Mold in the cellar is a common problem as a result of regular moisture issues and the shortage of ventilation and light. If the mold problem in your cellar is acute, we strongly recommend hiring professional mold removal services. But if the problem is less intense and you opt to clean the mold yourself, follow along with mold removal guidelines:

Assess the Size of this Affected Surface

If the mold growth area covers less than 10 square feet, you might be able to remove the mold. But areas larger than 10 square feet usually require professional mold removal solutions. Be sure to hire a contractor with expertise in residential or commercial mold elimination. Check them out here to know more.

Wear Protective Gear

Before entering the cellar to start the mold cleanup, wear protective gear: clothing that covers your whole body, dust filter mask or respirator, gloves, and goggles. Throughout the mold removal procedure, mold spores will likely be released into the atmosphere, and trapping them is hazardous.

Fix the Moisture Problem

If you decide to remove mold in your cellar, detect and correct the moisture problem. Mold often happens from the cellar after a flood, in which case you need to rapidly eliminate the water. In other instances, moisture is due to condensation or may seep through walls, ceiling, or flooring because of leaking pipes or cracked surfaces. Find and correct the moisture source and dry the moist surfaces.

Locate the Mold

Once the moisture problem is fixed, detect and remove the mold. It may grow on several different surfaces, including concrete walls, drywall, wall cavities, ceiling, flooring, insulation, furniture, and much more. If you are not sure if what you are looking at is mold, look at using a mold test kit that allows you to sample both air and surfaces for mold spores.

Seal off the Basement

When you are ready to clean out the mold, then seal off the basement to prevent mold spores from spreading into the rest of your house. Use plastic sheets and duct tape to cover openings such as doorways or vents. Additionally, moisten dry mold a bit to prevent mold spores from being stirred up into the atmosphere.

Start Cleaning

Scrub off the mold with water and detergent, or use a mold killing product. Porous materials, such as drywall or carpet, may have to be thrown out and replaced. Once you’ve finished the mold removal, allow surfaces and items to dry thoroughly. Then, vacuum the room with a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner.

Prevent Mold from Recurring

Contemplate waterproofing your basement or applying a sealant to walls or floors after the mold removal is completed. To control the moisture levels in your basement, use a dehumidifier. Vacuum and clean the basement once every week to help prevent basement mold. Prevent condensation by insulating exterior walls, roofs, windows, and pipes.

Mold can also develop in other areas of the house, particularly in the restroom. Learn about bathroom mold removal and prevention here. From time to time, mold may even grow in which you expect. Find out where mold can unexpectedly increase in your home in this article. For professional fire, water, and mold restoration solutions, contact your local PuroClean serving Manatee County or visit their website to find out more.