In most buildings, attic spaces are susceptible to mold due to poor ventilation, inadequate air sealing, or roof leaks. Mold in these areas can lead to health issues, making mold remediation a crucial task for homeowners.
Removing attic mold can be tricky as most homeowners aren’t well-equipped to tackle this concern themselves.
That being said, mold shouldn’t be ignored because it can negatively impact indoor air quality and affect the entire family’s health. The guide below will show you the basic steps to remove mold from attic plywood efficiently and safely.
4 DIY Steps on How to Remove Mold from Attic Plywood
To detect signs of mold in the attic, you must routinely check the area. The routine allows you to recognize any issue in advance and prevent panic scenarios. There are several signs of mold in the attic area to look for.
The first and easiest sign to detect is discovering discoloration or black stains on plywood in the attic. At this point, the problem is more than moisture issues but rather molds. Second, if the area feels hot and stuffy instead of cool and airy, it should be taken as a sign of bad ventilation that can cause mold.
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Poor ventilation during cold seasons may make the water vapor below the roof freeze, so check if there’s any buildup of frost that may cause mold. Another sign to look for is the smell; you would detect moldy and musty smells in the attic area.
Read also: Best Roof Ventilation Methods
Now, if your attic area possesses one or more signs of mold, as stated above, then know that it’s possible to remove the mold on your own, as long as the affected area is small (less than 10 sq ft.).
If you choose to take the project yourself, you must take precautions such as wearing clothes and shoes that can be thrown away after performing the task and wearing P-100 or N-95 respirators, gloves, and goggles.
With proper ventilation, you must also ventilate the area while tackling the job. Prepare a disposal bag to contain the moldy debris as well.
If you have prepared well, then here’s what you need to do to eliminate attic molds:
- Prepare a wet vacuum and fill the tank in half capacity with water.
- Wipe the surface of the affected area with a damp cloth or sponge with the help of wood cleaner or clean water.
- After you have wiped the surfaces and let them dry, use your vacuum to clean the plywood.
- You can dispose of the contaminated material safely by putting them inside a sealed plastic bag.
If the mold has affected more than 10 sq ft. area in your attic and multiple spots, it is extremely recommended that you to reach for professionals to remedy the problem.
Importance of Controlling Moisture
Controlling moisture levels in the attic is key to preventing mold growth. Ensuring the attic is well-ventilated and free from moist air helps reduce the risk of mold. This can be achieved by using proper insulation and ensuring no leaks in the roof.
Safety Precautions
When undertaking mold removal, wearing protective gear and ensuring the attic is well-ventilated is important. This helps minimize exposure to mold spores, which can cause health issues. Always wear gloves, goggles, and a mask during the cleaning process.
Read also: Safety Equipment for Roofers: Protecting Lives at Heights
They can help you determine the best action to take to remove mold from attic plywood and even prevent mold growth. Resolving the problem yourself is quite dangerous, not to mention it requires you to use safety equipment to do so.
