What You Should NOT Do If You Find Mold in Your Home

Discovering mold in your home can be alarming, but knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what steps to take. Improper handling of mold can exacerbate the problem and pose health risks. Here's a guide on what you should avoid if you find mold in your home, brought to you by AVL Handyman LLC.

1. Don't Ignore the Problem

Ignoring mold will not make it go away. Mold can spread quickly and cause extensive damage to your property. It can also lead to serious health issues, especially for individuals with respiratory problems or weakened immune systems.

2. Don't Use Bleach Alone

While bleach can kill surface mold, it doesn't penetrate porous materials like wood or drywall. This means the mold can continue to grow beneath the surface. Using bleach can also release harmful fumes, making the environment more hazardous.

3. Don't Disturb Mold Without Proper Protection

Mold spores can become airborne when disturbed, spreading throughout your home. Never attempt to clean or remove mold without wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, masks, and eye protection.

4. Don't Overlook the Source of Moisture

Mold thrives in damp environments. If you only clean the mold without addressing the source of moisture, the problem will return. Identify and fix leaks, improve ventilation, and control humidity levels to prevent mold growth.

5. Don't Rely on DIY Methods for Large Infestations

For small patches of mold, DIY cleaning methods might be sufficient. However, for larger infestations, it's crucial to hire professionals. Mold remediation specialists have the expertise, equipment, and experience to safely and effectively remove mold.

6. Don't Neglect Health Precautions

Mold exposure can cause a range of health issues, including allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and skin irritation. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention and consider having your home professionally inspected for mold.

7. Don't Dispose of Contaminated Materials Improperly

Improper disposal of mold-infested materials can spread spores to other areas. Seal contaminated items in plastic bags before disposing of them to prevent cross-contamination.

8. Don't Skip the Post-Remediation Assessment

After mold removal, it's essential to conduct a post-remediation assessment to ensure that the mold levels are within acceptable limits. This step provides peace of mind that the remediation was successful.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can effectively manage mold problems and protect your home and health. For professional mold remediation services in Asheville, North Carolina, contact Achim Menges at AVL Handyman LLC. Visit [www.avl-handymanllc.com](http://www.avl-handymanllc.com) for more information or to schedule an assessment.