How To Remove Mold From Basement Walls

You might believe that your basement’s musty smell is normal. It’s not unusual for basements to smell this way, but it happens. It is often a sign that mold has grown in your basement. You will need to get rid of the mold and moisture that is contributing to the musty smell in your basement . You may see mold growing in basement walls. It can be very pale, black, green, or brown depending on the species that has colonized the area. It is important to identify the type of mold that you have in order to better understand the issue and provide a solution. Mold can cause respiratory problems and other health problems. No matter the type of mold you find in your home, it is important to take safety measures to eliminate it and prevent further growth.

Seven Common Questions About Removing Mold From Basement Walls

1. What Causes Mold To Grow On Basement Walls
Mold will reproduce if it has access to dependable food and enough moisture. Cellulose is the most reliable food source for mold. It can be found in wood- and paper-based materials, which are plentiful in homes. To grow, it needs high moisture. Some types, like Stachybotrys Chartarum (a.k.a. black mould requires constant water, while some types (e.g. Stachybotrys chartarum) can thrive with only occasional moisture or high humidity. Basements are often poorly ventilated, which allows moisture or dampness to build up inside. This is a perfect environment for mold growth, thanks to the cellulose in drywall, insulation backing, and dust.

2. Is It Possible To Wash Off Mold From Walls?
This answer has two parts. The good news is that mold can be removed from wall surfaces very easily. A vinegar-soaked rag, or spray with commercial mold remover can be used to clean the mold off of walls. While this might suffice for a quick fix, it won’t solve the bigger problem. We will now get to the second part. It is not possible to wash mold off walls and other surfaces. You must eliminate any water sources that encourage mold growth in order to get rid of it. Mold cannot survive without water and reproduce. Mold cannot survive in dry environments. Any small amount of mold that is left behind won’t be able to rehydrate and start growing new colonies in your basement walls.

The surface mold will be removed from walls to make them more appealing. But it won’t solve the root problem. There are millions, if not more! There are millions of tiny fungi living inside them, and they are eating, reproducing, and multiplying. Because drywall is covered with paper, which is one mold’s favorite food, they will quickly return to the walls. You will need to do much more than just wash the mold. You also need to eliminate any water that may be feeding it. So that you don’t have to worry about mold spores in your basement walls, our mold remediation specialists will remove them.

3. How Do You Remove Mold From Walls?
The EPA doesn’t recommend that homeowners try to eliminate large mold infestations. Instead, contact professional mold remediation specialists to safely remove the mold and remove any contaminated materials. Guidance is available from the EPA for homeowners interested in removing mold growth from walls. These are the basic steps:

1. Remove water sources.
2. Wear gloves and a personal respiratory mask. These will protect you against any mold spores or other harmful substances.
3. After this is done, it’s important to take proper precautions to seal off any contaminated areas. It is possible to use a ventilation system which vents the air outside and brings in fresh, clean air.
4. Get rid of any visible mold. Hidden spores can be removed by extending slightly beyond the borders that are damaged.
5. The next step is to apply a fungicide or mold inhibitor to the walls . Be sure to follow the instructions.
6. After the area has dried completely, you can remove and replace any materials.

4. How Do You Remove Mold From Concrete Basement Walls?
Concrete walls pose different problems. Concrete walls are lower in cellulose than finished walls made of wood or drywall. This means mold will need to find food more difficult. Basements are often full of dust, which makes it difficult for them to reproduce and stay healthy. These basements can also be a major obstacle in eradicating existing infestations. The contaminated materials are removed from the mold and then replaced with new ones. Concrete is more difficult than that, as you cannot just remove a part of the foundation. However, concrete walls can be removed easily. Our mold removal professionals are best suited for this job.

5. What Is The Best Product To Remove Mold From Walls?
There are many products available to kill mold. Some are more effective than others. RMR Complete mold killer and disinfectant is a popular choice. The EPA-registered formulation kills mold, removes stains, and exterminates odors in just one step. It can also be used as a household disinfectant, killing bacteria and viruses so you have other uses for any product left over. Be careful when choosing a product for their home. They may need ventilation support or special equipment. Some products are not suitable for indoor use because they are designed to combat outdoor mold. This is especially true for basements which are often low in height and lack natural ventilation. Others choose to use a natural approach, which can be just as effective. High-potency vinegar, for example, can kill mold deep within porous materials such as basement walls. Its high acidity can cause damage to some surfaces making it unsuitable for removal of mold on natural stone, waxed timber, aluminum, cast iron, and waxed wood.

6. Is Bleach A Good Option To Get Rid Of Mold In Basements?
Many homeowners think of bleach to remove mold from walls or other surfaces. It is not an effective tool. The EPA recommends against bleach in almost all cases. It can be extremely toxic if mixed with other household chemicals. After bleaching, a few living organisms can be left behind. These residual molds can grow once they are sealed up again inside your walls. You will find yourself in the exact same situation as you tried to solve. To kill existing mold, our technicians use professional-grade treatment. To prevent mold from returning to the surface, they also use an inhibitor.

7. What Tools Are Needed To Remove Mold From Walls?
It is a good idea to get all the necessary supplies if you’re still considering removing mold from basement walls. This list will help you get organized.

Safety Equipment: N95 respirator and rubber gloves, safety glasses, goggles, or goggles, as well as a fan to ventilate.
Cleaning Tools: Use your chosen cleaning solution, paintbrushes (to use the solution), a scrubbrush, rags and 6-mil trash bags. A shop-vac, plastic sheets, tape, and a shop-vac are all good options.

You can reduce the risk of contamination in your home by taking extra safety precautions. Mold Remediation is able to help you ensure that the mold is properly removed. Mold Remediation can help you determine the type of mold in your basement and how deep it has penetrated into the walls. We will also recommend the best removal strategy. Call 911 Restoration of Mesa today for more information about our basement mold removal services.