Mold spores are always present in the air. When these spores find the right environment, mold can begin to grow. Mold requires both a food source and moisture to thrive, which is why it often appears after water damage. Areas like kitchens and bathrooms, which tend to be wetter, are common sites for mold growth. This explains why mold can appear on walls, including tiled walls and painted drywall.
If you discover mold on your walls, addressing it promptly is crucial. Given enough time, mold can lead to more significant problems. It feeds on building materials, gradually deteriorating the structure and posing health risks to occupants. Therefore, it’s essential to tackle mold issues immediately.
Cleaning Mold from Tiled Walls
If you find mold on the walls of your home, it’s crucial to address the issue immediately. Mold commonly grows on tile walls and flooring as these surfaces are typically found in moist areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Fortunately, it is relatively easy to remove mold from tile surfaces using bleach, vinegar, or baking soda.
Cleaning Mold with Bleach
The simplest method to tackle mold on tiled walls is to spray bleach directly on the affected areas. Keep in mind that bleach can lighten grout. After applying the bleach, let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Then, scrub the area with a stiff brush and rinse it off with water. Note that bleach is a potent chemical. If you prefer a natural alternative, consider using distilled vinegar instead.
Using Vinegar to Remove Mold
You can use vinegar in place of bleach from the previous step. Simply spray the moldy area with vinegar and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Then, scrub the area with a brush. Afterward, spray the affected sections with vinegar again and allow it to sit for another 30 minutes. Finally, rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Using Baking Soda to Remove Mold
Mix a few teaspoons of water with ½ cup of baking soda to form a paste. Apply the paste to moldy areas and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then, scrub the areas with a brush and rinse with water.
Cleaning Mold from Painted or Wallpapered Walls
If you notice mold on your painted or wallpapered walls, you can effectively remove it using natural ingredients. You will need a bowl, a spray bottle, a brush, water, white vinegar, and borax.
Start by mixing two cups of hot water, two tablespoons of borax, and a quarter cup of vinegar in a bowl. Make sure the ingredients are well combined, then transfer the mixture to a spray bottle.
Generously spray the affected areas of the wall with the solution. Use a brush to scrub the moldy spots, wiping them clean afterward. Continue applying the solution as necessary. Allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes, then wipe the area dry.
This method should help you eliminate mold while keeping your home environment safe.
Preventing Mold on Walls
If you discover mold on your painted or wallpapered walls, natural ingredients can help you remove it effectively. The key is eliminating the moisture that fosters mold growth. By doing so, you disrupt the environment where mold thrives. Additionally, you can take steps to prevent excess moisture from accumulating in the future, thereby mitigating the risk of the mold returning.
Here are some things you can do to prevent mold growth from occurring:
- Always run the exhaust fan after your bath or shower for at least 10 minutes
- Fix any leaks from appliances, roof, foundation, or anywhere else
- Always clean up any extra water or moisture
How is mold usually found in your home?
The most effective way to determine if you have mold in your home is with a professional mold inspection. A mold inspector uses specialized tools and techniques to detect mold problems on your property. They employ thermal imaging tools and air sampling machines, known as “spore traps,” which intake air and test for mold spores.
Inspectors typically collect air samples from both outside and inside the home, comparing the results to identify any discrepancies. Since mold can often be hidden from plain sight, they take air samples from various locations within the home, especially in areas prone to mold growth like basements, bathrooms, and attics. This comprehensive approach ensures that any mold issues are thoroughly identified and assessed.
Generally, mold can also be found with humidity readers. This is usually done after water damage. Thermal imaging can also be found to see if mold is hiding within walls and may not be visible to the naked eye.
If visible mold is present, a sample can be taken to determine if it is toxic, such as black mold. If black mold is detected and covers an area larger than 10 inches, professional mold remediation services are required to remove it and sanitize the space, preventing future growth.
When do I need to hire a professional mold remediation company?
Depending on the extent and location of the mold, you might be able to clean it yourself using the methods we’ve outlined above. For small areas of mold on walls, home remedies can be effective. However, for larger affected areas, it’s best to call in professionals. If you suffer from allergies or asthma, addressing the mold issue promptly is crucial to prevent further health complications.
Professional Mold Remediation
Are you dealing with mold at home caused by water damage? Our experts can help. We provide complete water damage restoration in which we swiftly and efficiently clean, dry, disinfect, and restore your property. Addressing water damage helps reduce the risk of mold growth that can cause further issues for your property. We can also help you take steps to prevent mold growth after water damage.
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CEO of NuEra Restoration and Remodeling – certified by IICRC and specializes in residential and commercial building restoration, carpet cleaning, painting, and remodeling – 10+ years of experience in business and restoration with strong leadership skills.