Blog Layout

How Online Mold Misinformation Can Be Dangerous

Mold Misinformation Spreads Through Online Searches

The first thing anyone does when they have an issue of any kind is to search online for solutions. We’ve all done it, and mold issues within the home are no different. It is completely understandable that you would look for a solution online. However, what you may not realize is that the amount of mold misinformation on the internet is vast. It outnumbers viable information tenfold. Like anyone who isn’t directly related to the mold remediation industry, you probably won’t be able to differentiate between what is misinformation and what is legitimate. Similar to when you have a cold and online searches lead to extreme conclusions, mold misinformation can spread rapidly, causing you to want to take action immediately. The amount of misinformation online can make it difficult for you to make an educated decision about what course of action to take in regards to the mold issue. The best thing you can do is reach out to a professional mold remediation company and let them handle the situation. 

What NOT To Use To Clean Mold

Everyone wants to try their hand at a little DIY from time to time, and there’s nothing wrong with that - in most circumstances. However, mold really is not one of those circumstances. Inaccurate sources spreading unreliable mold misinformation can leave you with not only the same mold you started with, but probably even more damage than before. One of the most widely known bits of mold misinformation is the notion that you can clean mold with bleach. It is true that bleach is generally an efficient surface cleaner. However, the thing about mold is that it does not just sit on the surface of porous building materials, rather it seeps into the material. So while it may seem like the bleach did a good job on the surface, there is more than meets the eye. Bleach has a high water content. Mold thrives on moisture. You see where we’re going with this. This high water content in bleach has the potential to actually make a mold problem within a home much worse than it initially was, rather than resolving it. 

Why You Should Not Try To Remove Mold On Your Own

A huge mistake that many people make when looking for solutions to household mold issues online is that they will be willing to try just about anything. Understandably, everyone wants there to be an easy, accessible solution to any household issue that arises. Without the proper knowledge and equipment to handle a mold remediation adequately, a DIY mold remediation will most likely make the mold problem much worse than it was in the beginning.

A main issue with attempting a DIY mold remediation is the risk of not only more mold development, but also cross contamination. Since most people who don’t work in the industry don’t have access to proper containment and personal protective equipment, this means that cross contamination is inevitable. Containment is the only way to prevent cross contamination from occurring, so it is essential to any successful (professional) mold remediation. Aside from cross contamination, another concern that can arise when attempting to clean mold on your own is the potential health implication. People with sensitivities to mold can experience mild to severe allergic reactions if proper action is not taken. Overall, mold remediation is something that needs to be left to the professionals. 

Unreliable Sources Spreading Mold Misinformation 

It’s not uncommon to turn to online resources when you have an issue you need resolved. Mold remediation can get pricey in some situations, so it makes sense that you’d want to explore other solutions. However, this mold misinformation that you may come across online can make matters much worse within your home. You may think it can’t get any worse than it already is, but the truth is that mold remediation is a process that has many moving parts to make it work smoothly and successfully. Each step serves an important purpose in an effective mold removal job. 

Unreliable sources telling you to use bleach on mold, or shady websites trying to sell you a magical mold cleaning solution for a quick buck will inevitably do more harm than good. The best option to save yourself from even more extensive mold damage is to contact a professional mold remediation company in your area. Even if you just call to ask a few questions about the best course of action, they will be much more knowledgeable on the subject than a random web forum. Advice from a professional will get you much further than misinformation you found online, saving you money, time, and energy. If you aren’t sure whether information you found online is viable or not, it is always best to assume that it can’t be trusted. Better safe than sorry, and letting the professionals handle a mold issue within your home is always the way to go.

To learn more about DryMax's mold inspection & remediation services in your area, call 337-446-2042 today!

You might also like

DryMax Mold Blogs

Preventing Mold in Louisiana: A Homeowners Guide to Healthy Living

By Thomas Duff • February 20, 2024
Preventing Mold in Louisiana: A Homeowners Guide to Healthy Living

Navigating Mold Damage Insurance Claims in Louisiana

By Thomas Duff • February 5, 2024
Mold Damage and Insurance Coverage in Louisiana When it comes to homeowners insurance in Louisiana, coverage for mold damage hinges on the source of the mold and the specific provisions in the insurance policy. For instance, mold removal is typically covered when the source of the mold is a peril already covered in homeowners insurance policies in Louisiana, such as water damage from burst pipes or malfunctioning appliances. However, it's important to note that mold damage from natural disasters or homeowner negligence is usually not covered by homeowners insurance in Louisiana. An example of this is when a homeowner experiences water damage from a burst pipe, and this leads to mold growth in their home. In this scenario, the mold removal would likely be covered because the source of the mold (water damage) is a peril already covered in a standard homeowners insurance policy in Louisiana. On the other hand, if the mold is a result of long-term neglect of a leaking pipe, it may not be covered under the policy. Some homeowners insurance companies have gone as far as dropping coverage for mold altogether in Louisiana, making it crucial for homeowners to carefully review their insurance policies and seek professional advice to ensure they fully understand their coverage. This underscores the significance of homeowners being proactive in understanding the extent of their coverage and taking steps to prevent mold growth in their properties. Understanding the nuances of mold damage coverage under homeowners insurance in Louisiana is essential for homeowners in safeguarding their properties. It's imperative to review insurance policies diligently and seek professional help if facing a mold damage claim , especially in cases where claims have been denied or underpaid based on mold exclusions.

The Mold Menace: How Mold Infestation Can Diminish Property Values in Louisiana

By Thomas Duff • January 31, 2024
The Mold Menace: How Mold Infestation Can Diminish Property Values in Louisiana The article explores the impact of mold on property values in Louisiana, discussing how mold can cause structural damage, health issues, and decrease the desirability of properties, while also providing tips for prevention and remediation. Understanding Mold and Its Effects on Property Values Mold's impact on property values in the Louisiana real estate market is multifaceted and can have significant repercussions for both buyers and sellers. When mold infestation occurs, it can result in a myriad of issues that affect the value of a property. From causing structural damage to diminishing aesthetic appeal, increasing maintenance costs, and impacting market desirability, the presence of mold can lead to a decrease in property value. For example, the discovery of mold in a home can lead to potential buyers negotiating for a lower price to account for the costs of addressing the mold issue and the perceived decrease in the property's value. The potential health implications of mold infestation are a pivotal factor in understanding its impact on property values. Long-term exposure to mold can lead to persistent sinusitis, respiratory infections, and even brain disorders, affecting the desirability and value of a property. For instance, if a property has a history of mold infestation leading to health issues for previous occupants, it can significantly reduce its appeal and market value, as potential buyers may be deterred by the health risks associated with mold exposure.
Share by: