The short answer
Small Spots You Can Handle
For a small patch of mold on a hard surface like tile or glass, you can often clean it yourself. Use soap and water or a mild detergent, scrub the area, and dry it completely. Keep the area dry afterward to prevent the mold from returning.
If the mold is on porous materials like drywall, carpet, or wood, even a small spot can be tricky. Porous materials absorb moisture, so mold can grow deeper than you can see. In that case, consider calling the pros, especially if the spot is larger than a few square feet.
- Spot is smaller than a few square feet
- Surface is hard and non-porous
- No health symptoms in your household
- No sewage or floodwater involved
- You can dry the area completely after cleaning
When Mold Spreads Widely
If mold covers a large area, such as a wall, ceiling, or floor, that is a sign to call the pros. Large mold growth often means there is a bigger moisture problem, like a hidden leak or poor ventilation. The pros have equipment to find the source and remove mold safely.
Mold can also spread to areas you cannot see, like inside wall cavities or under flooring. If you notice a musty smell but see no visible mold, that could indicate hidden growth. The pros can inspect with moisture meters and borescopes to locate the problem.
- Visible mold covers more than a few square feet
- Musty odor persists despite cleaning
- Mold appears on multiple surfaces or rooms
- You suspect moisture behind walls or under floors
Health Symptoms in Your Home
Mold can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory issues. If anyone in your home experiences coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, or breathing trouble that improves when they leave the house, mold might be the cause. Children, older adults, and people with asthma are especially sensitive.
If you notice these symptoms, see a doctor if you feel unwell. The pros can remove the mold and help address the moisture source to reduce exposure. Do not attempt to clean large mold areas yourself if you have health concerns.
- Coughing or sneezing that worsens indoors
- Asthma flare-ups or breathing difficulty
- Skin irritation or headaches
- Symptoms improve when away from the home
Mold from Sewage or Floodwater
Mold that grows after sewage backup or flooding is a different situation. Sewage contains bacteria and viruses, and floodwater can carry contaminants. Do not try to clean this yourself. The pros have protective gear and sanitizing methods to handle biohazards.
If your home has experienced a sewage backup or flood, you may need professional cleanup before addressing mold. For sewage, see the sewage backup cleanup service. For flood damage, see the flood damage cleanup service. These situations require special handling to keep your home safe.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
- Mold appears after sewage backup
- Mold grows after floodwater intrusion
- You see or smell sewage odors
- Porous materials like drywall or carpet are affected
When to Seek Professional Help
If you are unsure whether you can handle a mold problem, it is often safer to call the pros. They can assess the extent of growth, find the moisture source, and remove mold without spreading spores through your home. This is especially important for large or hidden growth.
If you live in Rogers, keep a list of local water damage pros handy for emergencies. Acting quickly can prevent mold from spreading further. For smaller issues, you might handle them, but for anything beyond a small patch, professional help is a reasonable choice.
- You are unsure about the extent of mold
- You cannot find the moisture source
- Mold returns after cleaning
- You plan to sell or renovate your home
Talk to someone now
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (479) 370-1500Frequently asked questions
Can I clean mold myself with bleach?
Bleach can work on hard, non-porous surfaces, but it does not penetrate porous materials like drywall or wood. For those, you may need to remove and replace the material. For large areas, the pros have better methods and safety equipment.
How do I know if mold is hidden behind walls?
A persistent musty smell is a clue. You might also see water stains, peeling paint, or warped baseboards. The pros can use moisture meters and borescopes to inspect behind walls without tearing them open.
What should I do while waiting for a pro?
Limit moisture and airflow to prevent spores from spreading. Close off the room, avoid running fans, and do not touch the mold. If you must enter, wear gloves and a mask. Keep children and pets away from the area.