Moisture Problems

Resolve any moisture problems that will allow the mold to keep growing and spreading. For example, you might need to repair a plumbing or roofing leak or seal a drafty window.

Call the Professionals

Mold remediation professionals will employ a multi-step process to address the growth in your home. First, these specialists will use testing devices to determine how extensive the problem is—such as to see if it’s growing behind walls.

After the issue is thoroughly diagnosed, they’ll isolate the problem areas and apply special solutions to kill the spores. Next, the surfaces may be carefully wiped clean. In some cases, however, the material—such as drywall— that was impacted by the growth may need to be removed and replaced.

Finally, these teams will employ mitigation tactics to prevent future infestations from occurring. For example, they may install ventilation to improve airflow and reduce humidity levels. Mold-resistant treatments might also be applied to at-risk surfaces.  

 

Don’t wait to take control of mold in your home. Instead, turn to the experts at Big Mountain Insulators in Whitefish, MT. Protecting properties throughout the Flathead Valley for more than four decades, this EPA-certified business provides reliable mold removal and remediation services to keep your home healthy and safe. They’ll also employ advanced waterproofing and moisture control solutions to prevent future spore activity. Visit them online to learn more about their capabilities, or call (406) 862-5446 to request a free estimate.