Mold is a scary four-letter word. It brings thoughts of toxic areas, a dirty home, or rotten bard. It can grow in the most random of places, and the green or black fuzz releases toxic spores that contaminate your air quality. It grows quickly and silently, and unless you know what you’re looking for, you may not realize how serious of a problem it is until it has caused serious consequences for your home and health. 

As it relates to windows, mold commonly grows along window sills and against windowpanes as condensation or moisture in the air can collect in the corners or cracks. In this post, we’re going to discuss mold remediation, specifically as it relates to how to get rid of mold on windows. 

Windows are vulnerable to black mold growth. They separate the inside of your property from the outside environment, and the different temperatures that exist between the two can create condensation. You can see this effect when extreme temperature changes cause fogging or create water droplets. Once common mistake many people make is that they cover their windows with heavy drapes or shades. This darkness accelerates mold growth. It is more common in the winter when the cold from outside clashes with the heat inside. Additionally, if your windows are dusty and dirty, this can also feed mold spores and causes rapid growth.

Organic material is a superbard for mold spores. Potted plants around the house release excess water into the air and increase the humidity, and dirt particles can travel onto windowsills and carry the nutrients mold spores need to thrive. The combination of excess moisture in the air, shaded areas or darkness, and bard for growth will lead to mold growth that needs to be addressed.

Mold can grow in the bathroom, in the basement, in insulation or drywall that has gotten wet, or under a sink where a leak occurred. When it comes to windows, don’t be alarmed if you think you see mold in the window frames or window sills – it’s quite common.  In order to address instances of mold, you need to first locate the source and then move to clean it. Proper mold remediation will prevent additional mold growth.

1. Find the source of the mold: Mold needs moisture, which is commonly found in air around a window frame. Rain can cause leaks through the seals, or the window may have been left open to allow water in. Condensation may build on any of the windows in the house, so be sure to look in the room for signs of mold. If mold is growing in the windows of your bathroom, you may have a problem with ventilation. If you have heavy curtains hanging, be sure to open them periodically and let the air circulate through the area.
2. Remove and replace damaged windows: If the reason for the mold is a faulty window, you will want to have it repaired or replaced. If you don’t stop the source of the growth, it will continue after you have attempted to remove and clean the noticeable colony. When replacing a window, be sure to have all wet framing or insulation completely removed. Any connecting framing that was exposed or wet also needs to be completely dry before installation. Be sure to look for any leaks around the window that needs to be repaired.
3. Check for other water sources: Your windows may not have obvious leaks, but you could have excess water being routed through your window frames because of a backup on the roof or in the gutter system. Carefully cleaning out your gutters during each season can prevent debris and leaves from building a dam in the gutter that back flows water down through your window frames. If you see signs of roofing damage or evidence of leaks, have them repaired as well.

   

4. Redirect the water flow away from your house: Homeowners with basements tend to find mold and mildew growing around the lowest windows in the space. The windows that are closest to the ground take the brunt of the water flow, putting pressure on the seals around the window or coming through the window itself. There is also a lot more condensation on these windows during the winter. Have water diverted away from the bottom of the house and these windows to reduce the growth of mold.
5. Reduce moisture in the bathroom: Bathrooms have a lot of humidity and moisture, creating a breeding ground for a colony of black mold. When taking a shower, have the exhaust fan running to put the moisture out of the room. When possible, leave a window and the door open after you are finished to let the steam dissipate into the hallway or other areas of the house. You can always use a small portable fan on the counter or floor to circulate the air while you are bathing.

   

There are several natural mold remediation products on the market that can be used to clean off mold, and you may already have a few things around the house that will do the job. Keep in mind that breathing in chemical cleaning agents can be damaging to your lungs. It may be wise to wear a mask to avoid taking in all the particles. As you consider the following products, remember that you also need to kill the root source of mold if your cleaning is going to be effective.

