As soon as you see a trace of black mold, it’s easy to go into panic mode.
After all, just seeing a slight hint of it means that it is likely that there is a lot more lurking in areas that you can’t see. Black Mold removal is vital to minimize damage and restore your home, office or school.
We’ll give you an inside look of what we do when we’re called into action to remove black mold.
But first, let’s answer a question we get a lot: “Why can’t I just remove black mold myself?”
Can I Remove Black Mold Myself?
We know you’ve considered it. Removing black mold seems deceptively simple, doesn’t it? A simple Google search will reveal all kinds of “how to” instructions and informational videos.
But for the sake of your health and the safety of your home—don’t do it.
Here are 4 reasons why:
1. You could cause it to spread.
If you don’t use the proper containment methods, you could cause the microscopic mold spores to spread. If they happen to get into your HVAC unit or ventilation system, then you’ve unintentionally spread black mold around the area.
2. You could overlook areas.
Mold is notoriously good at hiding. It can easily find its way into the folds of vents or other areas. When you don’t know these areas, it’s easy to overlook any additional mold growth that can’t be seen.
3. You could damage your health.
It’s no secret that black mold causes a multitude of health problems, including respiratory infections and allergies. In addition, it also can make asthma worse.
If you don’t have the proper protective equipment, not only are you dislodging mold spores and sending them around the room, but you’re also inhaling them—inviting these tiny invaders into your body.
4. You don’t have the proper equipment
Just wiping the area with bleach does not get rid of the mold. And if you don’t have the proper equipment, not only will you not be able to completely eliminate the mold, but you won’t be able to protect yourself from any airborne spores.
How We Complete Black Mold Removal
There are several steps involved in removing black mold, and we’ll take you through them so you’ll have an idea of what to expect when you contact First Call.
Step One: Eliminate the Source
It may surprise you to learn that the first step in black mold removal does not involve starting the actual removal process. It centers around eliminating the moisture that is at the heart of the problem.
If you don’t eliminate the source of moisture, then once you remove mold, it will merely return.
Step Two: Prepare the Area
Once the source of the moisture has been identified and treated, we will access the mold area. If it is not easily accessible via a crawlspace, then we’ll lay plastic sheeting down and run hoses from the area to the doorway.
We also stage the area using negative air pressure. This means we’ll seal it off so contaminants from one part of the house won’t make their way into another area.
Step Three: Spray for the Mold
You’ll see our employees suited up in complete hazmat gear. So don’t be surprised if you see us in white suits complete with boots, respirators and goggles. We take safety very seriously, and we understand the need for specialized equipment. This is also one of the reasons why we do NOT suggest removing black mold on your own.
We will spray the area with an EPA-approved mold killer (called a biocide).
Step Four: Clean the Air
We even scrub the air using a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) scrubber. We set this up as an air exchange that will enable us to replace the moldy air with fresh, clean air.
Step Five: Vacuum to Remove Any Remaining Spores
We have specialized HEPA vacuums that we use to ensure that any “stubborn” spores are removed from your home.
Step Six: Proper Disposal of Materials
Even when the project is over, our job isn’t done. Moldy, contaminated products — particularly materials such as drywall and insulation – must be properly disposed of if they are beyond being salvaged.
We dispose of everything in compliance with federal, state and local regulations.
Step Seven: Post-removal Inspection
Any company can claim they’ve removed all your mold, but we provide a detailed follow-up when we’re completed to ensure nothing has been overlooked. This is an integral part of our process because it reflects our dedication to our clients, whether they are residential homeowners, large corporations or universities.
Who to Call for Black Mold Removal? First Call Is the Right Call
Of course, black mold is only one part of your headache.
The other centers around documentation and talking to insurance companies.
First Call can take care of both of these issues.
Not only are we experts in black mold removal near you, but we also work closely with your home insurance company to provide the extensive documentation needed. This not only streamlines the process, but it also saves you a lot of time and inconvenience.
For decades, First Call has been the right call for those in the Raleigh, Triangle, Greensboro and Burlington areas.
The key to successfully removing black mold is to contact us as soon as it is discovered. Make the right call with First Call today. Contact us.