Recovering From a Mold Infestation: The Cleanout
3/4/2019 (Permalink)
Mold Cleaning
Mold cleaning is an intensive job that requires patience and caution. However, beyond caution, the cleanout process can be devastating for homeowners because many sentimental items may be lost to the infestation. While it is true that some things are not salvageable for health reason, not all is lost. The extent of loss is mainly dependent on the material type and the scope of the damage.
1. Removing and Discarding Porous Items
Most likely, porous items will succumb to mold damage. While it is true that specialized cleaners exist, many fabrics are never completely clean, and many other items cannot sustain the rigorous cleaning required to salvage the items, making it more cost effective to discard the materials.
2. Salvaging Non-Porous and Sentimental Items
Mold cleaning is possible with non-porous items, though it requires special chemicals – some of which may depend on the mold species. In addition to cleaning non-porous items, sentimental items may be saved by contracting services and cleaners who are experts in mold remediation. That being said, experts in item repair and salvage may be costly.
3. Sterilizing Your Home
Once all the materials and items in the affected area have been sorted through, you will need to sterilize your home with powerful cleaners. While it is possible to clean your house on your own, depending on the mold species, it may be better to hire a professional service.
4. Rebuilding After the Cleanout
A mold remediation specialist in the Belton, MO, area will likely need to remove drywall and insulation to ensure that your home is free of mold, which means that you may require restoration work to make your home livable again. Thankfully, many remediation experts are part of larger restoration companies.
Mold cleaning is highly involved, and you will likely have to discard items that are sentimental. The cleanup process may have your home looking worse before it gets better. However, while it can be devastating, once restored, you will have peace of mind.