• Bleach is good for removing mildew staining, but it won’t penetrate through the material to kill the mold spores. This makes it possible for the mold to reoccur.
• White vinegar is an acidic liquid that has been effective at both killing mold spores and removing discoloration. This is a popular alternative to bleach. However, the smell is a bit bothersome for some people.
• Borax can be used to clean off the mold, though it may require some scrubbing for it to work. Letting the borax sit on the windowsill or on the pane until it completely dries can be more effective in killing deeply planted mold spores.
• Tea tree oil is considered a natural fungicide. You will need to dilute the tea tree oil with water to apply on the window, spraying it thoroughly and letting it soak for a while. A good ratio of the essential oil is one teaspoon per cup of water. This is an excellent prevention against mold as well.

Mold can be several colors, such as green, black, or brown, but you don’t have to see the colony of growth to feel the effects of its presence. Black mold is considered one of the most toxic fungi, causing devastating health concerns when left unaddressed.

Many people are sensitive to mold, and continual exposure may create respiratory concerns or skin reactions. Those with asthma or allergies tend to have more severe side effects, such as persistent wheezing, runny nose, watery eyes, nagging cough, and shortness of breath. The dangerous nature of mold exposure should encourage you to seek the professional help of a local mold remediation company, as respirators and protective gear may need to be used while removing the mold. Additionally, improper cleaning methods may leave behind remnants of mold or even make the problem worse if spores travel throughout the building.

Unless you are vigilant and experienced in rooting out the source of the mold, your cleaning solution may only be a temporary fix. Don’t let a minor problem turn into something more severe. If you aren’t confident that you can take care of the mold problem yourself, call the experts at Mold Remediation to assess your home and determine the right course of treatment.

Mold is a fungus that can grow inside your house and wreak havoc on your air quality. It may grow subtly, without you noticing the damage it is doing until a serious situation has occurred. Mold can grow rapidly, making it harder to contain the spread of the toxic spores. However, if you know what causes mold and how to recognize some of the tell-tale signs of a mold problem, there are several things you can do to naturally get rid of mold in your home.

Mold is a generic term for several variations of fungi, which is what you may have found growing on old leftovers in the refrigerator or along the siding of the house. There are countless species of mold that are able to grow either outdoors or indoors. Many people also recognize mold in the form of mildew, through dark smelly basements or stained, stinky carpets from a water leak. Not all types of molds are harmful, as blue cheese and penicillin have crucial fungi components.

Active mold growth occurs when there is excessive moisture in the air. Because this condition can be found in almost any environment, there is the potential for mold spores to be found everywhere. It could be on visible surfaces in the bathroom, lurking under the carpet, or hiding behind drywall. Where you find a lot of bacteria, organic compounds, airborne chemicals, or dust mites, there is also a greater likelihood that you may find mold growing. More than just a terrible odor and an unattractive stain on walls or ceiling tiles, mold spores are dangerous to both human and animal health.

You may start to smell mold or mildew before you actually see visible signs of growth. If a room has had water damage or humidity, you may start to notice a smell coming up from the carpet or out of the walls. Common signs include spots of brown, green, or black along the area where the water damage occurred, but you may also have a cluster of growth occurring around air vents or near dark spaces that aren’t as easy to find. If your paint, ceiling tiles, or drywall is bubbling and cracking, especially in an area where you know a leak or other moisture contact occurred, it could indicate growth on the inside of the walls. You can also have an air quality or mold exposure test conducted in your home to evaluate the air for the presence of harmful spores.

For minor mold problems, there are some things you can try at home to take care of the problem. Prevention is the best way to handle the possibility of mold growth. Under the right conditions, toxic black mold can start to grow and multiply into a colony in as little as 24 to 48 hours. You may not see it, as mold thrives in humid, dark, damp places. Your starting places for prevention should be the kitchen, the bathroom, and the basement. Clean surfaces often and limit how much moisture can build up in the space. Keep the grout in these areas clean, repair any leaks, and wipe down counters or showers after use.

Household cleaners and disinfectants can be effective against preventing mold growth, and there are several commercial products available that can deal with existing growth. However, some people prefer to avoid adding more harsh chemical toxins to their living environment. As an alternative, you can use the following green household cleaners as a way to naturally get rid of mold.

1. Hydrogen Peroxide

Swan DASP Hydrogen Peroxide Topical, 32 Ounces, Pack of 4

This agent is used as an antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial solution. It is a common household product, found in many medicine cabinets for its effective use in these areas. It can also be used effectively against mold. As a solution, it is mild enough to be used on bathroom tubs or fixtures, in the kitchen on appliances or counters, and it can be used on some wall surfaces.

