
20 Ways on How To Get Rid of Mold In House Effectively or Naturally
1. Dispose mold contaminated items
- Effectiveness – (Simple but very effective)
- Cost – (Free)
- Best used in – Non sentimental value, non-redeemable items e.g. paper box, wooden floorboard, gypsum board
A no-brainer solution in getting rid of mold. It doesn’t take long before mold start spreading his colony where the whole conquering process could take up to 12 days. Most species of mold grow within 24 to 48 hours and usually it’s already too late when you spotted the moldy patch. Disposing or throwing away a mold damaged item like paper container, plastic chair, soft toy is a quick and easy way to stop mold from spreading. There is also no cleaning process or the reliance on chemical detergent that could leave toxic residues or harmful gases. If is an unwanted item that is beyond redeemable, it will also not cost you much other than the sentimental value of the item. The downside of this solution is obviously when the item is still cleanable/ repairable, there is no point of tossing the item away where you could actually spend some time in clearing the mold out with any of the solutions below.
- The quickest and simplest way to get rid of mold and stop the microorganism from spreading.
- Does not cost you a dime other than the value of the item.
- No toxic residue or dangerous fumes created in the entire process.
- Certain items like floorboard is time consuming to remove and requires some handyman skill.
- Instead of disposing, there are items that is easily redeemable or cleanable with vinegar, baking soda or hydrogen peroxide.
2. Vacuum with HEPA vacuum cleaner
- Effectiveness – (Partially effective)
- Cost – (+- $60 – 400 for vacuum cleaner and +- $6 for vacuum bag)
- Best used in – Floorboard, floor carpet, porcelain tiles, wall
Not just any vacuum, HEPA vacuum cleaner that comes with HEPA filter bag to trap mold and other small particles contaminants. As human eyes cannot see anything smaller than 40 microns size, mold size can vary between 1 to 100 microns compare with human hair that has average of 50 microns size. A HEPA vacuum cleaner can quickly trap 99.97% of tiny particles as small as 0.3 micron size that in theory would cover all indoor mold species. With less microorganisms being stirred up into the air, there are less likelihood of mold spreading and growing to other places through airborne. Vacuuming with HEPA vacuum cleaner also significantly reduce allergy reactions like asthma from being triggered by mold and other microscopic particles.
Solely relying on HEPA vacuum cleaner is not enough has it cannot remove strong, resilient mold that has penetrated beneath porous materials. Whether is in handheld form or canister form, HEPA vacuum is more expensive than standard vacuum cleaner and the HEPA vacuum bag is also costlier to maintain. Only consider HEPA vacuum cleaner as a preventive measure or pre-cleaning compliment/ addon to your other cleaning solutions.
- Takes little time to clear out large chunk of moldy spot on hard surfaces.
- Eco-friendly method and can be reuse over and over again.
- Also get rid of other allergies triggering microorganisms at one go.
- Can only target surface mold that is not absorbed beneath porous materials e.g. insulation wall, wood furniture.
- Costly as HEPA vacuum cleaner and its replacement HEPA bag will cost more than non-HEPA vacuum cleaner.
3. Killing mold with Detergent and Water
- Effectiveness – (Partially effective)
- Cost – (+- $10)
- Best used in – Non-porous materials e.g. wall tiles, basin, windows metal frame, plastic
A quick, simple solution that only requires laundry detergent and warm water. How laundry detergent or washing powder works is the surfactants compound attract impurities i.e. dirt, grease and combines them into more soluble, washable form. Most modern detergent is also an oxidizer that can oxidize substances like black mold and other microorganisms so it could be easily scrub away with the above mixture. Regardless of the brand, choose from either powder or liquid detergent but preferable not pacs/ tablets as you only need a low concentration level.
As with most non-homemade household cleaners, detergent will leave little chemical residues here and there even though it does not share the same toxicity level as bleach. It is also not a particularly effective mold eliminator as the chemicals would only wash away mold on hard surfaces.
- Easily clear away mold and other microorganism that grows on non-porous surface.
