For long term issues like mold caused by attic condensation the mold may have started growing a long time ago.
Water damaged walls mold.
If you have health concerns consult a health professional before starting cleanup.
Next mix 1 cup of chlorine bleach with a bucket of warm water.
Mold on walls and baseboards.
Then between 18 and 21 days after the initial water damage the growth becomes visible as it spreads across the structure.
If you don t see signs of mold but you can smell it it may be hidden in your walls.
A musty smell is a good indicator that mold is growing in your home.
Leave it out until you have finished cleaning inside.
Wipe down the walls with a rag and let them dry.
Control indoor moisture to prevent mold.
The worst infestations usually occur in damp crawlspaces in attics and walls where water has leaked in from the outside and in basements with poor foundation drainage.
If the water and or mold damage was caused by sewage or other contaminated water then call in a professional who has experience cleaning and fixing buildings damaged by contaminated water.
If the water damage inside the walls persists mold will show signs on the surface.
Wall cavities affected by water damage are vulnerable to mold growth which also has a pungent musty odor.
Between the third and the twelfth day the spores begin to colonize within the structure.
For instance put down tile or linoleum flooring instead of carpet in rooms with high humidity or where spills are common like kitchens bathrooms and laundry rooms.
In addition to the damage that water causes it can encourage the growth of mold on walls and floors where it s visible and in ductwork attics and crawlspaces where you might not notice it.
In the first two days after water damage occurs mold begins its initial germination and growth.
Weather the water damage is the result of a storm surge or a leaky faucet when water is trapped behind walls or paneling the elements needed for mold growth will most likely be present.
The sun kills mold.
The walls and floors will need to be cleaned first.
It is best to take action at this time to mitigate the damage and prevent mold growth from occuring.
The smell of mold feels earthy like rotting leaves or decaying wood in a dense damp forest.
Mold growth normally appears in areas with excess moisture such as bathrooms kitchens.
If there is a strong musty smell near a certain area of your wall there could be a water leak or mold growth behind it.
A musty odor is a sign that mold may be present.
When repairing water damaged rooms consider making improvements to help prevent or at least minimize future damage and mold growth.
Mold can cause damage and lead to health problems so deal with it quickly.
The key to stopping mold and mildew is controlling dampness.
Put on your ventilator mask and rubber gloves.
