The first thing you must know in dealing with mold problems is that there's no easy way to get rid of it.
Cleaning up mold infestation is usually a job for professionals, but there are cases that homeowners can handle on their own. Once you start getting into large amounts of mold, what you may end up doing is accidentally releasing some of the mold into the air. If you don't capture all the mold, you could create a larger problem.
Note: The Environmental Protection Agency recommends that homeowners don't attempt to clean a mold problem larger than a three-foot by three-foot patch. Anything larger requires professional assistance.
Cleaning Up Mold
Safety Materials:
Goggles without air holes
Filter mask (rated N-95 or higher)
Rubber gloves that extend to the middle of the forearm (select gloves made from natural rubber, neoprene, nitrile, polyurethane or PVC if using a disinfectant, a biocide such as chlorine bleach or other cleaning solution)
Cleaning Agent:
Experts used to recommend bleach and water, but because bleach can be dangerous when mixed with some other chemicals, the EPA now recommends a mixture of mild detergent and water.
Tools:
Scraper or sponge
Small drywall saw for removing material that can't be cleaned
Notes:
- It's important to have sturdy gloves that have no rips because even the smallest amount of exposure to mold can cause skin irritations or rashes. And be sure to throw the gloves "away" once you're through. Don't reuse!
- The EPA suggests wearing sealed goggles without holes to guard against mold spores coming in contact with your eyes.
- To keep from inhaling the spores, it's vital that you wear a filter mask. The rating of N-95 stands for the percentage of particles that will be captured and stopped from coming through the mask. For example, with the N-95 filter mask, it will capture 95 percent of the particles released when removing the mold. Make sure the mask is comfortable but tight enough to eliminate any air leakage.
- To clean mold from a hard surface such as metal, the EPA recommends a scraper or sponge and a mixture of water and detergent. For a porous surface such as drywall or wood, there's no easy cleanup method. You probably have to remove the actual material—using a saw to cut it away—before replacing.
If you suspect a larger mold problem lurking behind your cleanup, remember to call a professional.
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The Mold Quiz is provided courtesy of our sister site, DIYnet.com