- Specific detergent that is oxygen based (oxidizing agent) can help destain and brighten mold spot.
- Available in most household thereby extra purchasing is not necessarily.
- While detergent with warm water can penetrate porous items to remove dirt, it can only target mold patches at surface level.
- While not as toxic as chlorine bleach, leftover detergent residues are harmful to our body especially if you have children hanging around.
4. Killing Mold with Chlorine Bleach
- Effectiveness – (Partially effective)
- Cost – (+- $10)
- Best used in – Non-porous materials e.g. tiles, bathtubs, glass, countertops
An effective mold eliminator but not without its controversy. Chlorine bleach can kill off virtually any species of mold particularly the notorious Stachybotrys AKA black mold plus other fungi that grows with it. The sodium hypochlorite ingredient in chlorine bleach would denatures the protein in mold thereby destroying the microorganism. Chlorine bleach can also act as an antimicrobial pesticide that prevent mold and other fungi from growth. Let’s not forget that Chlorine bleach is still a household product that it is cheap and available everywhere.
The controversy part: It cannot eliminate mold that has penetrated inside porous materials like wood and drywall. The hidden mold would continue to grow underneath the surface on matter how many layer of bleach you applied on. While chlorine bleach can help destain any moldy area or non-porous materials, overusing it would have a reverse effect that could cause permanent discolorization on the tiles. There is also the “small matter” of dangerous fumes released from chlorine bleach that can cause many respiratory side effects in long-run.
- Not just mold, bleach is strong enough to eliminate any species of fungi on the surface including mildew and spores.
- Creates a layer resistant of surface that inhibit mold from further growth.
- Destain any blacken spot or stain caused by mold.
- Common and affordable household product.
- Can only eliminate surface mold. Any mold or fungi that has absorbed into porous materials like wood, drywall will remain untouched.
- Overuse of bleach would have a reverse effect where it discolor your tiles or countertops.
- Emit little but toxic fumes that could aggravate asthma and other respiratory problems.
5. Killing Mold with Hydrogen Peroxide
- Effectiveness – (Effective)
- Cost – (+- $5)
- Best used in – Porous and non-porous materials e.g. tiles, bathtubs, clothes, carpet, wall
Perhaps the better alternative to bleach, Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) is a chemical compound that appears in pale blue liquid with slightly more viscosity than water. Known for its powerful oxidizing ability, Hydrogen peroxide is effective in decomposing surface and hidden mold through the rapid release of oxygen. Applying a thin layer of Hydrogen peroxide will also help create an anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial protection that inhibit mold and other microorganism from multiplying. Another advantage Hydrogen Peroxide has over bleach is the usability in porous and non-porous materials like tiles, carpet or fabric and as an added bonus point, Hydrogen Peroxide can also work as a bleaching agent where any blacken spot will be clear off and brighten.
The downside? Hydrogen Peroxide does not possess the same removal strength as chlorine bleach. Over spraying of Hydrogen Peroxide might causes discolorization on upholstery and fabric. Other than that, there is very little reason not to go with Hydrogen peroxide. Available as a concentrated bottle or antispectic spray, a 3% Hydrogen peroxide cost only few dollars at most and is available at most drug stores.
- Comprehensive removal that covers both surface and hidden mold that has penetrated inside porous materials.
- Also works as an anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial agent.
- Safe for user and environment as Hydrogen Peroxide does not leave any toxic residue.
- Gentle bleaching effect that can brighten or lighten the applied area.
- Very cheap and easily purchasable online and most drug store.
- Not as strong as bleach in removing highly corroded mold patches.
- Excessive concentration level of Hydrogen Peroxide can cause damage to your fabric, carpet.
