3 Tips For Preparing For A DIY Removal Of Mold From Your Crawl Space
While mold anywhere in your home is never a good thing, its presence in your crawl space can be even more problematic. That is often due to the lack of insulation commonly found in crawl spaces and the exposure of the area to warmth, moisture and heat...all of which present as an ideal environment for mold. As a result, you need to be aware of the following advice for perparing for the mold removal.
#1-Remember That Mold Has The Very Real Potential To Make You Sick
It is important to remember that mold spores are tiny and can linger in the air or adhere to welcoming surfaces. Unfortunately, when spores are present in a crawl space with limited ventilation, there is a good chance that you could accidentally inhale one or more of those spores. Inhaled mold spores can result in serious lung infections, breathing problems and other health challenges.
That means that it is very important to provide as much ventilation as you can to your crawl space and to wear appropriate protective clothing for the duration of your mold removal, as explained below.
#2-Protect Yourself And The Area
In order to combat the issue of adequate ventilation within the crawl space, it is often helpful to use fans of different sizes to force the spores outward. While you can do so immediately prior to starting the work, it is frequently recommended to get any of the stagnant, contaminated air moving a few hours prior to going in the area.
You will also need to wear an intact haz-mat suit with an attached hat, booties and gloves. Every inch of your body needs to be fully covered and an appropriate breathing mask is a crucial aspect of the uniform. If a rip, tear or other type of damage occurs to your clothing while you are in the crawl space, you should evacuate the area as soon as possible and then not return until safely ensconced in another suit.
#3-Provide Adequate Lighting To The Crawl Space and Allow The Mold Spores A Safe Place To Land
Given that you obviously want the mold to detach from the walls and internal components inside the crawl space, placing a large and sturdy piece of plastic over the ground is likely to make your job much easier. Since even a small amount of mold in the area could allow the problem to quickly occur again, you should also plan to provide as much lighting as you can. Flashlights, floodlights and any other portable source of light can help to illuminate the corners of the affected space.
In conclusion, when mold has developed in the crawl space of your home, it is crucial to remove it entirely as soon as possible. Therefore, it is a good idea to consider the information provided above and contact a mold remediation contractor.