Dealing with an ongoing mold problem

Why are molds a concern?
Is there a mold problem?
How can you tell if it is mold?
How much mold is growing?
How to clean mold?
Dealing with an ongoing mold problem.
Preventing mold.
Mold-Proofing your home, basement.
Mold-Proofing your home, bathrooms, kitchen, laundry.
Mold-Proofing your house, closets and bedrooms, exterior.
Should I have my house air tested for mold?
The air feels dry, can I humidify?
What advantages do HEPA vacuums provide?
Is vacuuming with a HEPA or externally exhausted vacuum cleaner recommended for serious mold problems only?
Where do you find a HEPA vacuum cleaner?

Repair to the building envelope is required if moisture is entering the home from the outside. At the same time, steps should be taken inside the home to reduce the occupant's exposure to mold.

Step 1  Discard moldy or damaged materials
Wear a dust mask and gloves. Furnishings, such as mattresses, carpets, or sofas that got wet or have been stored in damp conditions should be discarded. Discard items that are no longer needed. Use this opportunity to reduce the amount of furnishings: this means fewer materials to absorb moisture and grow mold. Clothes and other items that have been cleaned should be stored in sealed plastic bags to prevent re-contamination.

Step 2 Vacuum
Proper vacuuming reduces the amount of mold spores. All surfaces in the home (floors, walls, ceilings, shelves) and non-washable furnishings (such as sofas, chairs, etc.) must be vacuumed thoroughly.

Step 3 Prevent
Keep moisture generated within the home to a minimum by conscientiously following the prevention steps presented in the next section.

Step 4 Clear wet areas
Pull carpets and furnishings away from walls that get wet. Carpets and underpads that are moldy should be cut out and discarded.

Step 5 Dry
Take steps to dry up areas that get wet. Monitor the relative humidity of the air. Use a portable dehumidifier, if necessary. Ensure that the condensate drain pan of the dehumidifier is emptied regularly.

Step 6 Isolate
If the mold is limited to one area, isolate the area if possible. Cover the affected surfaces with plastic sheeting secured at the edges with duct tape. Note that this is only a temporary measure to minimize your exposure.

Step 7 Clean
Healthy individuals can regularly clean small and moderate areas of mold, thus preventing these from getting out of hand, by following the safety precautions and cleaning guidelines.

Step 8 Seek professional help
Consider seeking professional help from trained IAQ investigators to identify appropriate remediation steps inside the home. Removing large amounts of mold will require the services of mold clean-up contractors.