When you first discover mold in your attic plywood, you may consider it harmless or ignore it as a black mark. Yet, this common issue within a house’s hidden spaces can escalate, posing severe health hazards to you and your family.
Yes, molds can destroy whole wooden structures, including the ceiling, walls, and furniture. Thus, mold removal is a vital task for homeowners who wish to prevent these problems from worsening.
What is Attic Plywood?
Plywood is a solid wood made by sticking several thin layers of wood together. Each layer’s wood grain is turned at a right angle to the others, making the plywood intense and more challenging to bend. Strong glues are used to stick these layers together, and they are pressed under high heat to ensure they stay together.
One reason you may not observe them is that they are hidden in corners along the walls. While we placed the sofa or any other furniture there, it didn’t get our direct eye view.
Reason for Mold Growth in the Attic Plywood
How does mold silently grow in attic plywood?
Good question.
Well, it’s driven by moisture and oxygen for a specific time. They thrive in hot and humid conditions. Below are some of the reasons why they grow:
1. Poor Exhaustion
Firstly, ventilation in your attic plays a crucial role. When the vents are covered by insulation or other materials, the air cannot pass properly. As a result, moisture in the air condenses on wood sheathing. Thus, it creates a perfect environment for mold to grow and may cause residents to have allergies.
This problem often occurs in homes where the attic furniture or interior remains for a long time. Thus, the space becomes a space where damp air gets sealed.
2. Roof Leaks or Drainage
Additionally, ceiling leakages also contribute to mold issues. Whether it’s rain, snow, or even a storm, any water intrusion can make your attic’s wooden structure wet. This allows molds to produce eggs and breed without any obstacles. To avoid this, check the roof periodically whenever the weather changes.
3. Improper Venting
Thirdly, lousy duct vent work in the bathrooms and dryer area contributes to mold growth. The vents should lead to the outdoors without any leakage inside, which causes moisture buildup. In my experience, rigid vents are more easily locked than flexible vents.
How to Remove Mold from Attic Plywood – The Simple Way
It can be daunting for someone who faces this first time, but with the proper steps, you can tackle it. Here’s a practical approach based on experience and standard practices:
Step # 1: Addressing the Source of Moisture
The first line of defense against mold is to eliminate moisture. If there is a water issue in your attic, repair it immediately. Sometimes, simple fixes like adjusting gutters or fixing roof leaks can significantly reduce moisture levels. You can also use a dehumidifier to maintain dry conditions in the living area.
Step # 2: Cleaning Mold from Plywood
Once you’ve controlled the moisture, it’s time to focus on the mold. Here are the steps:
- Precautions: Before starting, cover the surrounding area with plastic sheeting to prevent spores from spreading. Wear protective gear to protect yourself, including goggles, masks, and rubber gloves.
- Vacuuming: A wet vacuum will help remove any damp patches, which is vital before applying any cleaning solution. Follow up with HEPA vacuuming to capture any loose mold particles.
- Wiping and Scrubbing: Mix a teaspoon of dish soap in a spray bottle filled with warm water. Shake the solution well and spray it over the mold. Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the mold away from the plywood. A solution of distilled white vinegar, baking soda, and water can be more effective for persistent mold. Spray it on, let it sit for a few hours, then rinse and dry the area thoroughly.
Step # 3: Alternative Methods
If the mold hasn’t penetrated deep into the wood, apply a borax solution or sanding techniques for deeper infestations. Sand the wood with 100-grit sandpaper, careful not to damage the surrounding wood.
- Drying: It’s crucial to leave the cleaned areas completely dry.
Since it can restore your attic, there’s a chance that some of the parts may get damaged due to porous material or rust. Always remember that if the infestation seems too large, consulting a professional is advisable.
Identifying the Appearance of Attic Polywood
Dealing with mold in the attic can be challenging for homeowners, but recognizing the signs early can make remediation more manageable.
Here’s how you can spot mold on your attic plywood:
- Black or green mold is commonly found on both treated and untreated plywood. These colors can indicate active mold growth.
- A stuffy attic often lacks proper ventilation, contributing to mold issues. On the other hand, a breezy and airy attic usually signifies good airflow.
- Wet insulation, especially during cold seasons, can harbor mold spores under the proper humidity and temperature conditions.
- Look for discoloration on the wood, such as dark spots or discolored areas. This is often a telltale sign of mold.
- Frost on the roof sheathing during colder months can be a precursor to mold growth due to excess moisture accumulation.
- Musty or mildew smells are red flags for mold presence, especially if the attic feels damp.
What’s the Catch?
When you act proactively and cater to the threats on time, the chances of mold growth on attic plywood are minimal. Since a long list of tasks can help you save your interior from its nasty mold, Only implementing some tips will make a significant difference.
You can call Ventiluxes so we can fix the issue for you while you save your precious time.
Leave a Reply