Mold growing on your walls is not only unsightly but it is also unhealthy as it can cause serious respiratory problems and other health issues. Also, as the mold continues to grow and spread in your living space, it can ruin building materials and weakens the structural integrity of your home. To protect your home and your family safe against mold, take immediate and efficient actions the moment your first see signs of mold growing on your walls.
Signs of Molds on Walls
Every home can be susceptible to mold growth. It grows in areas with high levels of humidity, such as a bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room. Unfortunately, our homes, at some point, have this condition for mold to start thriving and spreading.
However, it is not very apparent to see signs of mold growing on your walls. Often, they remain hidden and by the time you notice them, they have already caused serious damage to the building materials of your home.
As you inspect your wall, the first sign that you can notice is the green, orange, white, grey, and black patches. But there are also other signs likes;
- Cracked or peeling paint,
- Discoloration,
- Bulging,
- Damp or musty smell
- And, allergic reactions with no known cause.
How To Remove Molds From Walls
Removing molds on coated walls can be done with some cleaning agents. Just make sure to act fast to prevent it from spreading in other areas of the walls.
Step 1: Prepare the Area
Mold spores can travel in the air and spread in other areas of your home. Make sure to close the door of the room you are working on or you can hang a plastic sheeting to block off the area. Remove decorative items like curtains, electrical equipment, and furniture from the affected area. Also, cover the floor with plastic sheets and secure them with tape to keep the area protected from chemical spills and drips.
Step 2: Apply Mold Removal Solutions
Spray the solution to the moldy area and scrub it with a clean cloth or a sponge with an abrasive side.
Step 3: Reapply The Solution
Apply the mold removal solution to the affected area once again but do it lightly this time. Apply only enough amount of solution to dampen the area, but do not drench it to avoid adding moisture which can cause an additional mold problem.
Step 4: Dry Out The Area
Leaving the are wet can be a breeding ground for mold, so you have to dry out the area thoroughly. Place a fan and point it to the wall.
How To Remove Mold From Unpainted Drywall
Removing mold from unpainted drywall is a bit challenging. These surfaces are porous and has no protective barrier. It means that mold has already penetrated in the structural materials of the drywall.
1. During the cleanup process, mold can break free and find their way to the surrounding areas. Protect floors and other nearby surfaces by covering them with plastic sheeting.
2. Mark the affected area but be sure to draw a larger area than the stain itself. Removing larger than the affected area gives you chances of getting rid of unseen mold spores.
3. Cut it out using a utility knife and throw it in a plastic bag.
4. Clean the room using a HEPA (high-Efficiency Particulate Air) vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining mold spores.
5. Before installing new drywall, consider painting the interior wall cavity wiht mold-reistant paint.
6. Fit the new piece of drywall into the hole and attach it into the wooden beams using screws and joint compound.
7. Vacuum the area once again using a HEPA to completely remove molds in the room.
How To Prevent Mold From Growing on Your Walls
- Keep the humidity levels in your home as low as you can.
- Ventilate your home properly. Exhaust fans in your kitchen or bathroom should be ventilating outside of your home.
- Check roofs to see signs of damage like loose or missing shingles. Do it after a severe storm.
- Use air conditioners or humidifiers during humid months.
- Clean bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchen regularly to see signs of damage.
- If caulk or grout in the tub and shower, replace them immediately.
- Use fans in basement for proper air circulation.
Professional Mold Remediation Services
When it comes to mold problems, it is important to act fast. It just takes 24 to 48 hours for mold to begin thriving and causing great damage to your home.
In case the mold has affected a larger area of your home, and that removing it is a bit challenging, trust Water Damage Riverside. We have a team of professionals that can quickly and efficiently remove mold from your wall and other surfaces. Rest assured that we will completely remove mold and make your living space a healthy place to live again. Contact our local office today, Water Damage Riverside to know more about our mold remediation services.