Black Mold Removal

What people mean by black mold

The phrase is often used for Stachybotrys chartarum, a slow-growing mold that needs materials to stay wet for a long time, but many common molds look dark. Color alone does not identify the species, and remediation follows the same containment and removal process regardless of color.

Where dark mold usually grows

Dark growth is most often found on paper-faced drywall, ceiling tiles, wood framing and cardboard that stayed wet for days or weeks: behind a slow leak under a sink, on the back of drywall after a flood, or around a window that leaks during storms.

How removal is handled

Contractors isolate the area with plastic sheeting, run negative air machines with HEPA filtration so spores are not pushed into the rest of the home, and remove porous materials that have growth in them. Hard surfaces such as framing are cleaned with HEPA vacuuming and wiping, and may be sanded or treated depending on the extent of growth.

• Containment with plastic sheeting and controlled access
• Negative air pressure and HEPA air filtration
• Bagging and removal of affected porous materials
• HEPA vacuuming and cleaning of framing and hard surfaces
• Drying of the area so growth does not return

Removing the moisture behind it

Dark mold is a sign that something has been wet for a long time. Removing the growth without stopping the leak or humidity that fed it lets it return. Mention any leak you know about on the call.

What to avoid before the call

Do not scrape, spray bleach on or try to tear out large areas of growth, which can release spores into the air. Keep doors to the area closed and avoid running fans that blow across it.

Questions