How to Remove Mold from Floor Joists

If you live in a humid and moist climate, it is important that you regularly remove mold from your floor joists. When left without being removed, mold in joists can eventually become such a problem that it can only be removed by professionals. This can apply not only to homes with basements, but also to those with crawl spaces. The best course of action will always be to remove the mold in the earliest stages of its development. Follow the simple steps below to effectively remove mold from the floor joists in your home.

What You'll Need

• Water
• Spray bottle
• White vinegar or liquid bleach
• Clean rags
• Plastic bag
• Step ladder

Step 1 -  Mix a Solution of Water and Vinegar

In a spray bottle, mix a solution of 10 parts water and 1 part white vinegar or liquid bleach. If you use bleach, make sure to use a container that will allow you to pour the solution without spilling it where it can damage clothes or other belongings.

Step 2 – Apply the Anti-Mold Solution

Use a spray bottle adjusted to spray a mist. If you use a more forceful stream of water, you might scatter mold spores when you spray them. For areas you are treating in your basement, you will likely need a ladder to reach higher levels of joists where you will find mold. You'll need to get the spray bottle within inches of the mold for it to be effective. To kill the mold, spray the solution directly onto the mold. When applying the solution, be sure to avoid spraying directly over your head to so as not to get the solution or mold spores from dripping on your face or head.

Step 3 – Wipe Down the Sprayed Area

Use a clean, absorbent rag to wipe down the area you've sprayed with the solution. Use each rag on only a single mold area. This will help avoid spreading the spores. Discard into a plastic bag all rags used to wipe down each of the mold areas.

Step 4 – Spray Additional Applications of Your Solution

After wiping down the mold area, apply a second application of the solution you've made, allowing it to remain on the mold for 24 hours. After the waiting period has passed, use the same process of spraying and wiping for 3 more consecutive 24-hour periods. Wait for a week, and then repeat your spraying and wiping process for another 3 days, discarding your used rags in the plastic bag each time they are used.

Step 5 – Treating Floor Joists in Crawl Spaces

In crawl spaces where light is more dim, take an extension cord and drop light with you as you inspect the floor joists for mold. Using a helper who can direct the light while you spray and wipe will ensure your doing a more thorough and safe treatment.

Source: www.DoItYourself.com