Why DIY Mold Removal Isn’t Enough: When Oklahoma City Residents Should Call Professionals

11/20/2024 (Permalink)

Demolition after water loss in home

If you’ve discovered mold in your Oklahoma City home, it’s natural to want to tackle the problem yourself. DIY mold removal tips are all over the internet, with advice ranging from scrubbing with bleach to using home remedies like vinegar and baking soda. But, when it comes to mold, a quick DIY fix may not be the safest or most effective approach. In fact, it could even make things worse. Here’s why DIY mold removal isn’t enough and when to call in professionals like SERVPRO of Norman.

1. Hidden Mold: It’s Not Just What You See

Mold is notorious for spreading beyond the visible surface. While you might see mold on a wall, what you can’t see could be just as harmful, if not more so. Mold spores can travel through the air and settle in hard-to-reach places like behind drywall, beneath flooring, or in HVAC systems. DIY methods usually address only the surface-level mold, leaving hidden mold untouched, which allows the problem to grow out of sight.

Professional Advantage: A SERVPRO® team has the tools and expertise to conduct a thorough inspection. Our professionals use advanced technology to detect hidden moisture and ensure that every affected area is addressed.

2. Bleach and Other Household Cleaners Don’t Fully Eradicate Mold

Many people believe that bleach or vinegar will “kill” mold. While bleach can remove surface stains, it doesn’t penetrate porous materials like drywall or wood, which means mold can continue growing below the surface. Worse yet, attempting to clean mold with bleach can actually release more spores into the air, spreading the contamination.

Professional Advantage: SERVPRO uses EPA-approved antimicrobial treatments specifically designed for mold remediation. These products can effectively address both surface mold and underlying growth, ensuring a more thorough and lasting solution.

3. Mold Can Spread Quickly During DIY Attempts

When you scrub or disturb mold with a brush or cloth, you release mold spores into the air. These spores are incredibly small and easily spread, moving from room to room via air currents or ventilation systems.

Professional Advantage: SERVPRO’s team follows strict containment protocols to prevent mold from spreading. With specialized equipment like air scrubbers and HEPA filters, we can capture airborne spores and contain the spread of mold to safeguard your home.

4. Proper Moisture Control: Prevention Is Key

Even if you manage to remove visible mold, it’s unlikely to stay gone if you haven’t addressed the underlying moisture issue. Mold thrives in damp conditions, so any unresolved leaks, humidity, or water damage can cause mold to return. A professional will not only remove the mold but will also help pinpoint and address moisture sources to prevent future growth.

Professional Advantage: SERVPRO technicians are trained to identify and mitigate the source of moisture. We can recommend solutions to manage humidity levels or repair water damage, creating an environment where mold is less likely to return.

When to Call the Professionals at SERVPRO

While small mold patches can sometimes be safely cleaned by homeowners, larger infestations or recurring mold should always be handled by professionals. Here are some signs that it’s time to call in SERVPRO:

• The mold covers an area larger than 10 square feet
• You suspect mold in hidden areas or behind walls
• You’ve tried DIY cleaning, but the mold keeps coming back
• You notice musty odors, which may indicate hidden mold growth

Why Choose SERVPRO for Mold Remediation?

At SERVPRO, we’re committed to providing thorough and effective mold mitigation services for Oklahoma City residents. Our experienced team follows IICRC standards for mold remediation, ensuring that your home is not only mold-free but also safe from future growth. From initial inspection to final cleanup, we handle every aspect of the process, so you don’t have to worry about lingering mold.

If you’re dealing with a mold problem in Oklahoma City, give SERVPRO® of Norman a call. Our professionals have the experience, equipment, and knowledge to effectively and safely restore your home, providing you with peace of mind.

When it comes to mold, trust the experts to do it right the first time. SERVPRO is here to help—24/7.