How to Rehab a House With Mold in It
Molds are a natural part of the environment. The microscopic spores are everywhere but, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, mold will not grow without water or moisture. Untreated mold can cause respiratory problems, and it makes its presence known with its distinctive odor. Eradicating mold in a home can be a tedious process, especially if large areas are affected. The process does not require any special tools, but it does require attention to detail, since all of the mold must be treated. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Gloves
- Goggles
- Facemask or respirator
- Detergent
- Scrub brush
- Wet vac
- HEPA vacuum
Instructions
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Find the source of the mold and treat it before you begin remediation. Check for water that could be entering from poor drainage or clogged gutters. Check under sinks and in the room below bathtubs for leaks. Make sure sump pumps are working. Avoid having a professional treat the mold without first finding the source.
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Put on gloves, goggles and a facemask or respirator. Remove and discard damaged drywall or other porous surfaces such as acoustic tile that are moldy. Even when the surface is cleaned, mold continues to grow in and behind the material.
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Scrub the mold on hard surfaces with warm, soapy water. Use a strong detergent such as TSP. Rinse and dry the surfaces completely. Use wood floor cleaner on wood.
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Steam clean or wet vac carpets and upholstery. Dry them thoroughly. Mold will not grow if there's no moisture.
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Vacuum surfaces, carpets and furniture with a HEPA vacuum once they've dried. Discard the vacuum's contents in sealed bags.
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Have the ducts in the house professionally cleaned if they were the source of the mold, or if mold was growing near or around the vents.
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Tips & Warnings
Operate dehumidifiers in humid areas. If a water problem reoccurs and surfaces are wet, dry them thoroughly as soon as possible. If you hire a contractor to clean up the mold, make sure the contractor is experienced in mold removal.
Do not paint moldy surfaces. Wear protective gear, and keep people who are allergic to mold or have respiratory problems out of the area. Hire a professional if the damage was caused by contaminated water such as sewage.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Environmental Health Perspectives
