Mould on walls is a common issue that many homeowners face, especially in areas with high humidity. If left untreated, mould can cause damage to your property, worsen health conditions such as allergies and asthma, and create an unsightly appearance in your home. Getting rid of mould permanently may seem challenging, but with the right approach, you can effectively eliminate mould and prevent it from coming back.
In this guide, we’ll cover the steps to remove mould from walls, why it forms, and how to keep your home mould-free for good. For those living in humid areas, professional Mould Removal in Gold Coast can also be a valuable service to ensure that mould is completely eradicated and prevented from returning.
Why Does Mould Form on Walls?
Mould thrives in damp, humid environments, and it often forms in areas with poor ventilation and moisture buildup. Common causes of mould growth on walls include:
- High Humidity: Humidity levels above 60% create an ideal environment for mould growth.
- Condensation: When warm air meets cold surfaces (such as exterior walls), condensation can form, leading to moisture buildup.
- Leaks: Leaky pipes, roofs, or windows can introduce water to your walls, causing mould to thrive.
- Poor Ventilation: Rooms without proper airflow, such as bathrooms and basements, are prone to mould because moisture cannot escape.
- Flooding: Water damage from flooding can lead to mould growth if the area isn’t dried thoroughly.
Addressing these underlying causes is crucial to preventing mould from returning after you clean it up.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Mould
Before you begin, ensure you take safety precautions to protect yourself from mould spores. Wear gloves, goggles, and a face mask to avoid inhaling or touching the mould.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
You will need the following materials to remove mould from your walls:
- White vinegar or bleach: Vinegar is a natural mould killer, while bleach is effective for disinfecting and removing mould stains.
- Water: To dilute cleaning agents and rinse surfaces.
- Spray bottle: For applying the cleaning solution.
- Scrub brush or sponge: To scrub the mould off the walls.
- Microfiber cloth or towel: For wiping down the walls after cleaning.
- Anti-mould paint or primer: To prevent future mould growth.
Step 2: Identify and Contain the Mould
Before removing mould, identify the affected areas. Mould can appear as black, green, or white spots on walls, especially in damp areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
If the mould covers a large area (more than 10 square feet), consider hiring a professional to handle the job, as extensive mould growth may require specialized equipment and expertise.
For smaller areas, you can proceed with cleaning. If the mould is concentrated in one area, cover nearby furniture and floors with plastic sheeting to prevent mould spores from spreading during the cleaning process.
Step 3: Apply a Cleaning Solution
There are different solutions you can use to kill and remove mould. The two most effective options are:
- White Vinegar: White vinegar is highly effective for killing up to 80% of mould species. It’s non-toxic and safe to use around pets and children.
- How to use: Pour undiluted white vinegar into a spray bottle. Spray it directly onto the mouldy areas of the wall. Let it sit for at least one hour to allow the vinegar to penetrate and kill the mould.
- Bleach and Water Solution: Bleach is a strong disinfectant that can remove mould and lighten any stains left behind. However, bleach should only be used in well-ventilated areas and is not recommended for porous surfaces like wood or drywall.
- How to use: Mix one cup of bleach with one gallon of water. Pour the solution into a spray bottle and apply it to the affected area. Allow it to sit for 15-20 minutes before scrubbing.
Step 4: Scrub the Mould Away
After letting the cleaning solution sit, use a scrub brush or sponge to scrub the mould off the walls. Focus on the mouldy spots and ensure you remove all visible traces of mould. For stubborn stains, you may need to reapply the cleaning solution and scrub again.
If the mould has penetrated deep into the wall or drywall, it may not be enough to clean the surface. In these cases, you may need to cut out and replace sections of the drywall to eliminate mould.
Step 5: Wipe Down the Walls
Once you’ve scrubbed off the mould, use a clean cloth or towel to wipe down the walls. Remove any remaining moisture and cleaning solution to ensure the area dries completely. You can also open windows or use a fan to speed up the drying process.
Step 6: Apply Anti-Mould Paint or Primer
To prevent mould from returning, consider applying an anti-mould paint or primer to the cleaned area. These products are designed to resist mould growth and protect your walls from future moisture issues.
If you’re repainting the area, choose a paint that has mould-resistant properties. This added layer of protection can be especially useful in high-humidity areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
How to Prevent Mould from Returning
Cleaning mould off your walls is only part of the solution. To prevent mould from returning, you need to address the underlying causes of moisture and humidity. Here are some effective strategies to keep your home mould-free:
1. Improve Ventilation
Poor ventilation is a major cause of mould growth. Ensure that rooms like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements have adequate airflow. Install exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to reduce moisture buildup, and open windows when possible to allow fresh air to circulate.
2. Control Humidity Levels
Keep indoor humidity levels below 60% to prevent mould growth. You can monitor humidity with a hygrometer, a small device that measures moisture levels in the air. If your home has high humidity, use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture, especially in damp areas like basements and laundry rooms.
3. Fix Leaks
Check your home for any leaks in the roof, pipes, windows, or doors. Even a small leak can introduce enough moisture to encourage mould growth. Fix leaks as soon as they are detected to avoid water damage and mould problems.
4. Insulate Cold Surfaces
Condensation occurs when warm air meets cold surfaces, such as walls, windows, or pipes. This can lead to moisture buildup and mould formation. To prevent this, insulate walls and windows to keep them from getting too cold and causing condensation.
5. Dry Wet Areas Immediately
Mould needs moisture to grow, so it’s important to dry any wet areas as quickly as possible. Wipe down bathroom walls and floors after showers, and clean up any water spills immediately. If your home has experienced flooding, dry the area thoroughly within 24-48 hours to prevent mould growth.
Conclusion
Getting rid of mould on walls permanently requires a combination of cleaning and prevention. By following above the steps outlined above, you can effectively remove mould from your walls and keep it from coming back. Addressing the root causes of mould such as high humidity, poor ventilation, and leaks is crucial to maintaining a mould-free home. With the right approach, you can enjoy a healthier, cleaner living environment without the worry of mould returning.