6. Killing Mold with Ammonia
- Effectiveness – (Partially effective)
- Cost – (+- $6 – 15)
- Best used in – Non-porous materials e.g. tiles, bathtubs, windows metal frame, glass, countertops
Like chlorine beach, Ammonia is an inorganic cleaning product used to remove blacken spot, dirt, grime, stains and of course mold. Essentially a compound of nitrogen and hydrogen with the formula NH3, Ammonia is not as common as it used to be due to the toxicity and pungent smell it carries when in gas form. Still, a good mold remover that can clear away almost all types of microorganism on non-porous materials, we do not endorse the use of ammonia as there is much better and safer natural alternatives.
Ammonia is used in the making of plastics, dyes, pesticides and explosives. An indicationof how strong its chemical compound is yet frustratingly, it can only remove mold and other fungi that grows on the surface. Ammonia is ineffective against non-porous items like drywall or wood that can be penetrated by mold, resulted a never ending growing cycle if is not dealt with. Again we have to emphasis, ammonia and bleach does not goes well together. Mixing the 2 up can lead to high dangerous, toxic vapors that can be deadly when inhaled.
- The combination strength of nitrogen and hydrogen can wipe off any species of fungi including mold at surface level.
- Break down strong resistant grime and stains at the same time.
- Like chlorine bleach, ammonia can only break down mold that grows on the surface making it ineffective on porous materials like drywall.
- Highly toxic that can cause irritation and damage to skin, eyes, respiratory system. NEVER mix ammonia with chlorine bleach!
7. Killing Mold with Talcum powder
- Effectiveness – (Partially effective)
- Cost – (+- $5 – 11)
- Best used in – Shoes, clothes, hat, leather goods, coats
If you are not familiar with talcum powder, it is the equivalent of baby powder used to absorb excess moisture and help cut down on friction. Mold needs high humidity environment for growth and the lack of moisture will effectively cut off their main source of survival. Most talcum powder can provide mild deodorization whether is through its own scent overlapping or odor dispersion. Pricing wise is also on the low side with plenty of varieties to choose from. In spite all of that, we would not recommend talcum powder as your main mold removal option as it is not very effective against surface area mold let alone mold that has penetrated inside porous materials like wood. Because talcum powder is made from talc, a natural mineral that may contain deposits of asbestos, and we all know asbestos is a known carcinogen (cancer linked substance in living tissue). A very bad substitute against mold.
- Drain all moisture needed for mold while deodorize at the same time.
- Works nicely with other mold remover like baking soda, vinegar or hydrogen peroxide.
- Inexpensive and can use straight out of box.
- One of the least effective method in removing mold patches. Long-exposure to talc is known to cause cancer.
- Poor against porous items like drywall where mold and other fungi can reproduce inside.
8. Killing Mold with Borax
- Effectiveness – (Highly effective)
- Cost – (+- $12)
- Best used in – Porous and non-porous materials e.g. tiles, wood, vinyl, drywall
Often considered a borderline between natural and chemical pesticides. Borax is a white, odorless naturally occurring mineral that is available for purchase in crystalline powder or liquid spray form. Not to be confused with boric acid (hydrogen borate), Borax is sodium tetraborate or sodium borate boron compounds with alkaline of about pH 9.3. Well known as an alternative, natural homemade detergent, the very high alkaline of Borax creates an unsustainable environment for mold that usually thrive between the range of pH 3 to 7, thus effectively killing them off with zero chances of further growth. Ideal for porous and non-porous materials that will not cause any discoloration, the biggest advantage of Borax over the other mold eliminator like Chlorine Bleach is it will not emit any toxic fumes that could trigger asthma or other respiratory issues. Other highlights of Borax include the disinfectant, deodorization attribute and easily accessible price tag. As a safety reminder, keep Borax out of children reach especially when you leave the powder leftover exposed.
- High in alkaline which makes it very effective on porous and non-porous materials e.g. tiles, wood, wall.
- Does not cause any stain or discolorization on the applied material.
- Leftover Borax on the surface will work as a disinfectant and deodorization.
- Both Powder and Spray based Borax that does not release any dangerous fumes or chemicals when in use.
- Cheap household product that cost no more than $13.
- Not safe with toddler as the risk of ingestion is higher.
