How to Encapsulate Mold?

The encapsulation of mold involves applying a mold sealant to a specific surface to inhibit the growth or spread of any existing mold. Typically, materials that are unable to be thoroughly cleaned of mold should be discarded and replaced. This is why items like mold-infested carpets and drywalls are usually removed from homes. However, there are instances where an item can’t be effectively cleaned nor easily removed, such as wall studs or ceiling rafters. In these situations, the maximum amount of mold is eliminated before the remaining mold is encapsulated.

We will delve into the circumstances under which encapsulation is suitable and when it isn’t. We will also shed light on how this procedure is carried out and guide you on seeking assistance, including free advice from seasoned professionals.

When Is Encapsulating Mold Appropriate?

Encapsulation is only suitable when mold cannot be entirely eliminated from a surface and it’s not feasible to remove and replace the mold-infested material. This process is commonly performed on wooden surfaces, such as the studs within walls (refer to the picture below). While moldy drywall can be easily replaced, the same cannot be said for the studs.

Fully eradicating mold from porous materials like wood is challenging, if not impossible, as microscopic mold spores infiltrate the minute pores in the wood. Consequently, even when it appears the mold has been cleared, tiny quantities can remain hidden within the material’s pores, similar to other porous substances. This is why, if the moldy wood cannot be discarded and replaced, encapsulation is suggested to ensure any residual mold cannot proliferate or spread in the future.

When Is Encapsulating Mold Not Appropriate?

Avoid encapsulating mold on surfaces that can be effectively cleaned. Mold can generally be eliminated from non-porous materials such as metal, glass, and tile. If you’re uncertain about whether mold can be removed from a particular surface or unsure about the most effective mold removal method, it’s advisable to seek professional guidance. Many mold remediation experts provide complimentary in-home consultations, allowing you to receive expert advice at no expense. Shortly, we’ll guide you on how to arrange a free consultation.

Also, refrain from encapsulating mold on items that can be discarded and replaced. Items like drywall or wooden furniture should be removed from the home and thrown away rather than being encapsulated. While it might appear less labor-intensive to encapsulate mold on drywall or more cost-effective to encapsulate mold on furniture instead of purchasing new pieces, disposing of and replacing mold-infested items that can’t be cleaned is both safer and more efficient than encapsulating mold.

How Do You Encapsulate Mold?

Before the encapsulation process, professionals aim to eliminate as much mold as possible by thoroughly scrubbing the mold-infested surface with a fungicide. In some cases, they might sand wood to remove additional mold that couldn’t be eradicated through scrubbing. However, sanding mold is quite risky as it disperses numerous microscopic mold spores into the air, posing an inhalation risk. Only trained professionals should attempt to sand moldy wood.

Once the maximum amount of mold has been removed, a mold sealant is then applied. It’s crucial to remember that you should never cover mold with regular paint. Regular or even mold-resistant paint will not inhibit the growth or spread of mold within the wood. Instead, it only obscures the mold, making it harder to detect when it starts to grow again. Only a product specifically designed for mold encapsulation should be utilized for this purpose.

What Is a Mold Sealant?

A sealant is similar to thick paint, but with the addition of an antimicrobial agent. It is applied in the same manner as paint and is available in various colors, with white being the most commonly used. The purpose of the encapsulant is to effectively seal organic food sources, such as wood, thereby preventing future mold growth and reproduction. This process is known as “Encapsulation.”

Here is an image of a home that is prone to flooding, where the crawl space and lower level have been encapsulated. The main challenge lies in achieving a thorough sealing of all gaps and cracks, which can be an extremely difficult task to accomplish.

When Is Encapsulation Necessary?

It has been our experience that if moisture is properly controlled, encapsulation should not be necessary. But if it was to be needed, it would be in an area where moisture management continues to present a challenge (such as a crawl space or basement) or where materials can’t be replaced.

Addressing the liquid water in this basement would be the first thing to address with this water/mold management strategy.

Mold Encapsulation Risks

Proper removal of mold and effective moisture management are crucial aspects of any mold remediation project. By addressing the underlying moisture issue, mold growth can be effectively controlled. However, if moisture management proves challenging, it is not advisable to use an encapsulant, as moisture can still find a way to penetrate the barrier. We often say in our office, “water always wins.”

One of the challenges in mold remediation is dealing with hidden mold growth. Moisture can seep behind the encapsulant and stimulate mold growth that eventually bleeds through the painted surface. Removing mold is already a daunting task, but it becomes even more challenging when it is growing beneath the sealant. This creates a condition called “hidden mold growth,” which is extremely difficult to completely rectify.

It is important to note that all wood is “hygroscopic,” meaning it naturally absorbs moisture from the surrounding air. Even when wood is encapsulated, it will always attempt to equalize with the relative humidity of its surroundings. Consequently, there will always be small gaps in encapsulated wood, allowing moisture and mold to penetrate.

In some cases, mold may be superficially painted over during a remediation encapsulation process. This can create a hidden burden of mold that continues to grow and exacerbate its detrimental effects. Therefore, caution should be exercised when dealing with encapsulated mold projects, ensuring that moisture management and proper ventilation are also addressed.

Furthermore, it is worth considering the impact of chemical burden, especially for individuals with chemical sensitivities. The addition of an encapsulant may further contribute to an already elevated level of chemical stress.

In summary, meticulous mold removal and effective moisture management are vital for successful mold remediation. Understanding the challenges of hidden mold growth, the properties of wood, the impact of painting over mold, and the potential chemical burden is crucial in achieving long-lasting results.

Ask a Mold Professional

Removing mold is far from a simple task, unlike changing a light bulb. And when you factor in dealing with encapsulants, things become even more complicated. That’s where Restoreez comes in. Having Restoreez on your team is not only a smart use of your budget, but also a brilliant idea to help you design and execute your personalized mold management project.