Attics can be a breeze to clean, provided that they are cleaned at least 3 - 4 times a year. On the other hand, if you have not cleaned your attic for a long time, or in case you just moved into a new home with a dirty attic, things can be challenging.
Not only is it difficult to clean out a big, dusty, and stuffed attic, but there several potential health hazards to doing so as well. Stay with us as we discuss a few crucial tips that will help you stay safe while cleaning troublesome attics.
Scope for Risks You Can't Handle
In case you have recently come into possession of a house with a dirty attic, you need to be aware of the possible dangers. There are some situations homeowners cannot handle without severely jeopardizing their own health, as well as the health of their family. The following qualifies as such 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 the 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), do not attempt to clean the attic by yourself. For detecting, cleaning, removing, and decontaminating 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 then touching your mouth unwittingly. Both instances can be easily avoided by wearing a pair of gloves and a certified dust mask. If the dust is too thick, eye protection is also advisable. Also, don't forget to take a shower right after to prevent carrying anything out into the house with you.
Take It All Out First
When you are dealing with an overstuffed attic, you will need to take out everything that is 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 it easier to clean every corner or the attic space and inspect the insulation for damage/mold.
- help in cleaning the stuff that was stored up there, as well as throwing out anything that you decide not to put back up in there.
Do not 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.
