When you find a patch of mold in your home, particularly a small one, it can be tempting to try to remove it yourself to save money. In the long run though, it will only cost you more, both financially and mentally.
Having mold is stressful and embarrassing, and even though acting fast is important, homeowners make a lot of mistakes when it comes to mold removal. Here’s why you should avoid attempting to remove mold yourself.
Bleach is Ineffective
There’s a lot of myths surrounding mold and mold removal. The biggest one by far, however, is the idea that bleach can get rid of mold. This is because bleach gives the appearance having gotten rid of the mold, but the roots remain and can still spread and cause mold exposure symptoms as well as damage your home’s structure.
Mold Resistant Paint is a Sham
Another common myth about mold removal and prevention is “mold resistant” paint. It is marketed as having antibacterial properties that kill mold and prevent future mold growth, but it doesn’t do either of these things. It can actually worsen your problem because painting over the mold gives it time to grow unchecked, since you’ve been lulled into a false sense of security.
Disturbing the Mold Can Spread It
When you touch or scrub at mold, you can release mold spores into the air and actually exacerbate the problem, allowing the mold to spread to other parts of the home. Furthermore, disrupting the mold can lead to the inhalation of mold spores, since you’re right there scrubbing at it.
You Can Get Sick
Breathing in mold spores can cause mold illness, a serious issue that exhibits allergy-like symptoms. Worse still mold exposure can lead to fungal infections, such as chronic sinusitis. This happens because mold loves moist dark places, so it loves sinus cavities. Don’t let the mold growth spread to your own body! Instead, call a professional.
Even Your Pets Can Get Sick
You may think you’re the only one being affected by your mold problem, but in fact, your pets can get sick from mold exposure, just like you. That makes taking mold removal into your own hands just that much riskier. If you end up making the problem worse by acting rashly, then your pets may ultimately suffer for it.
You’re Not a Certified Professional
Despite all your Google searches, you are not a certified mold remediation specialist. So please don’t try to do a job that takes months of training and expensive equipment to do. Certified professionals exist for a reason and they know much better than you how to safely and effectively remove mold.
Schedule a free mold inspection today to determine the extent of your mold issue as well as the cost for remediation. It’s the safest, smartest plan of action.
