Some mold removal companies claim it is the end of the world when you find mold in your home.
We at Crawl Pros believe that is far from the truth, but we agree it is wise to seek out a mold specialist because mold is serious and can have implications on your health.
Some mold removal companies make their money using myths and scare tactics about mold. They do this to persuade you to use their expensive services to remove the mold.
We at Crawl Pros, however, believe mold can be dealt with in a safe and environmentally sound manner.
This article is intended to share the five main myths these mold removal companies use and how you can be sure you are dealing with a reputable mold removal specialist.
Myth #1 – Mold Must be Tested and Identified Before Removal
This is not true because although testing can provide a reading of the quantity and type of mold that is present, all types of mold need to be removed!
There are more than 100,00 types of mold and there are no health-based safety standards for mold levels.
Common household molds such as Alternaria appears in damp areas like a shower, sink, or dark and dimly lit areas outside the home. This type of mold causes asthma attacks and allergic reactions when this mold is present in your home.
Chaetomium mold is found in drywall that has experienced water damage. This type of mold can be identified when a musty or old odor is identified in the home.
Penicillium is a mold that can found indoors inside insulation, furnishings, water damaged furniture, carpeting and more. Penicillium can spread quickly throughout the home and can cause homeowners to have sinus infections, lung inflammation, as well as allergic reactions.
Black mold or stachysbotrys chartarum is also often called toxic mold. This is due to the fact that this type of mold creates toxic compounds known as mycotoxins. The compounds cause those that breathe the mold in to develop breathing issues, sinus infections, depression, fatigue, asthma attacks and more. This type of mold can be identified by its musty smell and is found in areas that stay damp, like air conditioning pipes and ducts.
Although there are many thousands of mold types, testing does not provide valuable information. Testing is inaccurate and can add extra expense to your mold removal process.
Myth #2 – Only Black Mold is Toxic
It’s not just black mold that may be toxic. Any color mold can, given the right conditions, produce toxins (specifically mycotoxins) or a group of mold called Stachybotrys. Again, there are over 100,000 different strains of mold so it is highly likely mold in your home is toxic.
It is imperative, however, that you consider a mold removal pro before you consider mold removal at home. Mold removal companies such as Crawl Pros are experts at ensuring mold in your home is fully removed without the danger of it spreading to other areas of your home.
Myth #3 – Bleach Will Kill All Mold
Bleach can kill mold, but it does not do the job necessary to remove all mold. Bleach is also hard on your lungs and is extremely, if not impossible, to apply in tight fitting areas such as your attic or crawl space.
There are also other mold removal sprays and mold removal cleaners on the market, but in most cases they do not completely remove all of the mold and can be as dangerous and toxic as the mold itself.
Myth #4 – There is No Mold Odor in My House, So I don’t Have a Mold Issue
Although mold odor is a major indicator of the presence of mold, there may not be any odor. If you suspect mold in your home it is best call a professional mold removal company.
Indicators that you may have mold in your home include:
Physical Indicators- You notice black, clustered growths, especially in warm, moist rooms- You notice areas of your home where there is a leak, lack of ventilation, or old food, papers, or wood- Mold build up in areas, such as in your bathroom, with inadequate ventilation
Health Indicators- You notice increased allergy conditions including sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash- You fill constantly sick with flu symptoms, coughing, diarrhea or sinus infection- You notice joint swelling or cramps- You experience shortness of breath
If you believe you have mold in your home it is recommended you hire a professional to help you identify and remove black mold. This is especially true if you are severely allergic or vulnerable to mold.
Myth #5 – All Mold Removal Companies Are the Same
Not all mold removal companies are the same. When it comes to mold you need to be sure you are dealing with professionals who are trained and have the best technology to remove the mold. You want a contractor who understands the concepts of mold remediation and can provide the best price and highest quality result.
You can count on Crawl Pros for your mold removal needs. Crawl Pros will provide a thorough evaluation of the severity of mold issue and provide free, no obligation estimate of the mold removal cost.
We invite you to call Crawl Pros today at 866-673-9626 to learn how we can help identify the mold, remediate the mold and provide helpful tips to prevent future mold infestations.