Cinder block walls are very durable but can also encounter problems like mold growth. Continue reading to know how to clean mold off cinder block walls.
When dirt and moisture are accumulated and settled on cinder block walls, mold spores will start appearing and will later on expand. Once you spot mold patches in your walls, it is best that you take action as immediately as possible before the damage gets worse.
Steps To Killing Mold In Cinder Block Walls
Killing and removing mold on your cinder block walls are possible with appropriate tools and materials. Just follow the preceding steps so you can bring back the glory of your walls.
Step #1. Dry the wall
You can either wait for the wet season to be over and allow the wall to dry on its own, or you can do it yourself. Dry the damaged wall with a wet-dry vacuum.
If the mentioned vacuum is not available, EPA recommends using a HEPA vacuum when vacuuming cinder block walls. While doing it, remove as much mold as possible and draw out all the impurities.
Step #2. Make a bleach solution
In order to treat mold, you have to make a bleach solution — mix 1 quart of bleach with 3 quarts of water. Afterward, add an ounce of detergent powder and an ounce of orthophosphate, which is usually marketed as trisodium phosphate available in home centers.
When creating the solution, make sure to wear a mask and a pair of gloves. It is also best to do it in a well-ventilated area to avoid too much chemical exposure.
Step #3. Apply the solution to the wall
With a spray bottle or sponge, apply the mixture you made to the parts of the cinder block wall where mold is present. Make sure to apply enough amount to penetrate the mold. Let it sit for about five days before proceeding to the next step.
Step #4. Scrub mold off the wall
After five days, it is now time to scrub the wall. Wear a pair of gloves and grab a firm wire brush. Scrub the wall carefully to remove the mold particles and avoid damaging the surface as much as possible.
Step #5. Rinse and vacuum
Once thoroughly scrubbed, rinse the wall with cool water and let it dry. Then, use a vacuum again to get rid of any dead mold spores and other residues.
Step #6. Clean the wall regularly
Fighting mold does not stop once you get rid of it because it may reoccur if you don’t clean your walls regularly. Make it a habit to clean the cinder block walls with a mild detergent and water once in a while.
Keeping the walls clean will drive away mold spores and prevent mold growth from reoccurring. Also, spray the walls from time to time with a spray nozzle to get rid of accumulated dirt. Keep them dry as much as possible as moisture exposure makes them prone to mold.
If you have concrete walls with mold growth, you can also check out this guide to help you get rid of them. For mold on concrete floors, this article will be helpful to you.
Preventing Mold Growth
If you think that mold is something you can’t stop from happening, you are wrong. Here are some simple ways to guide you.
1. Stay out of moisture
Moisture exposure has got to be the most significant cause of mold growth. Keep everything nice and dry, especially your walls, if you want to keep them away from fungal problems.
2. Immediately repair cracks and leaks
Always be mindful of cracks and leaks in your home. Once you spot them, act as soon as possible so they will not get worse and cause more damage.
3. Improve ventilation
The lack of good air circulation and ventilation can trigger the growth of mold. You can consider using a dehumidifier, especially in the dark and damp areas of your home. It will help keep your space dry, cool, and mold-free.
4. Have regular inspections
The best advice would be to be proactive and do inspections on your home regularly. You may think this might be a hassle, but it will be useful in the long run.
Inspection may consume your time, but it will save you money. Lend your free time at least once a month to check your house for any cracks, leaks, or other water problems.
Conclusion
Mold growing in the comfort of your home is scary and may threaten your family’s health. As much as possible, it is best that you invest in preventing it as much as possible.
Now that you learned how to clean mold off cinder block walls, you are one step ahead to keeping your home’s pristine. Going out of your way to keep your home safe from problems is not necessary. This article will always be available for you to look at when you need a guide.