Month: October 2023

Mold is a common problem that homeowners have to deal with. It can be unsightly, cause health problems, and negatively impact the structure of your home.

Because of this, it’s essential to find ways to get rid of mold quickly and effectively.

One popular solution many people consider is the use of ammonia. But, does ammonia kill mold? Let’s dig into it.

Does ammonia kill mold?

Ammonia is a commonly used cleaning agent in households. It’s an excellent disinfectant and can be used to clean a variety of surfaces.

However, when it comes to mold removal, ammonia has limited effectiveness. It can really only kill mold on hard, non-porous surfaces (such as glass, tiles, and bathtubs).

On porous surfaces such as wood, fabric, and drywall, the mold likely has penetrated deeper than the surface. Therefore, using ammonia alone will not be enough.

Related Content: The different types of mold in homes

What household product can kill mold?

Vinegar, on the other hand, is an effective way to kill mold. And vinegar works both on both porous and non-porous surfaces.

As an added benefit, vinegar is a natural, non-toxic, and affordable solution.

White vinegar, in particular, has potent anti-fungal properties capable of killing up to 82% of mold species.

To use vinegar as a mold remover, pour it into a spray bottle and apply it directly to the moldy area. Leave it to sit for about an hour, then wipe it off with a damp cloth.

Related Content: Can you get rid of mold permanently in a house?

How to prevent mold growth in homes

You can prevent mold growth by keeping your home dry and well-ventilated. Mold thrives in moist and humid environments, so it’s essential to reduce moisture levels in your home. Use dehumidifiers to keep moisture levels below 50 percent and ensure proper ventilation in your kitchen, bathroom, and laundry rooms. Also, fix any leaks as soon as you notice them and dry wet surfaces promptly.

Keep Reading: When should you call someone for mold?

Although ammonia is not the best solution for eliminating mold, a simple vinegar solution might be enough to save the day. That being said, if the mold growth is extensive or concealed in any way, your best option might be to contact a mold remediation team. This company can help you find, identify, and remove all mold from your property in the most safe and effective manner possible.

If you need help testing or removing mold from your property, give us a call today. We’d love to help.

Related Content: Is mold remediation worth it?

Mold is a common household problem that many homeowners face. However, even though it’s common, doesn’t mean it’s not serious.

Mold can lead to health issues, break down the structure of your home, and just look downright awful. But what are the different types of mold in homes and what can you do to remove and prevent those molds from growing? Let’s break it down.

What are the different types of mold?

There are several types of mold found in homes. Some of the most common ones include:

• Alternaria: This type of mold appears as brown or green furry spots and can cause allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory issues. This mold usually grows outdoors but can grow indoors (typically bathrooms).
• Aspergillus: This mold is commonly found in outdoor areas, but it can also thrive in damp areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens. It can lead to allergic reactions and respiratory problems. However, this is probably one of the most common molds and many people are around it on a daily basis.
• Cladosporium: This mold appears as blue-green spots and can grow on fabrics, carpets, and wood. It can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation, and eye irritation.
• Penicillium: This mold appears as blue or green spots and can cause serious health issues. It is typically considered one of the most common house molds.
• Stachybotrys: This mold is commonly known as “black mold” and is often found in water-damaged areas, such as basements. It can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and even memory loss.

Keep Reading: Can a house be saved from mold?

What are the causes of mold?

Mold grows in damp and humid areas. This means that areas around leaky pipes, roofs, or windows, or areas that are not well-ventilated, are all susceptible to mold growth. Homes that have experienced flooding or water damage are also at high risk for mold growth. Mold spores spread easily and can grow on almost any surface, including walls, ceilings, fabrics, and carpets.

How do you get rid of mold?

The best way to get rid of mold is by preventing it from growing in the first place. This means fixing any leaks or water damage, ensuring adequate ventilation, and keeping your home dry and clean. If you already have mold in your home, you can remove it using a white vinegar solution or a commercial mold cleaner.

However, it’s important to wear protective gear, such as gloves and a mask, when cleaning mold to avoid health problems. If the mold growth is extensive, it’s best to hire a professional mold remediation service to remove it safely.

Related Content: Can you get rid of mold permanently?

How do you prevent mold?

Preventing mold growth is key to keeping your home healthy and safe. Here are some tips to prevent mold growth:

• Fix any leaks or water damage immediately
• Increase ventilation in areas that tend to be moist, such as bathrooms and kitchens
• Clean up any spills or standing water right away
• Use a dehumidifier to keep your home dry
• Clean your home regularly, especially in high-moisture areas

Related Content: When should you call someone for mold?

Mold can be a serious problem for homeowners, but it’s preventable and treatable. By understanding the different types of mold and what causes them, you can take steps to prevent mold growth in your home. With regular maintenance, ventilation, and cleaning, you can keep your home healthy and free from mold. If you do find mold in your home, it’s important to take precautions when removing it to avoid any health problems and in many situation, you’ll want to partner with a mold remediation specialist.

Mold in your home can be devastating, not just for your health but also for your home. On top of that, mold can even weaken the structure of your house. With that being said, the question becomes: Can a house be saved from mold?

Can a house be saved from mold?

