Finding Mold on Walls
Mold comes in many colors, including white, blue, black, and green. If you see any discoloration on your wall and suspect that it is mold, get it tested before you touch it. Another sign of mold growth is a musty or mildew smell. Be sure to trust your nose and instincts. For example, if you know that certain areas of your home have been water damaged, it’s best to schedule professional mold testing.
Preparing to Remove the Mold
If mold is growing on your walls, it might also be growing on surrounding areas. Make sure to move furniture and any other objects touching a moldy wall before starting the mold removal process. This will give you space to work and prevent a moldy surface from touching the wall once it’s clean.
It’s also important to wear the right clothing and equipment during this process. Protect your hands with rubber gloves and your eyes with safety goggles. Also, wear a respirator mask or dust mask so you don’t breathe in any mold spores. It’s also worth wearing some old clothes in case you get any bleach on yourself while removing the mold.
Removing the Mold With Bleach
Bleach is the best household item to kill mold on walls. Start by mixing one part bleach with three parts water in a bucket. Then, use a scrub brush or heavy duty sponge and scrub the wall until all mold spots are gone. You may need to let the solution sit on the walls for a few minutes to soak in. If the mold isn’t going away, you might also need a formulated mold remover.
Finishing the Job
Once you’ve thoroughly scrubbed the wall, pat it dry with a towel. If there is any mold you missed, get back to it. In the case that there are stains left from the mold, you can purchase a mold/mildew stain remover from your local hardware store.
Preventing Mold on Walls
When it comes to preventing mold on walls, the best defense is a strong offense. Because water damage is the leading cause of mold in homes, you’ll need to be proactive about protecting your home. In a damp state like Oregon, it can be challenging to keep the moisture levels in your home low. To safeguard your home from water damage and mold, follow these tips:
- Run a dehumidifier in your home, including in your basement.
- Make sure all exhaust fans (e.g., clothes dryer) vent outside.
- Fix leaky roofs immediately.
- Identify and repair cracks in your home’s foundation.
Southern Oregon’s Best Mold Removal Company
ProKleen provides Southern Oregon with the best mold testing, mold removal, and mold remediation services. Likewise, we provide professional emergency services, including immediate water damage restoration. ProKleen is an IIRC certified firm and a 2020 Best of Home Advisor winner. If you’ve recently had a flood or leak and suspect you have mold growing in your home, call us today at 541-857-1818. We provide 24/7 emergency services for water damage and fast service for mold testing and removal.