Mold on walls and ceilings may seem like a simple eyesore but they can quickly turn into a health hazard. Various forms of household mold can cause allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory ailments in some people. For these reasons it is important to prevent the growth of mold in your home.
The Clean Solution
Surface mold can be removed with a mixture of bleach and water. Bleach is a common household liquid that, in addition to keeping clothes extra white, is effective in reducing the amount of bacteria and fungi on a variety of surfaces. According to Good Housekeeping's, "Detox Your House", a mild proportion suitable for removing mold from grout is 1/4 cup bleach, 6 cups warm water (2 oz. of bleach to 48 oz. of warm water). For a stronger solution to be used on cement and painted walls and ceilings, try a 1 cup bleach to 1 gallon warm water mixture (8 oz. of bleach to 128 oz. of warm water).
Before you make this mixture, consider any health concerns. Contact your physician if you have experience with allergic reactions, asthma or other respiratory complaints.
The EPA suggests that most cases of mold can be handled if they cover a surface under 10 square feet. If the surface is larger than that, contact a professional mold elimination service.
Ridding the Walls of Mold
In order to prevent problems with the spores and fumes from the bleach solution, you will need a pair of rubber gloves, protective eyewear and a respiratory mask. It is best to use a hard brush to remove the mold, soaking the brush in the cleaning solution for a few minutes before usage. Scrub away the mold with the brush or hard sponge. Afterward, use a cloth dampened with the bleach solution to wipe down the wall or ceiling surface. Allow the area to dry for a few minutes and dry it off with another clean cloth. You do not want to leave any moisture behind. Keep the air circulating and ventilated with a fan for at least 30 minutes after the job is completed. Dispose or thoroughly wash the rubber gloves, eyewear, respiratory mask and your clothes to ensure that the spores do not spread to other parts of the home.
Clean up and Maintain
You may have to repaint any surface following the mold removal procedure. Be sure to use mildew resistant paint or at least mix a mildew resistant additive into your paint. Most mildew and mold resistant paints guarantee a five-year effectiveness period.
If mold is particularly bad, investigate growth behind the exterior of walls and ceilings. This may lead to a more costly repair, but will greatly benefit your home and health.
Mold is born in a moist environment, so take some precautions to keep the air dry. Monitor indoor humidity, and try to keep it under 60 percent; ideally between 30 and 50 percent, by utilizing fans, de-humidifiers and opening windows. Indoor humidity can be gauged using an indoor hygrometer, or humidity meter.
For bathrooms, leave a window open and a fan running during and after showers. For kitchens, use a ventilator when cooking and boiling food and when running the dishwasher. For utility and other rooms, try to cover cold surfaces, including cold water pipes, with insulation.
Mold is impossible to completely eliminate, but steps can be taken to prevent its growth.
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