QUESTION: Mold and mildew: how to remove mold from walls and joints?

Removing mold and mildew from walls and tile joints is an important task that requires a comprehensive and consistent approach. When tackling mold, it is always best to start with a simple strategic plan: clearly define the goal, allocate a budget, set deadlines, and make a complete list of necessary materials and protective equipment. This action algorithm helps avoid chaotic steps and unnecessary waste of time and effort.

Before starting active work, you must ensure your own safety, as mold spores are toxic to the respiratory system. Put on thick rubber gloves, safety goggles, and a respirator or medical mask. It is also recommended to thoroughly ventilate the room during the work to reduce the concentration of harmful substances in the air.

To remove surface mold, prepare a working solution or purchase a specialized antiseptic at a hardware store. When choosing products, consider the wall material: chlorine-based solutions are suitable for concrete and brick, while plasterboard or wallpaper require milder hydrogen peroxide or vinegar-based formulas. Apply the chosen product to the affected areas using a sponge or spray bottle.

Thoroughly treat the tile joints in the bathroom or kitchen, where the fungus often penetrates deep into the grout structure. For mechanical cleaning of hard-to-reach places, use an old toothbrush or a stiff sponge, gently rubbing the solution into the joints. Leave the product on the surface for the time specified by the manufacturer's instructions, which usually takes from fifteen to thirty minutes.

After the exposure time is complete, wash off the remaining chemicals and dead fungus with clean water and wipe the treated surfaces dry with a dry cloth. Apply a deep-penetrating protective anti-fungal primer to the clean and dry wall, which will prevent the reappearance of spores in the future. Make small iterations and be sure to check the results obtained at each individual step of the work.