If you were ever told to “spray it” or “wipe it down” with bleach, when discussing mold, Stop and Read!
Using bleach to treat mold on porous or semi-porous surfaces such as wood or drywall is NOT recommended.
Bleach is over 90% water and when applied to semi-porous or porous materials becomes a growth accelerator.
The chlorine content of bleach dries up almost immediately leaving water to be absorbed into the root sytem of mold, which will feed the mold. Although visible mold may appear to diminsh or even completely vanish, mold that has penetrated into the porous material remains and when the root system absorbs the water, mold will thrive. This is why problems often become much worse a few days after applying and treating with bleach.
Using bleach can also damage property resulting in unintended consequences. It can damage many materials such as wood and metal by eating away at your building materials and furnishings. It can break down wood fibers and corrode metal.
For many years bleach was touted as the product of choice for cleaning, treating and sanitizing.
The idea that bleach will completely get rid of mold was common, but was in fact a huge misconception sold to us by the big bleach marketing agencies.
Today, the CDC advises against handling bleach without the use of complete personal protective gear, including a N95 respirator, gloves, and goggles. Though bleach can be used to disinfect bath tubs, sinks and other non-porous surfaces, it is not receommned due to it’s potential for harmful effects.
Bleach not only has a strong, unpleasant smell, it has the potential to be extremely harmful to your personal health. If exposed to it for long periods of time or mixed with liquid or gas vapors of other cleaners, such as ammonia, bleach can result in physical damage to your health, especially if you are immune compromised or have asthma or other pulmonary conditions.
Know the facts and when it comes to mold, call a professional remediation company. Our team at Drip Ninjas are able to assess your situation, coordinate formal testing to identify type and the extent of the damage and will work with you to develop a comprehensive remediation plan to address your individual needs.
Don’t delay, call us today!
Drip Ninjas
Mastering the Art of Dry
