Restoration of Delicate Mold-Damaged Items

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

The mold cleaning process for delicate objects can be very complex

Mold growth in your Lumberville, PA, home can cause major damage. You might initially think of mold remediation as a process involving drywall replacement and other large jobs. However, mold cleaning involves more than just the big stuff.

What Items Need Special Care

Some objects may need to be sent to a specialized restorer. Such items include the following:

• Paintings
  
• Electronics
  
• Books
  
• Documents
  
• Photographs
  
  

If an expensive or sentimental item incurs mold damage, an experienced restorer can help you determine if it is salvageable and suggest the best cleaning method. Although the goal of mold cleaning is to restore items back to pre-mold condition, there may be some items that have incurred irreversible damage. Even in these cases, proper cleaning can prevent further mold damage.

Content Cleaning

Different items will be served best by different cleaning techniques. Abrasive cleaning, often using baking soda or dry ice, uses friction to knock the mold loose. After the mold has been knocked free, the spores must be vacuumed up to prevent re-infestation. Immersion cleaning involves submerging the item in a cleaning solution. Immersion and wet cleaning are ideal for sturdy objects that can handle high levels of moisture. Dry cleaning is better for more delicate items with less mold damage. Foam cleaning is frequently used on upholstery and other fabrics that are prone to shrinking.

Types of Cleaners

As with cleaning methods, there are a variety of cleaning solutions that can be used for different items. Some cleaners are gentle, while others have harsher chemicals or abrasive agents. The construction of the item and the type of mold growth present will determine the most appropriate cleaner. A professional can choose the best cleaner and cleaning technique to get your mold-damaged contents clean again.
The mold cleaning process for delicate objects can be very complex. Most homeowners do not have the necessary skills and equipment to take care of these items themselves. Fortunately, an experienced restoration company can help you get your possessions, small and large, back to normal.