9. Killing Mold with Vinegar
- Effectiveness – (Effective)
- Cost – (+- $4 – 10)
- Best used in – Porous and non-porous materials (sparingly)
Vinegar is a natural, good alternative to your typical mold removal detergent that can be found in most household kitchen. There are many different types of vinegar from the popular apple cider vinegar, rice vinegar, balsamic vinegar to the less common beer vinegar, coconut vinegar and raisin vinegar. The one we are looking for is distilled white vinegar that is made of acetic acid (5 – 10 %) and water (90 – 95%). The purest, low acidic pH of 2.5 form that would effectively denatures protein in mold resulting the entire structure deform. Other benefits of using vinegar over chemicals detergent is the non-toxic, asthma and child-friendly liquid would not leave any stains so you could apply it on any type of surfaces without wearing gloves and mask.
A perfect all-rounder yet not without its flaw. Vinegar is less effective than a concentrated detergent like Bleach as it can only target 82% of species mold in home due to specific molds have very low pH. Vinegar will also leave a unique smell on the applied area that will take some time to go away.
- Effective on porous and somewhat effective on non-porous materials with its low acidic pH 2.5.
- Does not cause any stain or discolorization on the surface.
- Easy to apply, does not require wash off and can prevent mold and other bacteria growth.
- Non-toxic, all-natural and safe around children.
- A very generic, cheap product and usually is already available in every household.
- Slightly effective on specific species of mold compare with Borax or concentrated detergent.
- Distinctive vinegar odor smell that will take some time to dissipate especially if is soaked into porous materials like wood, carpet.
10. Killing Mold with Baking Soda
- Effectiveness – (Effective)
- Cost – (+- $3 – 10)
- Best used in – Porous and non-porous materials (sparingly)
The perfect partner to vinegar, baking soda is the all-natural, green-getter favorite home remedy/ cleaning solution that has high alkaline similar to Borax. Comprised of only one ingredient: sodium bicarbonate, baking soda high pH 8.1 create an inhabitable environment for microorganisms including mildew, spore and the infamous black mold. Like most natural made products, baking soda is very cheap (less than few dollars) and harmless therefore it is safe for all including children and pets (it is used in food after all). Compliment well with vinegar, you can mix up both to form the ultimate mold remover that cover virtually all types of mold in home species. Baking soda can also deodorize, suck up moisture on porous items e.g. carpet and act as an antimicrobial agent that stop mold from growing. The one and only reason not to use baking soda to remove mold is you ran out of baking soda.
- High alkaline based that is effective on porous (wood, plaster) but less effective on non-porous materials (tiles, vinyl).
- Works best with vinegar for more comprehensive mold elimination.
- Does not cause any stain regardless of the amount applied.
- Deodorize, drain moisture on the applicable item and also work as an antimicrobial agent.
- Non-toxic cleaner that does not release any dangerous fumes or chemicals.
- Available storewide and cost no more than few dollars (small pack).
- Less effective compare with commercial mold cleaner products or concentrated detergents.
11. Killing Mold with Grapefruit Seed Extract
- Effectiveness – (Effective)
- Cost – (+- $10 – 18)
- Best used in – Porous and sparingly on non-porous materials e.g. tiles, glass, wood, carpet, metal grill, plastics
Grapefruit seed extract (GSE) or citrus seed extract is a liquid extract derived from the seeds, pulp, and membranes of grapefruit. A natural medicinal that gains a lot of traction particularly in South America and Europe, Grapefruit seed extract is rich in nutrients and phytochemicals (vitamin C, hesperidin, tocopherols, sterols, citrus acid, limonoids). As a result, there are many healing benefits gain from Grapefruit seed extract (look it up) but the one we will be focusing on its citrus acid: the mold killer. Mixing a few drops of this grapefruit seed extract not only get rid of surface and hidden mold plus other harmful microorganisms, it’s odorless, has an antibacterial effect and gentle deodorization as oppose to Tea Tree Oil pungent smell. It’s little bit on the pricey side, but given the little amount needed and its good shelf life record, we highly recommend this miracle baby!