To apply, fill a spray bottle with a 3% concentration of hydrogen peroxide and saturate an area covered with mold (test in an inconspicuous place first). Leave it to sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing the area to remove the stains. Wipe it dry once it’s clean.

2. Baking Soda

ARM & HAMMER Pure Baking Soda 8 oz (Pack of 6)

You can use baking soda for more than absorbing fridge odors. It is safe to be used around family members and pets, and it is effective in preventing black mold growth and removing it. You should add one-quarter tablespoon to a spray bottle filled with warm water. Shake the bottle until the substance has dissolved. Spray down the mold area and use a scrub brush to thoroughly clean the surface. Rinse the surface with water to help remove any leftover residue and baking soda. After it is clean, spray the surface with the solution but let it air dry. This can kill leftover spores and prevent new growth.

3. Vinegar

Lucy’s Family Owned – Natural Distilled White Vinegar, 1 Gallon (128 oz) – 5% Acidity

White vinegar, though it has a strong, unpleasant odor, is a mildly acidic liquid that is effective for deodorizing, cleaning, and disinfecting. It is successful in killing about 82% of various mold species, including dangerous black mold. You can use vinegar on both non-porous and porous surfaces, and the odor fades quickly after use.

Don’t add water when pouring vinegar into a spray bottle. This will weaken the strength of the vinegar. Spray the moldy surface and let it sit for an hour. A mild mold problem should wipe clean with water, then let the area air dry. The smell will dissipate after just a few hours.

4. Lemon Juice

Realemon Lemon Juice, 48-Ounce Bottles (Pack of 4)

For a fresh, citrus burst of cleaning, try lemons against mold growth. This fruit is a natural stain removed, bleach, antiseptic, cleaner, and deodorizer. There is a high concentration of acid in lemons, which makes it possible for the juice to break down mold spores. It is best if you juice the lemons for maximum potency, and you need enough juice to treat the size of the area with the mold. Three to five lemons may be enough. Apply the juice to the moldy area and let it soak for five minutes. Use a damp towel to wipe off the surface, and if the stain persists, reapply the juice, scrub the area, and let it soak again.

5. Essential Oils

MAYJAM Tea Tree Essential Oil 100ML/3.38FL.OZ Pure Premium Quality Essential Oils for Diffusers Aromatherapy Massage with Glass Dropper

Essentials oils have been used for aromatherapy purposes in many households, both in skin application and through the use of diffusers. These compounds are able to do much more, especially as cleaning applications. Tea tree oil is a pungent aroma that is powerful as an antiseptic, insect repellant, and deodorizer. This is also one of the best and safest natural ways of removing black mold. The oil is a natural fungicide that stops and prevents mold growth but also helps with the removal.

Because of its strength, mix just one teaspoon of tea tree oil into a spray bottle with one cup of water. You will need to shake the bottle vigorously to help blend the oil and water. Thoroughly spray the moldy area, then let it sit and dry for about an hour. Take a dry towel or microfiber cloth and wipe down the surface. Some people find essential oils irritating to the skin, so you may want to wear gloves.

Final Thoughts

Toxic mold can pose serious health consequences. If mold has been found in your home, it’s important to have it checked out and remediated immediately. Severe mold should be properly remediated by licensed and experienced professionals.  

Mold is a natural part of nearly every environment. Spores travel freely through the air and settle on surfaces. They can also penetrate porous walls, carpeting and upholstery. Of course, that doesn’t mean you should encourage them to take up permanent residence in your home. Luckily, most types of mold are relatively harmless. Black mold is one of the more troublesome types of mold widely found in homes, and it causes concern among many property owners who see its telltale patchy, black appearance on their walls.

Learn more about black mold, how it establishes itself on walls and how you can safely and permanently eliminate it.

Many types of mold are black or dark in color. However, most people refer to a particular strain, known as Stachybotrys chartarum, when they use the term. It can be several dark colors but usually appears black. Many people describe this mold as gelatinous. Because of its high moisture content, it often seems to have a slimy layer coating it. When it dries out, black mold can take on a pale or powdery appearance.

