Mold and mildew are the two most common problems that we encounter in maintaining ours homes. Molds are types of fungi that dwell and develop in parts of the house with high level of moisture. If left untreated, molds may produce bacteria, fungi, toxins and, odors that can pose a serious threat to the health.
Carpet mold and mildew damage is a matter that should be taken seriously. Keep in mind that mold can consume everything they dwell upon, including upholstered furniture, curtains, draperies, walls, ceilings, clothing and carpets. That is why it is important to know the proper methods for mold & mildew prevention, inspection, & removal.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, protective gear is needed to increase safety before cleaning up the area infested by mold and mildew.
Determine the Mold Damage
It is important to assess the extent of the mold damage in the carpet before starting any mold & mildew prevention, inspection, & removal process. One can handle the mold removal singly if the infested area is 10 sq. feet or less. However, for infestations larger than 10 sq. feet, it is practical to call an expert that offer large scale mold & mildew prevention, inspection, & removal services.
Before starting the cleanup process, it is crucial to identify the principal source of the water damage in order to eliminate the problem. Check the room completely for any leaks or problems in the air control and plumbing systems. A defective sump pump is the principal cause of the leak or flooding in most instances. Mold and mildew also develops in vents and floor air ducts.
When to Restore and When to Throw a Carpet
If the flooding is severe that it soaked the carpet thoroughly, restoring the carpet becomes an impractical option. Mold and mildew consumes fibers in the carpet and it is impossible to restore just by cleaning it. If restoration is impossible, put the carpet in a sealed plastic bag and dispose it to avoid further hazards. If the mold and mildew damage is not serious, the carpet can be restored.
Keeping the Carpet off from Mold and Mildew
Clean the entire carpet area with a steam cleaner using a mixture of water and detergent. Dry the carpet thoroughly. In more severe cases of mold infestation, such as growth of Stachybotrys, commonly known as black mold, it is best to use a stronger mold-killing solution.
The process of mold & mildew prevention, inspection, & removal is actually an easy thing to do. Mold and mildew prevention yields best results as long as the moisture level is checked regularly. Maintain proper ventilation in areas where molds have a higher chance of growth, such as bathrooms and crawlspaces.
