Can I Remove Mold Myself or Should I Call a Pro?

The short answer

When DIY Mold Cleanup Is Possible

You may handle a small mold patch yourself if it is confined to a non-porous surface like tile or glass. The affected area should be no larger than about three feet by three feet. Wear an N95 mask, goggles, and gloves to protect yourself during cleaning. Use a detergent and water solution, then dry the area completely to prevent regrowth.

Ensure the space is well-ventilated during and after your cleaning. Check for the source of moisture that caused the mold and fix it immediately. If the mold returns quickly after your cleaning efforts, the problem is likely deeper. In that case, you should consider consulting a mold professional to assess the situation.

Signs You Need a Mold Professional

Call a mold professional if you see mold covering a large area or if it is in your HVAC system. Extensive mold behind walls or under floors also requires expert assessment and removal. A persistent musty odor often indicates hidden mold growth that needs specialized equipment to locate. Health symptoms like worsened allergies or respiratory issues are a clear sign to stop DIY efforts.

Mold professionals have the tools to contain spores and prevent them from spreading to other parts of your home. They can also perform tests to identify the specific type of mold present. This information helps determine the correct removal and cleaning protocol for your situation. Their work ensures the mold is addressed at its source, not just on the surface.

Health Risks of Handling Mold

Exposure to mold spores can cause allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and other respiratory problems. Some individuals are more sensitive and may experience symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or skin irritation. Disturbing mold during cleaning can release a large number of spores into your indoor air. This increases your exposure and can make existing health conditions worse.

If you feel unwell during or after cleaning mold, you should see a doctor. Protect yourself by using proper personal protective equipment, but understand its limitations. For significant mold problems, the health risks of improper handling outweigh the potential cost savings of a DIY approach. A professional's containment procedures are designed to protect your household's health.

Wear an N95 respirator mask, not a dust mask.
Use gloves that extend to your mid-forearm.
Wear goggles without ventilation holes to protect your eyes.
Dispose of cleaning materials in sealed plastic bags.
Shower and wash your clothes immediately after cleaning.
Never mix bleach with ammonia or other household cleaners.

Dealing with Mold in Porous Materials

Mold growing on porous materials like drywall, insulation, or carpet padding usually cannot be cleaned. The roots, called hyphae, grow deep into the material where cleaning solutions cannot reach. In these cases, the contaminated material must be carefully removed and discarded. Attempting to clean it will likely leave mold behind, leading to rapid regrowth.

This removal process can be messy and risks spreading spores if not contained. Local water damage pros or a mold professional have equipment like HEPA air scrubbers to maintain air quality. They follow industry standards for removing and bagging contaminated materials. In humid climates, porous materials are especially prone to mold, so proper removal is key.

Connections to Water Damage

Mold is almost always a symptom of a past or ongoing moisture problem. You cannot solve a mold issue without first finding and fixing the source of water. Common sources include plumbing leaks, roof leaks, foundation seepage, or high indoor humidity. A water damage inspection can help identify hidden moisture that is feeding mold growth behind walls or under floors.

Addressing the water problem is the first and most critical step. Once the area is dry, mold remediation can begin effectively. Related services like drywall repair or flooring removal often go hand-in-hand with mold cleanup. Ignoring the water source means any mold removal, professional or DIY, will only provide a temporary solution.

Frequently asked questions

What does a mold professional do that I cannot?

A mold professional uses specialized equipment like moisture meters and HEPA air scrubbers. They safely contain the work area to prevent cross-contamination. They can also test to identify mold types, which guides the proper remediation protocol. This expertise is crucial for large-scale or hidden mold problems.

Will my homeowners insurance cover mold removal?

Coverage depends on the source of the water that caused the mold. Mold resulting from a sudden, covered event like a burst pipe may be addressed. Mold from long-term neglect or maintenance issues is often excluded. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

How quickly should I address mold after finding it?

You should act quickly, as mold can spread in as little as 24 to 48 hours in damp conditions. Start by stopping the moisture source immediately. For small areas, begin cleaning right away with proper safety gear. For larger areas, contact a mold professional promptly for an assessment.