Despite numerous anecdotal reports that S. chartarum causes serious health problems, the available scientific evidence supports few of them. That doesn’t mean you want to let it grow freely within your home or office. On the contrary, you should take steps to discourage any mold growth on indoor and outdoor surfaces.

Like other forms of mold that multiply with microscopic spores, S. chartarum is particularly well suited to infiltrate porous surfaces, like those found in drywall, wood and carpeting. Unlike some others, S. chartarum needs a constant supply of water to survive. High humidity levels or condensation are not enough to sustain black mold’s active growth, although it can go dormant in dry conditions and revive when adequate amounts of water return.

Black mold is most commonly found on materials with high amounts of cellulose, such as paper, drywall and fiberboard, which is why it often grows on walls. Spores settle onto the surface and get embedded in the minute openings. When exposed to a steady water supply, such as a leaking pipe or foundation leak, they begin to consume the sugars and starch found in the cellulose.

Once the black mold is actively growing, it begins to reproduce and colonize the surface. It takes S. chartarum roughly eight to 12 days to establish itself on a surface. However, once it does, it usually outcompetes any other molds present as long as the water supply is maintained.

Preventing mold from establishing itself is far preferable to having to undertake a mold remediation project. Removing moisture is one of the best ways to prevent an excess of mold growth. Because black mold is common in warm, moist areas, basements, attics and crawl spaces are likely targets.

Many mold species look similar and several can be easily confused for S. chartarum. If there is mold in your home that you suspect might be black mold, have it tested to determine the species definitively. You can then decide on the best course of action for mold removal.

Mold is a serious topic, and people have lots of questions about how to remove it safely. Here are a few of the most common ones we hear, along with our answers to them. Remember that moldremdiation.io is an excellent resource for more information about black mold and proper mold remediation techniques.

1) What Kills Black Mold on Walls?

Contrary to popular belief, merely drying out the area where S. chartarum is present is not enough to kill the mold. Instead, it must be treated and removed. In many cases, that means treatment with a special cleaning solution and a mold inhibitor. However, severe mold growth may require larger demolition projects to remove drywall and even wooden studs in extreme situations.

Several products effectively kill S. chartarum. Standard household bleach is probably the most commonly used, especially when homeowners undertake remediation efforts. Unfortunately, it can cause respiratory system and skin irritation and may be harmful if there is not adequate ventilation in the treatment area. It is not the only option, however.

For minor infestations, a few common household cleaners may be sufficient. Vinegar is a favorite mold treatment, although it may not penetrate deeply into porous wall surfaces. Hydrogen peroxide is also widely used to kill many different types of mold, including S. chartarum. The most effective solution will be a commercial mold retardant and growth inhibitor. This is the method used by our mold remediation professionals at Mold Remediation.

2) Can I Remove Black Mold From Walls Myself?

Many homeowners attempt to perform mold remediation themselves. According to the EPA, this is probably safe for smaller patches of mold growth. However, the agency cautions against tackling larger areas of more than 10 square feet. In those cases, a professional should be called in for the safest and most effective solution.

The treatment area must be sealed off from adjacent rooms to eliminate the spread of spores. Proper ventilation and airflow systems should also be used and debris and contaminated materials should be removed directly to an outside area instead of carrying them through the house to reduce contamination.

3) How Do You Get Rid of Mold on Walls Permanently?

The best solution for permanent mold removal is to address the underlying problem allowing moisture to accumulate. This can vary depending on where in your home the mold is growing and what is fueling it. A few of the most effective methods to consider when trying to keep mold from returning include:

• Take steps to fix any leaks that are causing water to pool under cabinets or in the walls.
• Patch, prime and seal basement walls to avoid water infiltration through the foundation. 
• Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the affected areas.
• Install ventilation fans to increase air circulation in bathrooms. 
• Apply mold inhibitors to areas where mold has previously been detected.
• Perform regular inspections of areas in your home that are prone to high moisture levels. 

4) Can Mold on Walls Make You Sick?

This is a strongly contested debate. While there is no substantial evidence that normal levels of mold cause serious illness, most medical experts agree that an overgrowth of mold or prolonged exposure to it in the environment can lead to adverse health consequences. In most instances, it is primarily associated with an increase in respiratory symptoms like sneezing, coughing and wheezing. It may also cause rashes, fatigue and hePLEASEDELETEches, and exacerbate allergies and asthma.

