Trask Research, Inc. - Mold Problem Solving

Mold in Ceiling Tile

By Matt Yurina, Mold Inspector/Remediator

CONTAIN- the mold from spreading into uncontaminated areas;

KILL- the mold;

REMOVE- the dead mold and materials used for remediation; and

PROTECT- the cleaned out area against future mold infestations.

In any mold remediation job a P100 respirator, gloves, goggles and full body protective clothing (disposable Tyvek suit or coveralls that are washable the second you finish the job) a required.

Second, make sure you know what caused the mold problem: i.e. roof leak, burst pipe, moisture condensation? This moisture problem will have to be fixed as soon as possible, and the entire area will need to be dried out. A dehumidifier is always helpful; it’s important to keep humidity below 50% at all times.

Most ceiling tiles cannot be saved if there is visible mold growth on them, as they are too fragile and porous. In most cases water damage and staining alone makes the tile ugly and useless. Tiles must be carefully removed, bagged and thrown away. Once this is finished, apply Oxy Mold MX-501™ concentrate. It’s an EPA registered mold killer designed to kill mold. In many cases it can be sprayed onto the infected surfaces, but if the area smells musty or moldy the better choice would be to fog the MX-501. A cold, air based Fogger will atomize the fungicide, turning it into micron size particles that will better kill mold spores in the air and on the surfaces. Treat the moldy area with the MX-501™ at least twice, allowing time in between applications to dry (24 hours should suffice). Visit the Crawlspace or Basement Remediation instructions for steps on how to apply the MX-501 with a cold fogger.

As long as moisture can no longer reach the area your mold problems should be over. Be sure the area is properly ventilated, and that if any leaks or flooding occur, the water is removed and the area is thoroughly dry within 24 hours.

Perform clearance testing with an EZ Mold Test Kit now to be sure that the mold was eradicated, and that there isn’t an excess of mold spores in the air. It will be safe to go ahead and rebuild, re-insulate, reinstall tiles and so forth, only when these clearance tests prove the mold contamination has been remediated.