Yes, a house can be saved from mold. In other words, if you see mold growing in one of the rooms in your home, don’t freak out and set it on fire just yet. With a few steps, you (and a professional mold remediation company), can rid your home of mold. Let’s break down those steps right now.

Identify and fix the source of moisture

The first step to combating mold is identifying and fixing the source of moisture. Mold often grows in damp or moist areas, so it’s essential to find and fix leaks, water damage, or other sources of moisture. Once you’ve identified the source of moisture, take steps like fixing the leaks, increasing ventilation, and reducing humidity levels in the affected area. By eliminating the source of moisture, you can prevent mold from regrowing.

Related Content: Is professional mold remediation worth it?

Clean up the mold

Once you’ve fixed the source of moisture, it’s time to clean up the mold. You can use a solution of water and vinegar mixed in equal parts to clean up less toxic mold growth or mold growth on hard surfaces (like countertops). However, if the mold growth is severe or growing on your walls, it’s best to call a professional to handle the job. Keep in mind, if you are DIY’ing the cleanup, it’s essential to wear protective gear (like a mask and gloves) to prevent breathing in spores or irritants.

Dry the affected area

After cleaning up the mold, you’ll need to dry the affected area. Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to increase ventilation and help dry the area. Check the area frequently to ensure that it’s adequately dry. Failure to dry the area can lead to mold regrowth.

Prevent future mold growth

To prevent future mold growth, ensure that your home is adequately ventilated, do your best to control humidity levels, and always fix leaks promptly. If you live in an area with high humidity, consider using a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from your home.

Consider getting professional help

If the mold growth is extensive, consider getting professional help. Mold growth can be difficult to remove, and professionals have the experience, tools, and equipment necessary to get the job done right. Additionally, professionals can identify potential mold hiding spots that you may have missed and make suggestions for long-term prevention.

Keep Reading: Can you permanently get rid of mold in a home?

Mold is one of the most dreaded things that homeowners face. Not only does it look unsightly, but it can also cause health problems for both you and your family. On top of this, it can completely damage the flooring, walls, and ceiling of your home. 

But can you permanently get rid of mold in a house? Let’s break it down.

Can you permanently get rid of mold in a house?

Unfortunately, the simple answer is no. While you can remove mold and take steps to prevent mold from coming back in the future, there is no concrete way to permanently remove it from your home forever. In other words, there is no miracle product. That being said, there are certain actions you can take and products you can leverage to inhibit its growth.

One effective way to permanently get rid of mold is to use a mold inhibitor. This is a product that is applied to surfaces prone to mold growth, such as walls, ceilings, and floors. 

The inhibitor works by creating a barrier that prevents mold spores from attaching to and multiplying on surfaces. If applied correctly, the inhibitor can provide long-term protection against mold growth. 

However, it is important to note that inhibitors only work on clean surfaces, so a thorough cleaning should be done before applying the product.

Another way to permanently eliminate mold is to improve ventilation in the affected area. 

Good ventilation can help reduce the humidity levels in your home, making it difficult for mold to grow. Opening windows, installing vents, and using dehumidifiers are some effective ways to improve ventilation. 

However, improving ventilation may not work in severe cases where there is extensive mold growth, and professional help may be needed.

It is important to note that even with the best efforts to permanently get rid of mold, it may return if the conditions that caused it are not addressed. For this reason, it is vital to take action as soon as you detect mold growth and fix any sources of moisture.

Related Content: Mold Testing Services

How to prevent mold from growing in a home

1. Find potential sources of mold. 

Mold grows in areas where there is moisture and little ventilation. Therefore, the first step in getting rid of the mold is to find any potential sources of moisture. Often, mold is caused by a leak in the roof, plumbing, or a blocked drainage system. Once you have found the source, it is crucial to fix it immediately, or else the problem will persist.

2. Clean-up the mold.

Once the source of the mold is fixed, it’s important to clean-up the mold quickly. There are many products available in the market that can effectively kill mold, including white vinegar. However, it’s important to note that not all products may work for your specific type of mold, so it’s wise to consult a professional for their recommendations.

Related Content: Mold Removal Services

3. Improve ventilation.

It’s important to remember that mold thrives in moist and stagnant air. Therefore, improving the ventilation in your home can play a significant role in preventing the mold from returning. This can include opening windows and doors, installing fans in moisture-rich areas such as bathrooms and kitchens, and keeping an air purifier running throughout the day.

4. Monitor humidity levels.

Monitoring the humidity levels in your home is also a critical step in preventing mold growth. You can purchase a humidity meter to measure the humidity levels in your home. The ideal humidity level should be between 30-60%. If the levels are too high, you can purchase a dehumidifier to reduce the moisture levels in your home.

5. Regular maintenance.

Lastly, regular maintenance is essential to prevent mold from returning. This includes cleaning and maintaining the gutters, fixing any leaks in the roofing or plumbing, and regularly checking for signs of moisture or water damage. Regular maintenance may seem tedious, but it is much easier than dealing with a full-blown mold infestation down the line.

Additional Mold Resources

• When should you call someone for mold?
• Does mold come back after remediation?
• Is it safe to remove mold yourself?
• Does drywall need to be removed if there is mold on it?