DIY Mold Removal

Close any heating or air vents for the affected area, and install a window fan to pull the air out. Close the area with plastic sheets taped to the entrance. Do not touch the mold with your bare hands, put it in your eyes, or breathe in. Wear a business suit or disposable clothing that you can throw out after the job is done. Wear a respirator, gloves and goggles, and shower well after completion.

Take the right approach

Contrary to popular belief, you cannot kill mold with bleach. It may remove the appearance, but it will not get the roots, which will bloom again in a matter of days, and sometimes hours, if the area remains wet. Generally, the best way to get rid of mold is to completely remove infected material and rebuild. Removal is your only option if the moisture is coming from graywater or wastewater. If the source of moisture is clean, use a wet or wet steamer to remove wet or loose debris first and then place it in heavy duty garbage bags. Then wipe with water or scrub with disinfectants but do not soak the surface. When completely dry, deflate again with a HEPA vacuum.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email