A Guide On Mold Resistant Drywalls
Mold and mildew are not only unsightly, but are also a health hazard, having been implicated in a variety of respiratory complaints. Black mold is especially dangerous and in some cases has led to fatalities. It is especially important to use mold resistant drywall in building projects where the finished environment is going to be extremely humid or wet.
Examples include spas, saunas and bathrooms. Mold resistant drywall differs from normal drywall in that the facing on the inner gypsum layer is fiberglass, rather than the normal paper. The mold or mildew therefore does not have an organic surface to grow on, making it much tougher for the mold and mildew to gain a foothold. There are other types of drywall that are mold and mildew resistant, such as greenwall, however as they are paper backed they rely on heavy coatings of paint for their mold and mildew resistant properties, and mold and mildew can develop on these drywalls.
For drywall mold removal the homeowner must take a number of steps to deal with the problem. If the mold is growing on normal drywall, not the fiberglass backed type of mold resistant drywall then the homeowner has little choice but to cut out the moldy drywall and dispose of it, this type of drywall cannot be cleaned of mold. The second step is to sand down any wooden studs that were attached to the moldy drywall. Thirdly clean the surrounding area with a solution of bleach and water, sponge down with water to remove traces of bleach and allow too dry. A small dehumidifier can be used to speed up this process.
Once these steps have been completed then the new drywall can be erected. Mold resistant drywall is just that, mold resistant, it is not mold proof. If mold or mildew is found on this type of drywall there are a variety of chemical cleaners that will remove it. However, a strong solution of bleach and water should be enough to do the trick. Always remember to sponge the area down with water to remove any traces of bleach.
Drywall mold can spread incredibly quickly so it is essential to deal with the problem immediately, this is especially important given the health risks associated with mold. When removing wall mold, always take care to check the surrounding areas to ensure that they are mold free.
Although many companies claim to sell mold proof wall panels these claims should be treated with caution. There are mold resistant wall panels but truly mold proof panels are not available.
The installation of mold resistant drywall is a common sense precaution if areas with high moisture content, but care should be taken that the wall panels are not in direct contact with running water. For this reason mold resistant panels are not suitable for use as shower enclosures where they will be exposed to continuous moisture. Also take care not to install these panels in areas where the temperature exceeds 125 degrees as they are not fire rated. For instance keep them away from chimney or boiler flues.
