Attic Mold Removal

Mold is a fungal growth that is often observed in humid, damp and enclosed spaces. Dark corners, basements and even attics are some favorite habitats of mold fungi. The entire dark patch that you see on surfaces such as walls, floors and ceilings is made up of fungi that are multicellular in nature and are called Hypha. Some common fungi that are termed as mold include, Acremonium, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Mucor, Rhizopus, Stachybotrys, Penicillium, and Trichoderma.

There are several reasons for removing mold from attic, apart from the fact that mold growth looks quite ugly. Firstly, mold that grows on wooden surfaces, especially in the attic is dangerous for wood, as consistent growth of mold on the surface is bound to result in severe weakening of the entire surface. Most attics have exposed wooden surfaces, which in itself is an open invitation for mold. On the whole, persistent invasion of mold deteriorates the quality and safety of the house in the long run and also the monetary value of the house. The second reason why a person must occasionally remove attic mold is for the sake of one's health. Mold, as mentioned above, is nothing but fungi. This kind of fungi, is basically toxic in nature and also tends to produce toxic secretion as it goes on decomposing organic matter that comes in contact with it.

Methods of Removing Mold from Attic

There are several different ways in which you can remove mold from your attic. Simple scrubbing, to complex chemical processes can be deployed in order to eliminate the growth of mold. Here's what you can do.

Method #1
The first step in mold removal process is a simple survey. Many property assessors and building contractors have pointed out the fact that attic mold is never noticed by a majority of homeowners, until it is pointed out by the building inspector or assessors, when the property is being sold or is being remodeled. Hence, take a torch and go through your entire attic. Some common places where you might find mold, include beam joints, pipeline undersides, corners, etc. When it comes to mold growth in attics, it is often concluded that less ventilation and less use contribute to mold growth.

Method #2
There can be some potential causes of attic mold growth. For example a slightly seeping pipeline, a small crack in the roof, or a small opening near the window seal. Whatever it might be, such causes contribute to a genuine increase in the level of humidity and moisture on wooden surfaces. Hence, the first thing that one must do is resolve such problems. Sealing off pipelines and window sills with some cement or sealing clay will do.

Method #3
The next step is relatively easy, as all you have to do is take up an antifungal solution and mix it with water. You will get some mold removal solution in any supermarket or hardware store. If you need a natural antifungal solution, add castor oil to the solution. Next, take a sponge and wipe down the entire area and wait for 10 minutes. Then wash the mold covered surface. Take paint remover knife or a putty knife and scrub off the entire mold. You may need to do this process more than once, till the entire infested surface is cleared off. You may also prepare another solution with bleach and water and wash down the entire area. Drying off the surface with a blower or a reverse action vacuum cleaner, or even a simple cloth is absolutely necessary. Then, you may also apply mild wood polish or a wood preserving solution to the wooden surfaces.

Method #4
This process will yield better results if done on a dry summer day. However, during the rest of the year when the weather is quite mold-friendly, you will have to take up some other preventive measures. Scraping small back spots just with a putty knife, airing the attic, checking and sealing off water leakages and using dehumidifiers are some simple measures that you can take up.

Though the process of attic mold removal is quite a simple one, curbing the growth can become quite a headache. Clearing the attic of any humidity by airing it at regular intervals will help you prevent the growth of attic mold. Remember, consistent mold growth prevention and removal definitely boots up the quality and safety of your home.