Mycotoxicosis, or mold poisoning, occurs after prolonged or extreme exposure to the poisonous byproducts of black mold known as mycotoxins. Although most of the negative effects of these chemicals result from consuming contaminated bard, this study showed that very high levels of mycotoxins produced by S. chartarum led to serious health complications for residents in contaminated buildings. For those reasons, mold growth should be prevented as much as possible and treated as soon as you notice an infestation.

5) Is It Safe To Sleep in a Room With Mold on the Wall?

Sleeping in a room with mold actively growing on the walls is not a good idea. In addition to typical mold exposure symptoms such as coughing and sneezing, it may interfere with your ability to get a good night’s sleep. That can lead to sleep deprivation and further aggravate any symptoms or underlying health conditions. It is not advisable to leave mold growing on walls in bedrooms. Because you spend extended periods in the same room while sleeping, any exposure levels are automatically prolonged.

Black mold in a home should be addressed quickly and correctly. At Mold Remediation, we have the latest technology to remove severe mold infestations properly. Additionally, our mold remediation professionals know the best methods for containment and removal of mold spores so they do not contaminate surrounding areas during removal. Contact us today to learn more about our mold removal services.

Mold accumulation is a serious concern for anyone who owns a building, as it can impact the indoor air quality and the safety and comfort of occupants. It’s important for you to understand what mold is and be prepared to address its growth within your home or business.

So, let’s get straight to it – do you really need mold remediation?

When it comes to being a responsible real estate owner, property maintenance and upkeep are extremely important. Oversight ranges from making sure that the grounds or lawns are regularly trimmed to making sure that certain systems, like ventilation, heating and air filtration, are functional. Another important aspect of property care is making sure that there are no maintenance issues that can make the building an unsafe place to be. Certain recurring problems can negatively affect a home or commercial building, such as a pest infestation or the presence of mold. 

Before you can address mold growth, you should know what it is and what it isn’t. The term “mold” refers to a range of fungi that develop on wet or moist surfaces. In nature, mold serves an important function, as it breaks down dead organic matter.

Mold, which is sometimes called mildew, reproduces through microscopic spores that are airborne and eventually settle on surfaces. Although it typically appears as a discoloring, fuzzy substance, it exists in various forms that require moisture as well as an organic bard source to survive and grow. It becomes visible once several colonies have formed. The growth and spread of fungi are dependent on several factors:

• Available moisture: Mold needs water.
• Temperature: Fungi thrive in warmer environments.
• Ventilation: Airtight containment slows the formation of fungus.
• Light: Different fungi variants respond differently to light.
• Nutrients: Salt and sugar are two nutrients that various fungi feed on.
• Acidity: Most fungi thrive in surroundings that are less alkaline and more acidic.

Mold is generally a nuisance when it forms on bards. However, its formation on building surfaces can be still more problematic, especially if occupants have allergic sensitivities to mold spores, or if mold-produced toxic compounds known as mycotoxins are inhaled or ingested.

Mold spores are everywhere, including the interior of a building. Air currents can carry them to every part of a structure. Indoor mold or mildew usually exists in amounts that do not affect most healthy people; however, significant growth indicates the presence of moisture and a bard source. Significant moisture can arise due to a number of reasons:

• Water damage from flooding, burst pipes, outdoor exposure or the dousing of a fire
• Sustained moist conditions, usually in excess of 48 hours
• Leaky roofs, windows or pipes
• Condensation from HVAC systems

Many of the materials used to build structures can sustain the development of mildew, acting as a bard source:

• Wood, including plywood, cabinetry, framing and flooring
• Drywall
• Concrete
• Carpet, carpet pads, rugs, etc.

Other interior surfaces and substances are favorable to the development of mold, including dust, paper, cardboard, fabrics, soap and even skin cells.

Certain parts of a building tend to be conducive to the growth of mildew because of a combination of water, bard, temperature and airtightness:

• HVAC systems
• Crawl spaces, basements and attics lacking vapor barriers
• Bathrooms, particularly showers, tiles and under sinks
• Kitchens, near tiles and under sinks
• Walls

Mold colonies may grow between 32 and 95 degrees F (0 and 35 degrees C), but they tend to flourish between 77 and 86 degrees F (25 to 30 degrees C).