- Very effective against mold yet without any of the harmful substances like bleach or ammonia.
- No rinsing needed as the remainder grapefruit seed extract will also work as an antibacterial (disinfect germs) and deodorization.
- Good shelf-life that opened bottle can last 1- 2 years with unchanged potent.
- Like grapefruit seed extract, it is slightly pricey for a small 5 oz bottle.
12. Killing Mold with Tea Tree Oil
- Effectiveness – (Effective)
- Cost – (+- $11 – 24)
- Best used in – Porous and sparingly on non-porous materials e.g. tiles, glass, wood, carpet, metal grill, plastics
Probably the most effective amount other natural fungicides, tea tree oil or melaleuca oil is a harmless, toxic-free essential oil derived from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia plant in Australia. Known for its wound healing ability on wounds and the part we will be looking into: its antibacterial properties. Just a few drops or 1 teaspoon of tea tree oil can kill off surface area mold and to a certain extent, other fungi that has penetrated to porous materials e.g. wood, carpet, wall. Like grapefruit seed extract, tea tree oil also comes with antifungal and antibacterial ability that disinfect germs from growing.
There few things you need to know before opting for tea tree oil. Number one is the cost (higher but still within acceptable range), second is the variant (Melaleuca Alternifolia is a must in the bottle ingredient) and third its fresh camphoraceous odor that can nauseating to some but give it an hour or two and the smell will dissipate.
- A natural fungicide that kills all types of mold without producing any of the toxic residues or fumes.
- No clean up require as the surplus tea tree oil will work as anti-fungal and antibacterial (inhibit microorganism growth).
- Reusable with losing its potency on condition that the bottle is kept in cool, dry place.
- Slightly expensive for a small concentrated bottle compare with other natural cleaners.
- Distinctive “Tea Tree Oil” smell that might not be everyone cup of tea.
13. Killing Mold with Cinnamon essential oil
- Effectiveness – (Effective)
- Cost – (+- $7 – 20)
- Best used in – Porous and sparingly on non-porous materials
- Clear out most species of mold while providing an uplifting with hint of spiciness scent.
- No clean up needed on the residues as it is harmless and has a mild antibacterial effect.
- Reusable, store well with no sign of lost potency.
- Costly but overly so for a small 4 oz bottle.
14. Killing Mold with Oregano essential oil
- Effectiveness – (Effective)
- Cost – (+- $9 – 22)
- Best used in – Porous and sparingly on non-porous materials
- Eliminate mold, mildew other fungi while clovey, spicey, smokey.
- Additional antimicrobial protection (inhibit microorganism growth) on the applied area.
- Can be reuse repeatedly without having to worry in lost potency over a period of time.
- For a small concentrated bottle, oregano essential oil it is comparatively expensive than other kitchen ingredients.
15. Killing Mold with Thyme essential oil
- Effectiveness – (Effective)
- Cost – (+- $8 – 22)
- Best used in – Porous and sparingly on non-porous materials
- Remove surface’s mold while providing a natural herbaceous with slight balsamic scent.
- The remainder residues will act as an antiseptic that protects the surface from microorganism’s growth.
- Good shelf-life and only requires little amount of thyme essential oil.
- Cost as much as other essential oils listed here.
16. Killing Mold with Clove essential oil
- Effectiveness – (Effective)
- Cost – (+- $7 – 20)
- Best used in – Porous and sparingly on non-porous materials
- Eradicate mold and other fungi while providing a distinctive sweet and spicy clove aroma.
- Mild antiseptic effect (prevent the growth of microorganisms) on sprayed area.
- Opened bottle can be reuse multiple times without have to worry any loss of potency.
- As with most essential oils, a small concentrated bottle is costly depending on the popularity of the brand.
