What are the risks of DIY mold removal?

DIY mold removal can often lead to the spread of mold spores, worsening the contamination. Without professional equipment and expertise, it's difficult to fully eliminate mold, especially when it has penetrated building materials.

When should I avoid DIY mold removal?

If mold can be detected on a single area in excess of 10 square feet, or if it has penetrated below the surface of building materials such as drywall or wooden structural members, it's best to contact a professional. Also, if residents are experiencing chronic physical symptoms that may be related to mold, professional remediation is recommended.

What methods do professional mold remediation services use?

Professionals use methods developed by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and have access to EPA-approved fungicides and disinfectants specifically formulated for particular types of mold.

What is the difference between DIY and professional mold removal?

DIY attempts at locating and identifying mold are often based on guesswork, while professionals use established standards and have the necessary training and expertise. Professionals also use specific products for different types of mold, while DIY methods typically rely on a spray bottle of bleach and water.

What services does Rytech Restoration provide for mold removal?

Rytech Restoration provides a complete mold inspection to identify any mold growth, eliminate existing contamination, and recommend solutions to prevent further growth.

Got Mold? 3 Things to Think About Before You Attempt a DIY Removal

Mold growth hidden behind baseboards around flooring

Mold remediation specialists are frequently asked about the pluses and minuses of DIY vs professional mold removal services. We have to be honest, so the answer is: there are very few pluses associated with do-it-yourself attempts at mold removal and a whole lot of potential minuses. Certainly, for a superficial, one-time appearance of mold on a hard household surface, wiping it away with disinfectant will probably do the trick. But where serious toxic mold has gained a foothold inside a house, releasing reproductive spores into the indoor environment, the alternatives available to the average amateur are not sufficient to counteract the contamination and achieve permanent control. In fact, DIY mold removal methods may actually make the contamination more widespread.

Qualified mold removal services use methods developed by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) that does the research and establishes standards for the mold remediation industry. DIY attempts at locating and identifying mold are often based on folklore or, worse, just guesswork. Professionals also have access to EPA-approved fungicides and disinfectants specifically formulated for particular types of mold—do-it-yourselfers typically rely on a spray bottle of bleach and water.

When Not To Do It Yourself

Any mold that can be detected on a single area in excess of 10 square feet is a job for a professional only. Where mold has grown to that extent or larger, amateur methods and homemade products aren't sufficient.
When mold growth has penetrated below the surface of building materials such as drywall, wooden structural members like studs or joists or plywood sub-flooring, get an inspection by a mold remediation specialist with the necessary training and expertise.
If residents of the home are experiencing chronic physical symptoms such as allergy-like respiratory reactions that have no other explanation, definitely see your doctor first. Also, talk to a mold remediation specialist about an inspection including air sampling to detect the type and concentration of mold spores that may be infecting your living spaces.

When DIY vs professional mold removal is the question, the answer is qualified mold remediation by the trained specialists at Rytech Restoration.

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