Almost all homes will have some mold spores.
These spores need little more
than a food source and moisture to grow on various surfaces in your home. The key
is to remove mold before it spreads and becomes a bigger problem.
Left unchecked, it can rot wood surfaces and cause indoor pollutants that can
lead to health issues.
Before you get rid of the mold, you'll need to eliminate any
moisture issues at the source.
Indoors, repair any plumbing leaks and install
exhaust fans in bathrooms, the kitchen and laundry room.
Be sure your gutters and downspouts are clear and that water is properly
draining away from your home's foundation.
Running a dehumidifier to
reduce the overall moisture level in your home can also keep mold from
growing. Before getting rid of mold buildup, always wear protective clothing,
rubber gloves, a mask and goggles. Mold gives off microscopic spores that can
come in contact with your eyes, skin and be inhaled. Hard surfaces such as tile,
window sills, and cabinets can be cleaned with detergent then dried completely
with a rag. There are detergents specially
formulated with mold-killing ingredients that can help speed the job. Just follow
the manufacturer's instructions for the proper application. When done, dispose of
the rags in a sealed garbage bag, and immediately wash your clothes in a
separate laundry load. For more porous surfaces, like drywall, use a rag so you
don't damage the surface with more abrasive cleaners. You can also create an
effective mold killing solution with some common household items. Undiluted
white vinegar can be sprayed onto hard surfaces in kitchens and baths. A bleach
solution is also an option. Dilute the bleach with water as directed by the
manufacturer. Ammonia also works. Mix a 50/50 solution and spray on the surface.
Wait 2 to 3 hours and rinse.
However, never mix ammonia with bleach or other
cleaning products. This will create toxic and dangerous fumes.
On exterior surfaces
you can apply a 1:10 solution of bleach and water to the surface. Allow 10
to 20 minutes and rinse with a garden hose.
Another option is to mix a TSP solution according to the product's instructions
and scrub the area with a stiff bristled brush and rinse.
If you have a large
exterior mold area, use a pressure washer to speed the job.
For more detailed
information about this and many other projects, check out the DIY projects and
ideas section of homedepot.com, or talk to one of our store associates.