Do you have signs of mold and wondering if you need a professional mold cleaning service? Mold typically is not a problem, despite being everywhere in the environment. If you were to complete an air test, the results would include some level of mold. However, it can become a health issue is it grows out of control. When spores land on damp or wet spots in a home, they will begin to grow. 

If you have experienced water damage from weather or leaking pipes, the conditions exist for mold to grow and become a possible health risk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states, "Studies of mold growth on building materials, such as plywood, have found that mold grows on materials that remain wet for 48--72 hours. Flooding, particularly when floodwaters remain for days or weeks, provides an almost optimal opportunity for mold growth."

Nonetheless, the question still remains whether or not you need a mold cleaning and remediation service if you find mold. The U.S. Department of Environmental Protection states if you discover of a moldy area less than 10 square feet (roughly a 3 ft. by 3 ft. patch) then it is something most people can handle themselves. 

• Fix the cause of the water problem.
• Clean mold off hard surfaces.
• Throw away any ceiling tiles, carpeting, or other porous materials.
• Never paint over moldy surfaces.
• If you are unsure of the results, contact a restoration and remediation service.

However, keep in mind how small a 10 square feet area is, and that there is a hidden mold possibility. Cleaning and remediation can require the use of protective clothing and a respirator. There is also a need for using a disinfectant, a biocide, or professional-grade cleaning solutions. Additionally, larger cleanups require special training to avoid causing spore to become airborne and making things worse.  

Therefore, because of how quickly mold can spread, and the risk to personal health if mishandled, in most cases using a certified and licensed mold cleaning and remediation service like ServiceMaster Quality Services is the best option. If you would like to talk about mold cleaning and remediation, or need more information, please contact us.