How to Get Rid of Mold on Floor Joists in Crawl Space?

1. Stachybotrys

This type of mold is commonly referred to as “black mold,” and it is considered one of the most toxic species that can be found in your crawl space. Black mold can be found in areas such as insulation or sub-flooring that have been exposed to moisture, as well as in carpets, drywall, or beams. While there are other types of mold that may appear black in color during growth, if you notice a distinct black color accompanied by a musty odor and the presence of moisture, it is important to exercise extreme caution. It is always recommended to seek the assistance of professional mold remediation experts when dealing with black mold.

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2. Penicillium

The name of this strand bears a striking resemblance to penicillin, the life-saving antimicrobial treatment, as it played a crucial role in its development. Areas with dirt floors and decaying vegetation, such as crawl spaces, provide the ideal conditions for the growth of this particular type. Unfortunately, individuals allergic to its harmful toxins may experience respiratory issues when exposed.

3. Cladosporium

This is a highly potent species of mold that can have severe health consequences. It thrives on various surfaces including soil, painted wood, woody plants, clothing, paper, HVAC systems, painted walls, and mattress dust. Even if you don’t have most of these items in your crawl space, just a few mold spores can rapidly multiply and spread to other areas of your house, leading to contamination.

4. Aspergillus

This particular mold is commonly found in homes and crawl spaces. While these spores are not as hazardous as others, there is still a concern that prolonged exposure can lead to sinus irritation, acute or chronic lung infections, and allergic reactions. This species thrives indoors, especially in HVAC ductwork and damp crawl spaces, as well as outdoor environments.

7 Steps for Cleaning Mold on Floor Joists in Crawl Space

Addressing mold in the crawl space and along the floor joists is a physically demanding task. It requires thorough scrubbing and the ability to navigate tight spaces. Given these working conditions, it is crucial to have the appropriate safety gear and cleaning agents to efficiently complete the job while safeguarding your health. Make sure to have the following personal protective equipment:

• For your safety, make sure you have the following protective gear:

• Goggles

• Gloves made of textured-grip material

• Respirator or dust/chemical mask

• Protective clothing

Additionally, gather the necessary cleaning supplies:

• Plastic sheeting

• 5-gallon buckets

• Spray bottle

• Sponges or old cloths

• Brush, putty knife, or small shovel

Before you proceed, it is important to determine the method you will use for cleaning up any mold you find in the crawl space. Some people prefer to create their own household cleaning solutions, using ingredients such as ammonia, bleach, tea tree oil, or vinegar. Alternatively, you can opt for a commercial-grade cleaner, similar to what a professional mold remediation company would use.

Regardless of the approach you choose, it is crucial to be thorough and systematic in your mold removal process. Here is a guide to help you get started with effective mold removal:

1. Prior to mixing your cleaning solutions, ensure you don appropriate protective clothing, gloves, or goggles.

1. When removing mold, follow the recommended solution measurements. Consider using a paste made from two parts baking soda, one part white vinegar, and one part water to coat the affected area. For larger growth areas, an acid-based cleaner like vinegar, which is easier to spray, can be used. Alternatively, a strong solution of one cup of Borax to one gallon of water is effective while remaining safer than bleach or other harsh chemicals. If using bleach, dilute it by mixing one quart of water with half a cup of bleach for safety.

1. To prevent the spread of mold spores throughout the house, cover any openings such as air conditioner vents or doors with plastic sheeting. Additionally, ensure proper ventilation in the crawl space when working with strong fumes or chemicals. Set up a fan to blow the air outside or away from the work area, promoting ventilation and expedited moisture elimination.

1. Utilize a small brush or the flat part of a putty knife to carefully scrape off any visible mold growths. Dispose of the scraped mold into a trash bag or allow it to fall onto the floor. Once you have attended to the floor joists and other areas, disinfect the remaining dirt.

1. Thoroughly spray the entire affected area with your chosen cleaning solution. Ensure the area is soaked, but be cautious not to cause lasting damage to the wood. Allow the solution to sit and penetrate the affected area for a minimum of five minutes before commencing scrubbing. For wooden surfaces, it is recommended to use a brush to avoid splinters and prevent snagging of cleaning cloths. Continue scrubbing until all visible mold has been eliminated.

1. Before exiting the crawl space, spray the floor with the cleaning solution to eliminate any mold spores that may have fallen onto it. This prevents regrowth. Vinegar, bleach, and other solutions will evaporate, but they are effective in killing approximately 90% of any fungus present in the crawl space. For hard-to-reach areas, a spray bottle or pump sprayer can be used for decontamination.

1. Following the scrubbing and disinfection of the contaminated areas, introduce a UV lamp into the space to eliminate any remaining spores. Allow the lamp to shine on the dirt floor for a full day to not only eradicate mold but also aid in drying out the area, preventing further growth. Use fans to circulate the air and expel any lingering odors from the mold or cleaning solutions.