Mould in your home goes beyond just a pesky stain or smell. With large variations in temperature, snow, ice, plumbing issues, basement dampness, condensation, and poor ventilation, Calgary is home to a myriad of possible causes for home mould growth. Mould growing around windows, bathrooms, basement, ceiling, drywall, and other damp places in your home can be dangerous and should not be ignored as it spreads and affects the wellbeing of your family.
The best way to get rid of mould in Calgary is to not only deal with what can be seen, but also to find where the moisture was coming from, which encouraged it to grow.
What Causes Mould in Calgary?
Mould will grow on surfaces where there are high levels of moisture. Possible sources for this are plumbing leaks, roof leaks, water, condensation around windows, humidity levels, foundation dampness, and poor bathroom or basement ventilation.
Calgary’s climate can also encourage mould growth on the foundation of a home due to snow and ice buildup, and on cold areas like windows due to high levels of indoor condensation. Health Canada recommends indoor humidity levels be kept between 30 and 50% and that any moisture problems be dealt with immediately.
How to Get Rid of Mould in Your Home?
The first step in removing mould is finding the source of the moisture that encouraged it to grow.
This can be plumbing leaks, moisture in drywall, condensation, water stains, wet carpet, faulty seals, or another cause. In the case of a small amount of mould growth with a clearly defined source on a non-porous surface that can be cleaned, homeowners can get rid of the minor infestation themselves, with caution. Health Canada recommends that homeowners do not use bleach to remove small amounts of mould.
Mould that occurs on drywall, insulation, carpet, or other porous materials is much harder to get rid of due to the mould being underneath the surface and needing the material replaced. Painting over mould growth is not an advised solution as it does not eliminate the source of the moisture, and recurring mould means the source has not been properly addressed.
When Should You Call a Professional Mould Removal Company?
Although some small infestations can be dealt with by homeowners, there are many instances in which a professional mould removal company is needed. The size of the infestation and how obvious the source of moisture is are two of the main factors to consider when deciding if a professional mould remediation company should be contacted.
According to Health Canada, any infestation larger than 3 square metres should be dealt with by a professional mould removal company. Additionally, recurrent mould should also be dealt with by professionals even if the source of moisture can be addressed as mould that recurs is dangerous and its presence should be eliminated. It is also advisable to call a professional mould removal company if the source of the infestation is not obvious, or if there is moisture behind walls or other places where the visible mould has already been removed.
This is especially true if there has been a large amount of water or moisture in the area, such as in the case of basement flooding, plumbing issues, roof leaks, or another large-scale moisture problem. Mould remediation and restoration companies can also help in cases where there has been significant water damage with moisture lingering long after the water has been removed.
Mould Removal and Moisture Control Go Together
A competent mold remediation and restoration company will be able to deal with both the issue of the mould and the source of the moisture that caused it.
This can involve:
- Finding the source of the moisture
- Assessing the damage
- Removing contaminated drywall, carpet, or other materials
- Surface cleaning
- Drying
- Improving ventilation
- Humidity control measures
- The use of containment and protective measures
- A post-remediation inspection to ensure the job was done right
Health Canada notes that it is possible for mould to begin growing within hours of water damage or another source of moisture. As such, any water damage or leaking problems should be dealt with immediately so that mould does not have a chance to grow in the first place.
Why Choose HazPro Restoration for Mould Removal in Calgary?
Large-scale infestations, recurring mould, and moisture or water damage that leads to mould growth need to be dealt with much more seriously than a simple do-it-yourself job of removing a minor infestation. HazPro Restoration offers professional assistance to Calgary residents dealing with these issues.
We can help determine the source of the infestation and the steps needed to not only get rid of the mould but to ensure it does not return.
Whether the owner is dealing with a minor or recurring infestation, HazPro Restoration can advise them on the best way to deal with the problem, including what steps can be taken themselves, what needs to be addressed by a professional, and what should be done to ensure the issue does not occur again.
If you have seen signs of water damage or noticed signs of mould in your Calgary home, it is important not to hesitate in getting rid of it. Contact HazPro Restoration and ask about our professional mould removal and moisture management services.
Also Read: Mold Testing in Airdrie
Frequently Asked Questions About Mould Removal
What removes mould permanently?
Unfortunately there is nothing that can truly remove mould completely from surfaces. The most crucial step in dealing with mould is dealing with the source of its growth. Leaving a leak, humidity problem, condensation, or poor ventilation will encourage new mould growth. For larger infestations professional help can advise on the best way to get rid of the mould and prevent its return. HazPro Restoration can inspect the issue and recommend the best course of action, including any steps for dealing with moisture issues that may be present.
How do I remove mould myself?
A small patch of surface mould can be dealt with using soap and water, along with the proper safety precautions.
According to Health Canada, this includes wearing eye protection, gloves, and a disposable N95 mask while removing the mould.
DIY mould removal is not recommended for large infestations, on porous surfaces, for hidden mould, or for recurring mould. In these cases a professional mould remediation contractor can offer a safer, more effective solution.
What kills mould completely?
Removing mould completely requires more than simply killing it on the surface. It is often necessary to remove the affected materials to ensure that all traces of it are gone. It is crucial to remember that the source of the moisture that encourages mould growth must also be addressed.
If the mould recurs even after being killed it is an indication it has not been successfully removed. HazPro Restoration can help determine why the mould is appearing and advise on the best way to get rid of it for good.
What are the 10 warning signs of mould toxicity?
The idea of toxic mould is a common one online, but every person will have a different experience with mould toxicity and the effects it has on their body. Health Canada highlights several possible symptoms of indoor mould exposure that can be dangerous and should be addressed.
These are eye, nose, and throat irritation, coughing, excessive phlegm, wheezing, shortness of breath, and increased asthma symptoms.
10 possible symptoms of mould toxicity are:
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Nasal congestion, or a runny nose
- Eye irritation or water eyes
- Sore/itchy throat
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Increased asthma symptoms
- Allergy-type symptoms
- An unpleasant smell in the area or irritation upon entering the area
The list is not exhaustive, and any of these symptoms can be caused by a number of different factors. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms it is best to speak with a medical professional. At the very least, removing mould and reducing dampness in your home is an important step in eliminating a potential cause for these symptoms. If you are suffering from the effects of a mould infestation or moisture problem in your Calgary home HazPro Restoration is here to help.
Get Professional Mould Removal Help in Calgary
Mould in your home should never be ignored. When it is spreading, recurring after being removed, or occurring alongside water damage, it should be professionally dealt with as soon as possible. HazPro Restoration can help Calgary homeowners with the next step in remediation and restoration.
If you are dealing with a mould infestation or moisture issue in your home do not hesitate to contact HazPro Restoration for professional assistance in getting rid of it.