EPA Mold Remediation Guidelines

If you are dealing with a mold problem in your home, EPA mold remediation is necessary in order to completely get rid of the mold spores that are present. The process of home mold remediation is intensive, and it is important that you follow specific cleanup procedures. Failing to follow the proper protocol is a problem, and you want to make sure that you and your family are safe from the health dangers that can occur as a result of mold.

Keep in mind that there are different protocols depending on the type of mold and where it is located in your home. Certain steps need to be taken for each type of building material, so it is a good idea to consult with a mold specialist before moving forward with the mold cleanup.

What is EPA Mold Remediation?

“EPA mold remediation” is the guidelines that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has published in order to protect people from the dangers of mold exposure. Many people don’t realize how serious mold can be, and health problems can occur because they don’t follow a proper home mold remediation process.

Learning about the EPA’s guidelines for mold can help you to identify the supplies and techniques that are needed to effectively clean up the area and completely get rid of the mold. If you follow the steps as outlined, then the mold spores will be killed and you will be able to prevent future mold problems.

According to the EPA, you should not attempt a mold cleanup yourself if the mold covers more than 10 square feet, if the mold was caused by contaminated water, if the mold has gotten into the HVAC system, or if you have health issues that can be affected by additional exposure. You should hire a professional mold removal contractor.

The EPA mold remediation guidelines outline steps that need to be taken to clean up water damage, kill mold spores, sanitize all surfaces, prevent cross contamination, prevent health complications from mold exposure, and finishing up the job. Be sure to have a specific plan in place before you begin home mold remediation.

Do-It-Yourself vs. Professional Cleanup

Even though you may want to clean up the mold on your own to save money, it is important to be aware of each necessary step so that you can understand the time and equipment that is needed to safely and completely remove the mold. Don’t make the mistake of cleaning up the area without the right equipment, because it will most likely result in the mold spores moving to other areas in your home. Mold will return in the future and continue to spread if it is not cleaned up correctly.

Start out by bringing in a mold specialist who can do air and surface testing in order to determine how bad the problem is. This mold professional will already be familiar with the EPA mold remediation guidelines, and they will be able to advise you on the proper steps that need to be taken for your situation. Also, this professional will come back after the mold is cleaned, in order to verify that all the mold spores are gone.

If you are concerned about the home mold remediation steps, it may be a good idea to hire a contractor to complete the cleanup work for you. It is a good idea to hire an independent contractor so that you have one professional company testing and another cleaning. This way you have a professional verifying that the mold removal was done correctly and completely.

Hiring a professional mold removal company will cost some money, but remember that the money is well spent because you will be preventing future mold growth and protecting your family from health problems. Ignoring mold growth within your home can result in serious health implications, and it is not worth saving a few dollars if your family's health is in danger.

When the EPA Advises Consulting with a Mold Removal Specialist

If mold covers a surface area greater than 10 square feet.
If mold was caused by contaminated water (such as water that may contain sewage).
If mold has gotten into the HVAC system.
If you have health issues that can be affected by additional exposure (check with your physician if you have health concerns and aren’t sure if you can safely handle mold yourself or not).

Of course, you should consult a specialist any time you have questions about the best way to proceed with a mold cleanup task. Most mold removal specialists offer free consultations, so they will visit your home, assess the situation, and advise you at no cost to you. To find a list of local mold removal specialists offering free consultations, just fill out this easy referral form.

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