Bleach
Just Doesn’t Stop Mold Growth
Chlorine bleach is often regarded as the answer
for removing and halting mold growth. It is usually the first thing many reach
for when cleaning a mold contaminated area. While bleach may be effective in
certain applications, it will not exonerate mold on a porous surface. Bleach
can actually contribute negatively to certain mold problems.
The effectiveness of chlorine bleach can erode
over time. Chlorine properties can
evaporate over time especially when in contact with water. It may have been sitting at the store or in
your home for some time, diminishing the ability to perform. Mold contaminants sometimes mutate, and what
worked yesterday may not work today.
Therefore, industrial grade products will not only eradicate the growth
of mold but prevent it from returning.
Chlorine bleach can only kill surface mold. Because mold can grow roots within porous
surfaces such as wood and drywall, bleach will not assist you in exterminating
mold. The chlorine cannot penetrate to destroy the growth at its roots; it
remains on the surface while the water component of the bleach reaches further,
which can actually feed the mold growth.
Chlorine bleach produces fumes that
pollute the air and can become harmful to humans and pets. Chlorine bleach also
generates a by-product called dioxin, which is linked to cancer. Use over time
builds up these pollutants in the environment, which can drastically alter
normal environmental comforts in your home or office space, thus putting you,
your family and any pets in the facility at risk. Mold removal is a serious task and should be
done with proper protocol and procedure.
If you have ascertained that it is safe to
clean up the mold, there are a variety of options available. The most important
step is to determine the cause of the moisture and make any necessary changes
to assure that mold will not return and the area is properly ventilated. Some
issues will need to be resolved by cutting out the moldy material and
completely replacing it. This will make certain that the mold roots are removed
and will not return. This is where a
professional mold removal company is best.
The mold remediation specialist is trained at how to properly get rid of
mold, mold spores, and its contaminants.
More specific biocides may be needed if you are dealing with a porous
surface that you cannot remove, such as wood framing.
Proper treatment for mold growth will depend on
the surface it has populated. Always
consult a professional mold remediation company before attempting to remediate
a mold problem yourself. If you don’t
have experience with mold remediation the EPA recommends that any mold problem
larger than 10 square feet be examined by an expert.
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