When enough colonies form on a visible surface, you can usually recognize the mold growth by sight. Often it grows in places that are hidden from view, but the evidence of water damage or a musty odor may alert you to its presence. A person with an allergy to mildew may experience symptoms indicating that there is a significant accumulation. Physical reactions to inhalation or ingestion of mycotoxins may also indicate that your home or office has a mold problem. Exposure to these fungi may present a number of symptoms:

• Runny nose/nasal congestion
• Difficulty breathing, wheezing or tightness of chest
• Coughing
• Sneezing fits
• Throat irritation
• Mycosis (fungal infection)

While sight and smell may indicate mold buildup, a professional assessment is necessary to determine the full extent.

In the course of regular cleaning of a home or commercial building, you can use a dilute solution of sodium hypochlorite, otherwise known as liquid beach, to clean mildew. However, this DIY approach is generally not effective for true mold removal, which is best left to a professional contractor. Bleach alone cannot take care of a mold issue for several reasons:

• It is only effective on a non-porous surface; mildew can grow roots in many of the porous surfaces found in a building.
• Chlorine evaporates quickly, making bleach lose its efficacy in killing fungi.
• Some animals and pets are sensitive to the air pollutants in bleach.

Significant mold growth requires remediation, which involves more than simply cleanup. Remediation is a multistep approach that starts with removing the source of fungal growth.

When you suspect significant mold accumulation, it’s best to hire an independent professional inspector who is trained and equipped to determine the full extent of any damage. Look for an inspector with the following characteristics:

• Licensed as a Certified Industrial Hygienist or Council-Certified Indoor Environmental Consultant
• Independent of a mold remediation provider
• Able to provide a detailed report based on laboratory and air samples
• Objective about findings and not promoting a particular company or cleanup solution

The average investigation may run from $200 to $600 and take up to six hours. Be advised that the inspector may cut and remove walls to fully assess the damage. After evaluation, this professional can explain the source of the problem and what level of removal is needed.

Professional mold remediation involves more than just cleanup. It is a complex process that begins with removing the source of the fungal growth, which is often excess moisture or wet conditions. Mold can develop on damp, porous surfaces within one to two days, so prevention is critical. The remediation process includes advanced methods to remove and clean all mildew to restore your house or building to pre-damage conditions, when feasible:

• Microbial removal and remediation
• Cleanup of water damage
• Specialized drying techniques and methods
• Odor control
• Upholstery/fabric cleanup
• HVAC cleaning
• Disposal of debris

Keep in mind that mold seeks to spread throughout an area or building, so a key element of a remediation process is containment. The point of containment is to physically isolate and control the spread of mildew damage. Containing and controlling growth offers certain advantages:

• Reduced property damage
• Lowered costs for repair
• Minimized duration for full restoration
• Minimized interruption to occupancy of the home or commercial building
• No need for temporary relocation

Professional mold remediation teams use specialized equipment to assess work progress and effectiveness, including moisture meters, humidity gauges and cameras. Imagine trying to remediate a serious mold problem yourself or through a traditional cleanup approach, and you will understand why it is impractical.

Mold Remediation requires the use of personal protective equipment worn by technicians, including respirators, gloves, impervious suits and safety goggles. In the United States, mold contamination is categorized according to levels based on the required PPE protection:

1. Level I: Small, isolated sections, usually 10 ft² or less; completed by trained custodial staff
2. Level II Mid-sized, isolated sections, between 10 to 30 ft²; completed by trained custodial staff wearing protection
3. Level III: Large, isolated sections, between 30 to 100 ft²; completed by fully protected pros trained in handling hazardous materials and microbial investigations
4. Level IV: Significant contamination, over 100 ft²; completed by equipped, knowledgeable professionals

Extensive mold growth in your home or business is a serious problem and requires full remediation, as opposed to mere cleanup. A professional mold remediation contractor brings specific knowledge, specialized equipment and the appropriate protective measures to not only fully remove existing mold and the source of its growth, but also stop the spread into unaffected areas of the structure.