17. Killing Mold with Lemon Juice
- Effectiveness – (Partially effective)
- Cost – (+- $4 – 11)
- Best used in – Clothes and porous materials e.g. tiles, glass, basin, countertop
A natural all-purpose kitchen cleaner, lemon juice we use in our food and drinks can also be turned into a mold destroyer. Reason for that is the 5% to 6% citric acid juice that contributes to lemon acidic characteristic (around pH 2.2), forcing an inhabitable environment for mold to growth. Lemon juice is also non-intrusive with no strong odor or toxicity fume, you can safety leave the applied area as a natural antimicrobial without rinsing. Diluted or concentrated lemon juice can clear off light mold stains but work best when mixed with other natural cleaner like baking soda without have to worry about chemical reactions. The multi-purpose lemon juice does have its flaws, mainly it can only remove mold on hard surfaces while mold tucked inside porous items is left untouched. Lemon juice is also less effective compare with other natural mold solutions like natural tea tree oil or grapefruit seed extract.
- Remove mold and other fungi on the surface base through its acidic characteristic.
- Mix well with other chemical or natural mold cleaner without causing any chemical reactions.
- Does not require after rinsing and will work as a natural antimicrobial protection.
- It’s cheap, easily obtainable and you have the option of using fresh or concentrated bottle.
- Requires more time and effort compare with other natural tea tree oil, vinegar or grapefruit seed extract method.
- Does not remove mold and other fungi that is hidden inside porous materials like wood.
18. Killing Mold with Vodka
- Effectiveness – (Partially effective)
- Cost – (+- $13 – 25)
- Best used in – Hard surface, non-porous materials
Little do you know that vodka or “Little Water” when directly translated to Russian, can actually eliminate mold, mildew, spore and other fungi. This Russian origin, distilled alcoholic spirit is mainly composed of water and ethanol, the combination used to clean and sterilize items. While like most natural mold removal, vodka will have mild antibacterial effect on applied surfaces, relying solely on vodka is rather impractical given its expensive price tag and the ineffectiveness against porous items. The strong alcohol smell might also lead to minor headache, nausea, nose or throat irritation that can be completely avoided if you use any of the above natural ways. Still, if vodka is your only available option, choose a colorless, straight vodka that has no impurities or flavoring so you have the highest alcohol content.
- Sterilize mold and provide mild antibacterial effect.
- Can use straight out of box without any mixture. No clean up afterwards.
- Ineffective other than against mold on hard surfaces like tiles.
- Expensive and less accessible compare other everyday home ingredients.
- The fumes might lead to minor throat and nose irritation or headache, nausea feel.
19. Hire Mold Remediation Specialist or Certified Mold Contractor
- Effectiveness – (Very effective)
- Cost – (+- $500 – 8000)
- Best used when – Mold growth is more than 10 square feet or unmanageable, significant property damage
When mold is starting to eat up your house and you can spot mold patches at every corner, you know this is beyond the realm of your reach. All hope is not lost as you have your final trump card, hiring a certified mold remediation specialist. There are big differences in job scoop between your diy method and hire professional. A licensed mold remediation is a all-in-one contractor that would perform a full inspection on the cause of the mold contamination, inspect the damage and assess time needed to complete the task. With your full consent, only then would they perform the mold cleanup, repair, restoration work and final checkup before passing back the keys to you. This is a long step-by-step process that involves exposing to safety and health risk, requires a lot of effort, patience and experience. There is a lot of peeling, prying and crawling up to tight spaces that cannot be done without the proper training and toolsets.
There are a lot of things to consider when hiring a mold remediation expert, first and utmost is the cost where even a small room would be in the region of $500 or higher. Understandable given it’s a long and tedious job. It is also very inconvenience from a homeowner perspective as a typical mold remediation job would take 1 – 5 days excluding home that is heavily damaged by flood. The best scenario is you only need to shut off part of the HVAC system and leave the contaminated room isolated. Worst scenario is you and your family would have to leave your house until the mold remediation process is completed. Even if your home has been assessed to be mold-free and all mold cause has been rectified, there is no guarantee that the mold problem would not come back again. Still, at the end of the day when you or your family health is at risk and you know this is the only option left, killing off mold once and for all could be your smartest decision ever made.
