Removing Indoor Mold

Mold should be removed as soon as it appears.

1. Persons removing mold should be free of symptoms and allergies.
2. Quality respirators and rubber gloves should always be worn.
3. The mold-affected area should be thoroughly dried.
4. Any sponges or rags used to remove mold should be disposed of.
5. If the mold returns quickly or spreads, it may indicate an underlying problem such as a leak. Any underlying water problems must be fixed to successfully eliminate mold problems. If mold contamination is extensive, a professional remediation company should be consulted.

NOTE: The EPA had concluded that bleach does not effectively eliminate mold.

Bleach may clean mold off a surface, but it does not kill spores or penetrate porous materials where mold hides. For safe and effective killing of mold, only EPA approved, environmentally safe, biodegradable cleaners should be used. Additionally, it is always best to force dry the area after applying anything wet. Finally, a proven  product specifically designed to prevent the return of the mold, should be used to complete the remediation process.

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Who should do the cleanup?
One consideration is the size of the mold problem. If the moldy area is less than 10 square feet (roughly a 3 ft. by 3 ft. patch), in most cases, you can handle the job yourself by following the guidelines listed above. However, if there has been extensive water damage and/or mold growth in excess of 10 square feet, you should consider hiring a Certified mold remediation contractor.

If you suspect that the your heating/ventilation/air-conditioning (HVAC) system may be contaminated with mold, consult the EPA's guide “Should You Have the Air Ducts in Your Home Cleaned?” before taking further action. Do not run the HVAC system if you know or suspect that it is contaminated with mold - it could spread the mold throughout the entire home or building.

There is no way to eliminate all molds and mold spores in your home.
The only way to control indoor mold growth is to control the moisture. If mold is a problem in your home or building, you must clean up the mold and eliminate the moisture sources.

Remember the Golden Rule of Mold:
“Control The Moisture, Control The Mold”