If you have noticed that your house has been infested with mould and mildew, you may be wondering how to remove it. It may seem overwhelming, but there are several methods you can use to get rid of mould and mildew. Here are some tips:
First, isolate the affected area. Use a plastic sheeting or mould-proof tape to cover the area. Dry the object as much as possible. If it cannot be dried, you should keep it in its container. When possible, keep the contaminated collection area sealed in plastic sheeting. Make sure to follow all guidelines for proper storage of objects and containers. If you have a limited budget, hire a professional mould-removal company.
Alternatively, use specialized equipment called spore traps. These devices collect mould spores and other materials from the air and deposit them on a sticky surface. These are then inspected under a microscope to determine which species are present. In some cases, a mycologist will be required to identify the type of mould. The report should indicate if there are any species that can cause a health hazard. If not, further sampling may be required to determine the species, including whether they are toxic.
The presence of dirt and dust is an ideal breeding ground for mould. These two substances provide nutrients to mould, which can increase the likelihood of it growing. The size of airborne mould spores also influences how easily they settle out of the air. On average, they fall out of the air at a rate of 0.5 to 2 cm per second, making them part of dirt and dust. As shown in Figure 7, mould can live in dirt or dust and may be able to thrive in these materials.
If mould is present in the home, you should consider how you can remove it safely. Infections from mould are caused by the fungi that live on it. As with any other type of contamination, a mould problem is a health hazard, especially when it is visible. The presence of large areas in a home will exacerbate the effects of exposure. Those with sensitive skin may be at risk for severe asthma attacks. If you are not sure how to deal with this problem, consult a qualified professional who can help you remove the mould and other fungi that live on it.
Whether the mould is on a wall, ceiling, or surface, the first step is to lower the RH and increase the air circulation. However, since mould spores are airborne, you must be careful to prevent the spores from dispersing. It is also best to seal any return air vent and open windows to allow air to escape outside the home. To ensure the most effective cleaning, you should isolate a room from other parts of the house and avoid clutter. Using fans or air to dry objects can also be effective, but you should ensure that the fan is pointed away from these objects.