
Mould growth on walls is not just unsightly but can also pose serious health risks. If you have mould creeping on your walls, it’s important to act quickly and safely. This guide will show you how to remove mould off walls effectively and prevent its return.
Why Does Mould Grow on Walls?
Before delving into the benefits, let’s define what commercial pressure cleaning entails. High-pressure or pressure washing is a cleaning method that uses a powerful stream of water at high pressure to remove dirt, grime, debris, and other contaminants from surfaces. For commercial properties, this could include exterior walls, walkways, driveways, parking lots, windows, and even roofs.
The beauty of pressure cleaning lies in its ability to clean surfaces that are otherwise difficult to reach and clean manually. Whether it’s grease in a kitchen area or years of accumulated dirt on the building’s exterior, pressure cleaning can handle it all.
Understanding the causes of mould growth will help you prevent it in the future. Learn more about why mould grows in damp areas to protect your home from recurring issues.
How to Remove Mould Off Walls: Step-by-Step Guide
Removing mould from walls requires the right tools, cleaning solutions, and safety precautions. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to remove mould off walls.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Supplies
Before you begin the mould removal process, gather the following items:
- Gloves and a face mask to protect yourself from inhaling mould spores.
- Bleach or a mould remover solution (alternatively, use white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide for natural cleaning).
- Scrub brush or sponge to scrub the mould off the walls.
- Bucket of warm water.
- Towels or rags to wipe the area dry.
- Plastic sheeting or tarp to protect the floor.
Step 2: Ventilate the Area
Proper ventilation is essential when removing mould from walls. Open all windows and doors to ensure airflow and reduce the concentration of mould spores. If possible, use a fan to help air circulate.
Step 3: Apply the Mould Remover
For most wall mould, bleach is a powerful option. If you’re using bleach, mix one part bleach to three parts water. Alternatively, you can use a commercial mould remover. For a non-toxic solution, try mixing equal parts of water and vinegar or use 3% hydrogen peroxide.
- Spray the solution onto the affected area. Allow it to sit for about 10-15 minutes to loosen the mould.
- Warning: Always perform a patch test on a small section of your wall to ensure the cleaning solution doesn’t damage the paint or wallpaper.
Step 4: Scrub the Mould Off
After the solution has had time to work, use a scrub brush to scrub away the mould. Make sure to apply enough pressure to remove all the growth. For stubborn mould, a little more solution may be needed.
Step 5: Rinse and Dry the Walls
After scrubbing, rinse the walls with clean water to remove any remaining cleaning solution. Dry the area thoroughly with towels or rags. It’s crucial to keep the area dry, as moisture can quickly lead to more mould growth.
Step 6: Prevent Future Mould Growth
Once you’ve successfully removed the mould, take steps to prevent it from returning. Here are a few tips to keep your walls mould-free:
- Fix leaks immediately to prevent excess moisture.
- Improve ventilation in high-humidity areas, like bathrooms and kitchens.
- Use a dehumidifier in damp rooms.
- Seal cracks in the walls where moisture can enter.
For more tips on keeping your home mould-free, check out our post on mould prevention techniques.
How to Remove Mould Off Walls Using Natural Solutions
If you prefer to use eco-friendly methods, there are several natural solutions to remove mould off walls effectively. These methods are safer for your health and the environment while still being effective at getting rid of mould.
White Vinegar
Vinegar is an excellent natural disinfectant. Its acetic acid kills mould spores and prevents regrowth. Simply:
- Spray undiluted vinegar on the affected area.
- Let it sit for an hour before scrubbing with a brush.
- Rinse and dry the wall as described in the previous section.
Baking Soda
Baking soda not only helps to remove mould but also deodorizes the area. Mix it with water to create a paste, then apply it to the mould. Let it sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is another effective natural cleaner. Its antifungal properties make it ideal for removing mould. Here’s how to use it:
- Spray 3% hydrogen peroxide onto the affected surface.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing with water.
When to Call the Professionals
In some cases, mould growth can be too extensive or dangerous to handle yourself. If:
- The mould covers a large area (greater than 10 square feet).
- You experience severe health symptoms (such as coughing, sneezing, or respiratory issues).
- There is hidden mould, especially behind walls or under flooring.
It’s best to hire a professional mould removal service. Contact Sydney Cleaning Experts for safe and effective mould removal services.
How to Prevent Mould from Growing on Walls
Once you’ve dealt with the immediate mould problem, it’s important to ensure it doesn’t come back. Here are a few preventive measures you can take:
- Fix leaks promptly: Water leaks from plumbing, the roof, or windows can create a perfect environment for mould to thrive.
- Use a dehumidifier: In areas prone to high humidity, such as basements or bathrooms, a dehumidifier can keep the moisture levels in check.
- Increase ventilation: Open windows regularly and install exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to reduce moisture buildup.
- Paint with mould-resistant paint: For areas prone to mould, consider using mould-resistant paints to help keep your walls free from growth.
For more prevention tips, check out our mould prevention page.
Conclusion
Removing mould off walls requires time, effort, and the right tools. Whether you choose chemical solutions like bleach or natural alternatives like vinegar, it’s important to act quickly. By following these steps, you can remove mould effectively and prevent it from returning. If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to contact professionals for assistance.
Important Links
Recommended For You
North Shore
North Sydney
Chatswood
Mosman
Lane Cove
Hornsby
Western Suburbs
Parramatta
Penrith
Blacktown
Auburn
Liverpool
Northern Suburbs
Manly
Dee Why
Palm Beach
Newport
Freshwater
Inner West
Newtown
Glebe
Balmain
Leichhardt
Marrickville
Eastern Suburbs
Bondi
Paddington
Randwick
Coogee
Double Bay
Sydney Central Business District
Circular Quay
The Rocks
Barangaroo
Darling Harbour