- The ultimate answer in removing mold inside and out that is not possible through standard scrubbing method.
- Guaranteed result will official certification plus pre and post mold damage inspection.
- All-in-one solution that save you the hassle from dealing with different contractors, carpenter or technician.
- Save time and money on safety equipment, cleaning supplies, training and research.
- Free yourself from the health and safety risk during the long process of cleanup and repair.
- Restore mold contaminated items to the original state that otherwise would have been disposed.
- The costliest solution where even minor remediation could cost $500 or more.
- Typical mold remediation job takes 1 – 5 days depending on the level of mold infestation.
- Walls, carpet and even tiles might need to be take apart and tear down during the remediation process.
- If there is significantly damage to the home, homeowner is required to isolate the room or temporary move out of the house.
20. Separately hire HVAC technician, carpenter, plumber or painter for specific task
- Effectiveness – (Very effective)
- Cost –
- Best used when – Mold growth is more than 10 square feet or out of your skill set
Like mold remediation, there are mold problems that is not within your expertise and instead of going through a set of frustration figuring out what to do, hiring a specialist (may or may not have the mold certification) would save you significantly in cost, time and even your sanity. A dedicated specialist/ repairman will fully committed on their particular repair works without any concern of derailing. For example, a carpenter would focus on cleaning and removing carpet that has been infested with mold, a plumber would fix any leaky pipes to cut off the mold growth source. The hiring cost is drastically cut down compare with full mold remediation and you will also save up on safety equipment like safety glasses, utility knife, N-95 respirator, window fan, rubber gloves and plastic sheeting. Perhaps most critically, letting other people to do the job means there is no mold exposure health risk involved that could lead to many respiratory problems. There is also practically zero safety risk where you could injure yourself accidentally from falling parts or slipping if everything is self-handled.
There are pros and cons in everything and no exception with this separately hiring method. First there is no final cost planned out so don’t be surprise when the bills start piling up if your mold issue still does not get rectified. Second is the lack of communication or understanding between you and contractors so often there is overlapping or missed work during the mold removing process. Lastly, most of these repairmen does not hold the credibility or certification in mold removal therefore the risk of mold returning is drastically higher. Still, if you are very certain what is the cause of the mold infestation and knew where to tackle them, this method might be worth a shot.
- Dedicated job that specializes in sorting out issue (including mold) from their respected field.
- Save time and money from the pre-inspection check and straight to the source of the problem.
- No additional purchase of safety tools and cleaning equipment for the job.
- Free from injury or allergic reactions that could happen during the mold cleanup process.
- Cheaper than mold remediation but cost could stack up even higher when too many parties is involved.
- Temporary disable of piping and ventilation system, e.g. HVAC, main water tap until the specific task is completed.
- Inconsistent work quality and there is little to no synchronization between the contractors.
- Lack in-depth inspection thus there is a higher possibility that the mold problems would return again.
Mold expand rapidly and mercilessly. Always act quick when a mold spot is sighted in your home. Assuming high humidity environment is not the problem, the first step in getting rid of mold is to investigate what is the root cause. With the reason uncovered, you can start strategizing on a mold elimination plan. The first thing you can do is to scrub away any mold spot with detergent and water, follow by disposing any mold infested item that have absolutely no use. Another favorite source of mold infestation is plumbing/ water leaks that can be fix by yourself or with a plumber. Contaminated heating/ air duct/ HVAC system is a serious issue that should be fix immediately by a HVAC technician. For any unresolved mold troubles that is beyond your control, seek licensed contractor or professional service provider to inspect, clean up or remediation. Prevention is always the best measure and no exception with mold removal. Regular house cleaning is a good start, periodically schedule for or HVAC/ heating/ air condition maintenance to ensure there is no clogging. Poor ventilation is a simple yet common cause that can be easily rectified with opening window or turning on fan. UVGI is an excellent tool to destroy mold and other pathogens for good. Lastly, use an air purifier to stop mold from spreading and a dehumidifier to reduce the room humidity level.