It’s exciting to start a bathroom renovation, imagining your new tile, stylish vanity, and modern fixtures. However, as with many home renovation projects, once you start tearing things out you might find mold.
Finding mold—especially when it’s widespread or appears to be black mold—can bring your remodel to a screeching halt. Don’t panic! Taking the right steps to address a mold problem is crucial for your health and the longevity of your new bathroom remodeling project. This guide, brought to you by Koalaty Bath, will walk you through the best practices for dealing with mold you find mold during a home remodel and how to prevent mold from returning.
How to Go About Mold Remediation & Bathroom Renovation
Contain the Area and Assess the Situation
If you find mold behind the drywall or in the subfloor, your first step is to contain the area. This prevents the microscopic mold spores from spreading throughout the home and contaminating other areas of your home or your hvac system.
- Seal it off: Use plastic sheeting (at least 6 mil thick) and painter’s tape to physically isolate the moldy area, closing off doorways and any heating/cooling duct vents. This is part of setting up containment and is vital to prevent cross-contamination.
- Safety First: Before disturbing the moldy area, equip yourself with safety equipment: at a minimum, wear a properly-fitting respirator (N-95 or better), rubber gloves, and eye protection. Mold can cause various health risks, especially for those with sensitive immune systems or those who suffer from asthma attacks.
- Small vs. Large: If the area of mold is small (less than about 10 square feet) and is confined to non-porous surfaces like ceramic tile, you might be able to safely remove it yourself. If the mold behind the wall is extensive, or if you suspect it’s the more concerning black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum), you should call a professional mold remediation specialist immediately. The presence of a severe mold issue might also indicate a significant, long-standing leak, such as from a leaky faucet or roof, requiring further investigation.
Check out Clorox for more genius ideas on how to remove mold yourself.
Mold Remediation: When to Call the Experts
While many homeowners tackle small patches of surface mold, a bathroom renovation often uncovers a deeper, more systemic problem, which is why we recommend contacting a professional service.
When to Hire a Professional
Sometimes a DIY project to remove mold is not enough— you have to bring in a professional to help you.
- Extensive Growth: If the mold covers a large area or you suspect it has spread inside the wall cavities, subfloor, or other inaccessible areas.
- Porous Materials: Mold thrives in damp environments and permeates porous materials like drywall, insulation, and wood. These materials often need to be removed and replaced.
- Black Mold: If you suspect the presence of Stachybotrys chartarum. This type of mold produces mycotoxins, and professional containment, filtration, and disposal are essential.
- Health Concerns: If anyone in the home is experiencing chronic respiratory issues, skin irritation, or severe allergic reactions which may be linked to air quality.
A reputable professional mold remediation company will follow standards set by organizations like the IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) to ensure the safe and thorough removal and prevention of mold. They know how to properly seal and dispose of mold-contaminated materials properly in sealed garbage bags to prevent the spread spores.
Mold Removal Cost
The mold removal cost will depend heavily on the severity and location of the mold. A small job you tackle yourself might only cost the price of cleaning supplies, while a major issue involving tearing out and replacing drywall and insulation could cost thousands. This is why addressing the issue during the renovation is the best time, as everything is already exposed.
Best Practices for Removal and Prevention
Whether you’re handling a small area or overseeing a professional job, certain best practices must be followed to get rid of mold and prevent mold from growing again.
Removing Smaller Areas of Mold
If you’re confident the mold is non-extensive and on a non-porous surface, you can try:
- Scrubbing: Use a stiff brush and a solution of water and a non-toxic detergent or a specialized commercial mold cleaner. Household cleaning products may suffice, but remember that bleach is generally not recommended for killing mold on porous materials and can even promote further mold growth by leaving behind moisture.
- Addressing the Source: The most critical step is fixing the moisture source. A mold problem is a water problem. Is it a leaky pipe, a roof issue, or just poor proper ventilation?
Preventing Future Mold Growth
Your new bathroom remodeling project is the perfect opportunity to implement long-term moisture control strategies:
- Ventilation is Key: Ensure you have a powerful, properly sized, and correctly vented exhaust fan (bathroom fans). This is your first line of defense against the high humidity that causes mold growth. The fan should vent outside, not into the attic.
- Allow Light In: If possible, consider a window replacement to allow more natural light, as UV rays can help inhibit mold development.
- Choose Mold-Resistant Materials: Use mold-resistant drywall (often called “green board”) and paint specifically designed for damp environments. Consider using epoxy grout, which is less porous than traditional cement grout.
- Routine Cleaning: Regularly clean areas where moisture tends to trap moisture, such as the shower and behind the faucet. Get into the habit of using a squeegee on the shower walls and glass after each use.
Don’t let the sight of mold spoil your exciting bathroom renovation. By acting quickly, safely, and professionally, you can ensure your new bathroom is beautiful, healthy, and mold-free.
Request a Quote for Your Mold-Free Bathroom Remodel Today!
Ready to renovate and ensure you never find mold again?
Koalaty Bath connects you with fully vetted bathroom remodeling contractors who are experienced in dealing with unexpected issues like mold and who prioritize proper ventilation and moisture control in your new space. Get started on your safe, healthy, and dream remodel today!
FAQ: Bathroom Renovation & How to Prevent Mold
What to do if you find mold in the bathroom?
If you find mold in the bathroom, immediately stop using the affected area, contain the area to prevent the spread spores, address the source of moisture (e.g., a leaky pipe), and assess the size. For large or pervasive growth, especially behind the drywall or if you suspect black mold, hire a professional for mold remediation.
Who is responsible for mold in the bathroom?
In an owner-occupied home, the homeowner is responsible. If you are a renter, the landlord is generally responsible, especially if the mold is caused by structural issues or neglected maintenance (like a leaking pipe).
Do roofers do mold remediation or bathroom remodeling contractors?
Neither roofers nor standard bathroom remodeling contractors typically specialize in dedicated mold remediation. A specialized professional mold removal company should be called. However, a good bathroom remodeling contractor can remove and replace the affected drywall and tile once the area is confirmed to be free of mold growth.
What if mold is behind the drywall?
If mold is behind the drywall, the drywall is considered a porous material and must be cut out, safely disposed of as a mold-contaminated material properly, and replaced. This usually indicates a significant moisture issue that needs to be fixed. It is advisable to call a professional mold specialist to confirm full eradication and prevent the spread spores throughout the home.