There are several ways to check for mold in your own home.- Odor - a musty smell is often a strong indicator of a mold problem.
- Sight - black mold growing inside a wall is actually mold feeding off the drywall's paper backing. Check walls, ceilings and floors for white, orange, green, brown or black discoloration. Rotting wood, crumbling plaster or damaged drywall are other good indicators of a mold problem.
Eliminating mold:- First, protect yourself with heavy rubber gloves, a high quality face mask or respirator and continuous ventilation.
- Next, clean the area with soap and water, then disinfect with a 10% solution of 1-1/2 cups of bleach per gallon of water.
- Let the area dry thoroughly, then remove all moldy materials such as drywall, carpet and wood. Bag all the damaged materials at the work site to avoid spreading the mold to other areas.
Preventing Mold Regrowth:- Regularly clean and disinfect walls and woodwork.
- Install a basement dehumidifier.
- Use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bath areas; make sure attic is properly ventilated.
Kitchen exhaust fan
| 
Bathroom ventilation fan
| 
Attic ventilation
|
For more help in identifying and treating mold problems, check out DIY's Mold Quiz.
| 
![PHOTO](javascript:popup("http://img.diynetwork.com/DIY/2005/03/14/03_dhhw_102_4ca_mold_e.jpg",350,450))
)
)
)
