Doing a mold remediation project on your own instead of getting a professional to do the work for you can be a hassle, but if you do not have a lot of money, it might be for the best that you take care of a small scale infestation yourself. You should take the safety of your health into account when attempting such a thing, but if you purchase the correct amount and kind of equipment, you should be fine.
The health risks of mold exposure when you are taking on a project such as this are high if you do not take the proper precautions. Respiratory conditions and skin rashes, among other kinds of infections are likely to occur if you do not properly protect yourself. Allergic reactions and even death can result from some mold related disorders, so take extreme care.
If you are having to do invasive procedures such as taking out drywall or tearing up tile to get to the infection underneath, purchasing the maximum amount of equipment is going to be necessary. This will include not only a respirator of some kind from your hardware store, but also some breathable protective clothing and a roll of duct tape to seal up the areas where there are breaks in it, such as the ankles and wrists. A breathable body suit, foot covers, and gloves are necessary.
Purchasing some contractor grade trash bags is also a good idea, since what you are probably going to be doing is something that a contractor would have to do when remodeling a house. You will put mold contaminated materials in these bags.
You will also probably want to have a vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA filter included in it to remove the mold spores and other particle debris from the home after you are done. Since stirring up the mold spores is pretty much unavoidable, this will help you keep the spore count in the air under control. This is important whether you are wearing a respirator or not.
The respirator that you purchase can be one of about three different kinds. One is just a basic one that you can get from your local hardware store and the other two contain HEPA filters on them and come in half-face and full-face forms. A full face mask can be purchased for around $125.
Chemicals that kill mold are also going to be needed. You can find these at most department stores that sell cleaning supplies.
Jim Corkern is a writer and promoter of quality
Miami water damage restoration companies and
mold remediation companies across the united states.