Mold on walls should not be a cause of panic. Indeed, mold can be a health threat and structural hazard, but as long as you know how to remove mold from walls, you’ll be all right.
Mold-infested walls are usually easy to treat. If the infested wall is non-porous, you can easily remove the mold with a wet cloth and/or a mold-killing solution. If it is porous, however, it is likely that you will have to cut away the mold-infested area and replace it.
Signs of Mold on Walls
Tell-tale signs that indicate moisture and possible mold growth on walls include bulging wall, peeling or cracked paint, musty smell, and discoloration. If you discover small mold spots on walls, it could mean that there is a larger mold colony on the other side.
Why Walls are Prone to Mold
Mold grows in places where humidity levels are high, condensation takes place, and water leaks occur. Since all three scenarios often happen inside walls, they seldom get noticed. Thus, mold proliferates.
They commonly grow out of sight, typically in wall cavities as these spaces have pockets of humid air. Wallpaper is also a usual place for mold to grow because wallpaper glue usually have organic debris that mold loves to munch on.
How to Remove Mold from Walls that are Painted
Going all-natural is a good way to start. If a mild, natural method does not do the trick, then move on to a stronger approach. To begin, use a mold-killing agent that combines borax, vinegar, and water. Let the solution sit on the surface for ten minutes before wiping it off. Wait a couple of days. If the mold returns, use a water and bleach solution. But keep in mind that bleach can irritate the eyes, skin and even the lungs when inhaled, so if its use is not necessary, just avoid it.
Whatever method you use, though, make sure you wear rubber gloves to prevent coming in contact with mold. Also, you want the area to be well ventilated while you’re at work to avoid inhaling mold spores.
How to Remove Mold from Drywall and Ceiling
Drywall is made from porous materials, so you most probably need to cut away the portion of the drywall that has mold all over it. This is because materials like drywall and popcorn ceilings are not sealed. So when mold grows, it threads into the structure of the material.
You may try to remove it with a mold-killing solution, but if the nasty fungi reappears, you will need to replace the infested drywall. Meanwhile, if you’re not ready to say good-bye to your ceiling, contact a mold removal expert to treat the area.
Prevention is the Key
Now that you’ve remedied the situation, make sure it doesn’t happen the second time around. By as simple as controlling the humidity levels and environmental conditions in your home, you won’t have to worry about mold bothering your life again!
For more information, see: The Dangers of Black Mold
