Attics can be a breeze, provided they are cleaned at least three–four times a year. On the other hand, things can be challenging if you have not cleaned your attic for a long time or just moved into a new home with a dirty attic.
Not only is it difficult to clean out a big, dusty, and stuffed attic, but there are several potential health hazards to doing so as well. Stay with us as we discuss a few crucial tips to help you stay safe while cleaning troublesome attics.
Scope for Risks You Can’t Handle
If you have recently come into possession of a house with a dirty attic, you must be aware of the possible dangers, and be prepared that you may need to hire professional Bat Removal services, for example. Bats tend to make themselves at home in attics due to the warmth, darkness, and seclusion, so if an attic has been left unattended it could be likely they have claimed the space. There are also some other situations homeowners cannot handle without severely jeopardizing their health, as well as the health of their family, and would benefit from services provided by professionals. The following qualifies as biological/chemical hazards, especially in old, unmaintained buildings.
- Asbestos: Old homes built before the 1980s may have deadly asbestos in the attic’s insulation.
- Lead particles: Old homes painted before the 1980s may contain toxic lead particles.
- Animal droppings: Droppings from rats, mice, raccoons, and other animals should be considered potential health hazards.
- Mold: Certain species of fungus can severely degrade air quality, compromise the immune system, and cause/aggravate respiratory problems.
If any of the above can be observed inside the attic or is applicable by history (construction/renovation dates), don’t attempt to clean the attic by yourself. To detect, clean, remove, and decontaminate all biological/chemical health hazards from the attic, contact the local professionals at https://atticprojectscompany.com/.
Wear a Dust Mask and a Pair of Gloves
So many people ignore this simple step and end up contracting respiratory diseases in the process. Even if the attic is free of lead or asbestos, dust is never good for your lungs, irrespective of whether you have asthma or a history of allergies. Then, there is also the chance of contracting a stomach/intestinal infection after touching microscopic bacteria from animal droppings and touching your mouth unwittingly. Wearing gloves and a certified dust mask can easily avoid both instances. If the dust is too thick, eye protection is also advisable. Also, don’t forget to shower immediately to prevent carrying anything out into the house with you.
Take It All Out First
When dealing with an overstuffed attic, you’ll need to take out everything stored up there first. Do so carefully and take them out one at a time. This should:
- keep you safe from bumping, tripping, and falling inside the attic.
- Make cleaning every corner of the attic space easier and inspect the insulation for damage/mold.
- Help clean the stored stuff and throw out anything you decide not to put back up there.
Don’t attempt to remove heavy furniture from the attic alone because such attempts lead to several accidents every year. After a certain age, even the simple act of climbing attic ladders unassisted could lead to serious, life-threatening falls.
