One consideration is the size of the mold problem. If the moldy area is less than 10 square feet, in most cases, you can handle the job yourself. However you shouldn't hesitate to call the professionals if: There has been a lot of water damage, and/or mold growth covers more than 10 square feet.
They have vast knowledge and experience in removing mold from homes and can track the source of moisture and fix the issue to stop excess moisture from building up in your home. You should also call a mold remediation specialist if you have tried to take care of the problem yourself, but mold keeps coming back.
If you have a stuffy nose, sneezing, watery eyes, shortness of breath, wheezing or other bothersome symptoms that persist, see your doctor.
However, extensive mold growth, persistent odors, or mold caused by water damage require professional remediation. A good rule of thumb is to hire a pro when the mold is in an area larger than 10 square feet, poses health risks, or affects the structural integrity of your home.
A level 3 mold remediation is when mold has spread between 30-100 square feet. When your mold contamination has spread to the size of an entire utility room, it's time to call a local mold remediation company with a good reputation in your area.
It irritates the nose and throat, which can lead to both sneezing and coughing as your body tries to get rid of the irritant. Inhaling mold spores can also trigger coughing in people with allergies or an asthma attack, for those with asthma.
Treatment for Mold Exposure
A doctor will be able to determine whether mold exposure is indeed causing your allergic reactions or if it's likely that another health condition is responsible. For mold allergies, treatments usually include nasal corticosteroid sprays, antihistamines, and decongestants.
If there is a covered condition that the homeowner's insurance policy covers that causes mold, then the insurance company will cover mold remediation. Excess water from a natural cause like a roof leaking after a rain storm is usually covered by a homeowners insurance policy.
By scheduling a mold test, you can locate and remediate mold growth before it becomes a threat. Eventually, this will save your property from major structural damage and you from major pocket damage.
Because of the dangers that black mold can present, it is recommended to hire a professional to complete the mold remediation process.
Hydrogen peroxide, commonly used to disinfect wounds, is active against a wide variety of micro-organisms including mold. It acts by releasing oxygen at a rapid rate, which kills mold by oxidizing the surface and breaking down proteins and DNA.
Homeowners insurance doesn't usually cover mold damage or removal unless it's the result of a covered peril. If the mold in your residence was caused by something sudden or accidental, such as a bursting pipe or some other covered incident on your policy, you may be protected.
In his California market, the cost can range from $275 for a simple visit to $2,900 for a complex inspection. For homes under 4,000 square feet, Angi estimates the average cost is generally between $300 and $400, whereas larger homes may see prices between $700 and $1,000.
Allergy shots and oral medications, including over-the-counter antihistamines, may be recommended or prescribed to treat mold toxicity. Detoxifying the body from the effects of mold toxicity is best performed with a multi-pronged approach.
It can also create a health hazard in your home, especially for the elderly, small children, or those prone to allergic reactions. Thus, ridding your premises of unwanted mold growth is an urgent matter, a true “mold emergency.”
According to the CDC, people usually experience their first symptoms within 2 to 9 hours of their first exposure. On the other hand, some people could go for weeks or months before feeling sick if their exposure is limited enough. This is why it is also important to check damp, dark areas of your home for mold.
Musty Smell
If you think there's mold in your walls, get on your hands and knees and smell the electrical outlets. This might sound silly, but it may help you sense mold if it's growing within walls. Outlets have better access to the area behind the walls. Thus, smelling them can help identify the mold problem.
A: Sleeping in a mouldy room is not advisable. Mould can release spores that, when inhaled during sleep, may lead to respiratory issues and allergies. These can disrupt your sleep and harm your overall health.
One of the most common warning signs of mold toxicity is persistent respiratory issues such as coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing. If you or your family members experience these symptoms, especially when at home, it could be a sign of mold presence.
If the mold growth covers an area of more than 10 square feet (the size of a bath towel), you should consider calling a mold specialist. Cleaning large areas of mold can be tricky. Mold spores are airborne and very hard to keep contained.
Mold inspectors are experts who look for mold growth and moisture damage, which, if left unchecked, could lead to structural and health issues in a property. A mold inspector can work either independently with an inspection company or with a construction company.
Can you stay in your home during mold remediation? It's possible, though experts advise finding another place to stay since crews will need to make adjustments to your living space. The remediation process will affect not only your health but also your comfort level.