As many of us are already aware, mold is a fungus that grows naturally in the environment and feeds off of organic substances such as trees, moss, and decomposing organisms. Unfortunately, your building materials also serve as a perfect host to give this unwelcome guest a home. Among these include wood, drywall, cement, particleboard, and other porous surfaces. While mold can be removed from some areas more easily than others, the problem can become a hassle, making it difficult to be removed in a cost-effective manner. One of these areas includes your carpet.
Why is Mold Growing on My Carpet?
Mold has the ability to grow on any surface within your property, as long as there is enough moisture present. In addition, other nutrients, optimal temperature, and light can promote its development.
The reason your carpet can provide the perfect home for these spores is because it retains dust and moisture that provide extra nutrients for the fungus to feed on.
What are the Dangers of Mold?
As mold is commonly known for triggering allergies, it can be even more deadly, depending on the species. But in most cases, it can trigger breathing problems, itchy eyes, watery eyes, sneezing, red eyes, and skin rashes, among other allergic reactions.
It can also be harmful to those with asthma as the spores can irritate the lungs and close up air ways. While these symptoms are most common among those with severe allergies, they can still occur to those who do not usually experience reactions.
While these symptoms can be a first sign of noticing mold in your home or building, they can occur right away or be delayed, depending on the type of mold and how far it has spread. But no matter when it is noticed, it is important to locate the source and remove it right away.
How do I Identify the Source of the Mold?
The first step towards removing the mold is finding the source. This is the area where the spores will be generated that will affect new areas in the future. It also contains the highest concentration of spores that are the most dangerous for humans and animals.
It is also important to make sure that the source of moisture is cut off. To do this, increase the air flow throughout the property by turning on an overhead fan, HVAC system, or air conditioning unit. But just avoid putting a fan directly in front of the mold as it will only irritate and cause it to spread further.
After identifying the mold, inspect the condition of the carpet. If there is an infestation, it must be removed right away. It can be thrown away with all other household trash as it is not a hazardous material. Just make sure to keep it contained within a plastic or garbage bag to not harm the garbage workers when they deliver it to the landfill.
However, if you have caught the mold in its early stages, it can be removed with a special cleaning technique.
How Can I Remove Mold from the Carpet Myself?
As long as the mold has only affected a small area of the carpet, it is possible to have it removed without discarding the entire furnishing. To do this, you will need to apply a detergent, water, and steam cleaning machine to remove it yourself. If you find that the detergent is not enough to eliminate the spores, you can use a stronger agent; however, you will want to test this on a small area rug to ensure it will not harm the carpet itself. Give it about 24 hours to make sure there is no damage caused by the stronger cleaner.
Also keep in mind that it is very important that the carpet is thoroughly dried after the cleaning in order to prevent the spores from returning.
You may also want to consider the option of removing the affected section of the carpet instead of cleaning it. This will not only prevent the mold from spreading further, but it will completely remove the fungus without having to worry about using a cleaning technique that may not work. On the other hand, it can be difficult to find the same kind of carpet and color to replace the soiled patch before it.
Will a Professional Carpet Cleaning Remove the Mold?
This will ultimately depend on the type of mold and how far it has spread. While some carpets can be rid of mold using advanced equipment and products involved in professional carpet cleaning, others cannot as the mold has spread too far and its presence is too strong to be removed with any chemical.
If you do decide to hire a carpet cleaning service, be sure to have the area dried as soon as possible. Any moisture left in the carpet can allow for the regrowth. In addition, any padding that has been affected by mold underneath the carpet must be removed as it cannot be cleaned with any solution or equipment.
How do I Remove Mold from Other Surfaces?
For all other building materials containing mold, they must be cleaned professionally. Make sure to contact an experienced, licensed mold remediation specialist that will remove all cases effectively. In addition to removing the source, it is important to make sure that it will not return in the future. Finally, have them inspect the HVAC system because the spores are able to travel through the ducts to affect new areas.
If you decide to replace any of the affected materials, you will still want to consult with a mold removal specialist to avoid any negative health effects and ensure it has not affected the HVAC system or any other area of your property. While most providers offer free consultations, it never hurts to have them do an inspection.
How Can I Prevent Mold in the Future?
As everyone who has discovered it on their property, mold is never fun to remove. As there are a number of risks and hazards associated with it, it can also be difficult and costly to remove the longer it is left to spread. However, there are steps you can take to prevent this headache altogether.
As mold requires water in order to thrive, it is important to make sure that the moisture level on the property is kept at a low level. If you also have any water damage caused by a leak, flood, or sewer backup, call a water damage restoration professional to have it removed right away. You can also check out this blog for additional steps towards preventing mold growth on your property.
Seeking Out a Professional
In the event that you are searching for a company that provides carpet cleaning, water damage restoration, or type of service, a licensed cleaning and restoration professional is the way to go. Although the services will vary on each provider, the right vendor will be trained, experienced and have the best reviews.
