How to Kill Mold Spores
Mold spores are the reproductive offspring of molds. They cause allergic reactions in some people and simply killing them is insufficient to keep them from causing these reactions. They need to be completely removed. Mold spores need to be killed with a biocide and then scraped away.
Things You Will Need
- Goggles (optional)
- Gloves (optional)
- Disposable face mask
- Primer
- Tilex Mold and Mildew Remover or Formula 409
- Spackling paste
- Spackling spatula
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Purchase a solution approved for killing mold spores, such as Tilex Mold and Mildew Remover, Formula 409, or DepHyze. According to the Intl. Union of Operating Engineers, benzalkonium chloride (an ingredient in Formula 409) kills mold spores.
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Soak the mold with the solution thoroughly BEFORE scrubbing. Scrub only as deep as the mold is soaked. This prevents sending dry spores airborne. Resoak the mold after each layer is scraped away. Discard the wet mold in a sealed plastic bag.
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Soak the wall thoroughly one final time after the mold is all scraped away, just to kill what you can’t see. Keep it soaked for 15 minutes. As soon as that application is dry, apply spackling paste with a long spatula to smooth out the surface and keep any remaining spores from going airborne. Then prime it for an additional layer of protection, whether you plan to paint it or not.
Tip
Ozone generators can also kill both mold and mold spores. However, the machines cost hundreds of dollars and many on the market don’t produce the concentration needed to overcome ozone’s fast rate of self-degradation.
Warning
Use a disposable facemask so that you don’t inhale spores during the scraping process. Use goggles to apply the antiseptic. Keep a pail of water handy in case you get any solution on your skin or in your eyes.
The Drip Cap
- Mold spores are the reproductive offspring of molds.
- They need to be completely removed.
- Keep it soaked for 15 minutes.
- As soon as that application is dry, apply spackling paste with a long spatula to smooth out the surface and keep any remaining spores from going airborne.
References
Resources
Writer Bio
Paul Dohrman's academic background is in physics and economics. He has professional experience as an educator, mortgage consultant, and casualty actuary. His interests include development economics, technology-based charities, and angel investing.
Photo Credits
- Stockbyte/Stockbyte/Getty Images
- Stockbyte/Stockbyte/Getty Images
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