Mold can be an unsightly problem in many homes, triggering asthma, allergies, and other bothersome symptoms. Black mold contains toxic spores that need to be removed from the home carefully to ensure no one is harmed. To properly eliminate mold from walls you need to first identify the type of mold, then work to thoroughly remove the mold.
Identify the Mold
Black mold is extremely toxic and can cause a variety of health problems. This particular type of mold thrives in dark and moist areas. Potentially dangerous molds often give off an odor. If you suspect that you have dangerous mold in your home, call a mold inspector so he or she can identify and help isolate the type of mold.
Remove Moisture Sources
Black mold occurs in moist, humid areas. While black mold can grow in obvious situations like a water leak or flooding, it can also thrive where there are slow leaks or areas with high humidity. If you live in a humid area, purchase a dehumidifier to balance the humidity levels in the home. After water leaks or floods, large fans can help to dry out the home and reduce the ability for black mold to grow.
Seal the Room
Before you begin removing the black mold from the walls, seal the doorways, vents, and other openings of the room with plastic drop cloths or sheets. Use tape, preferably duct tape, to adequately seal the plastic, ensuring that black mold dust and spores cannot spread to other areas of your home.
Removing Black Mold
When cleaning and removing black mold, be sure to wear a mask, use rubber gloves, and wear eye protection to protect yourself from any harmful or toxic mold spores. Clean away any visible black mold using soap and a damp sponge. If the black mold is dry, lightly mist the area with water to help prevent the mold spores from spreading. Once you have cleaned the black mold from the walls, spray a disinfectant on the area to kill any remaining mold spores. While many people use a bleach and water solution to disinfect, it often causes discoloration of the walls or flooring. Be sure to allow the wall to dry completely after it has been disinfected.
Disposing of Black Mold
If you find any black mold on drywall that has not been painted, it needs to be removed, placed into a large plastic bag, and disposed of immediately. After you have cleaned and disinfected the walls, place any mold, sponges, or other materials that may have come into contact with the moldy areas into thick, heavy-duty plastic bags such as garbage bags. Try not to carry these bags through the home as they can potentially spread the harmful black mold spores. It is best to place these bags outside through an open window or nearby door, avoiding exposing the black mold to the rest of the home.