SANDUSKY, Ohio – When a homeowner discovers mold growing in his home, the temptation may be to clean it up and move on, but before any mold situation can be remediated, the moisture source must be eliminated, or mitigated, to prevent a re-occurrence of mold growth.

"Mold growth is often characterized by a musty smell or visible patches of growth on walls, windows or ceilings following a water leak or flood," said Jon Fields, Certified Mold Remediator and President of RestorePro. "Mold spores are present in every home, but thrive in oxygen-rich environments where there is standing water or humidity over 60 percent."

The first step in taking care of a mold problem is to make sure the area is dried thoroughly. If not completely dried out within 48 to 72 hours, excessive household moisture can cause mold colonies to grow on wood, paper, carpet, drywall or household items.

Fields says it is important to take steps to prevent household mold because it has been directly linked to a number of health problems including asthma, sinus infections and other respiratory ailments.

Homeowners who have experienced high moisture conditions and suspect mold is growing on wood, carpeting or inside walls or ceilings, should call a certified restoration contractor, who will clean up or eliminate the mold source and provide help preventing further water damage. However, there are a few simple steps homeowners can take first:

Run a commercial dehumidifier in the affected area with proper containment.
Remove all water from the area and any water-soaked objects, including furniture, cardboard, carpet, pad, and personal contents, etc.
If you see mold growing, do NOT attempt to clean it up with bleach. Bleach can be hazardous to your health if handled improperly.
Call a certified microbial remediation professional.
Ohio-based RestorePro, Inc. is an IICRC certified firm that specializes in structural drying, water, fire and smoke damage restoration, mold remediation, asbestos remediation, sewage back-up remediation, and other emergency disaster restoration services, including full reconstruction. Servicing Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Michigan.