Removing Mold From Walls

Mold is a common problem in many houses. It is one of the most unpleasant conditions that does not look welcoming or hygienic. Mold is also dangerous for humans as it can harm living beings, including plants and pets. Mold should be instantly removed from walls as it can cause significant health concerns for many people. If you have asthma or a lung disease, being around mould can also put your life in danger.

Why does mould occur on walls?

Mold can develop on any surface with moisture trapped within the external or internal body. Common causes of mould on walls are leaky plumbing, poor heat insulation, exposure to moisture, and even low ventilation. Mold is also seen after the monsoon season, especially when the house's exterior is exposed to rainwater and seeps into the foundation, causing mildew and musty odours.

Mold commonly develops in dark and damp areas, including attics, basements, or crawl spaces. Other than these, mould infestation can happen within your room's walls depending on your humidity and ventilation level.

Ways to Remove Mold from Walls

1. Prepare a concentrated mixture of water and vinegar and use a clean cloth to remove the mould from the surface. You will feel the powdery mould coming off, and its spores will start mixing with the air.
2. If the mould is not spreading around, sprinkle some baking soda on it, as it will absorb the moisture from the surface. You can later vacuum or sweep up the baking soda once the process is complete.
3. It is essential that you wear a mask, eye protection, and gloves to avoid inhaling these mould spores, as they can be one reason for breathing concerns or developing minor asthma.
4. Start by working on a patch test first, because you will be working on the entire wall. Once you have removed the mold, use a mild mixture of chlorine bleach and water and spray some of the affected area.
5. If you have painted walls, the colour will start to lighten and even change because of the chlorine bleach.
6. If the mould is not removed by spraying and using a damp cloth, try scrubbing it with a soft bristle brush, and it will come right off.
7. Clean the affected area with cold water and a clean cloth. Always use a damp cloth as you don’t want more moisture trapped in the mold-infected area.
8. Install fans or open a window to allow sunlight and air to pass through. Consistent ventilation and lower humidity levels are the keys to mold-free walls.

Ways to Prevent Mold on Walls

Once you have cleaned the affected area of mold, it is time to instil methods using which the mould won’t come back. Mold reappearing on surfaces is another common problem, which is why determining the root cause is absolutely important. Once you have eliminated that concern, with a bit of maintenance, mould will not come back on walls. Some maintenance tips include:

1. Use adequate insulation for your home.
2. Check for any plumbing faults and get them fixed professionally.
3. Ventilate the areas with sunlight and fresh air.
4. Install a dehumidifier in the colder months.

How to tackle larger mold-infested areas

It is best advised to call for professional help for larger areas. The hacks mentioned above are for smaller infected areas that can be fixed if handled with safety and complete instructions. However, completely mold-ridden walls need expert help. The composition of chemicals and adequate safety are only professionally available. Furthermore, there are hazardous concerns that cannot be ignored. Mold can cause allergies and breathing issues and even trigger asthma, which can be fatal for patients. It needs to be cleaned internally and removed to avoid re-infestation.