Mold thrives in damp and dark spaces, so tiled floors and walls in wet areas like bathrooms make the perfect breeding ground for this microorganism. The most common causes of this problem include water trapped beneath the tiling, sloppy grouting jobs, and cracked tiles. For example, if the tiling is chipped or not installed properly, water will seep through the tile into the substrate beneath it. And as long as the area is dark, humid, and has plenty of food and air, mold will continue to grow and cause damage to your home. That’s why you need to take action the moment you see the first sign of mold growth under your tile floor.
Outline:
Signs of Mold Growth Under Tile Floors
Tips on Removing Mold Under Tiles
Mold Removal for Flooring Waco TX: DIY or Call a Pro?
Signs of Mold Growth Under Tile Floors
Discovering mold growth under tile floors is not an easy task since it is hidden. The problem is usually discovered only when the home is being renovated and the tiles are removed. By then, the mold infestation could be severe and expensive to fix. Scent is one of the most common indicators of a mold problem.
Is there a musty smell pervading the room? If no amount of scrubbing or cleaning can remove this odor, it’s most likely a mold problem. Broken or cracked tiles, grout, and caulking are common indicators that the waterproofing no longer works and mold is thriving behind your tiles. Other signs of mold growth include visible mold on tiles and bulging walls.
Tips on Removing Mold Under Tiles
You need to find and remove the source of moisture. The treatment approach will also differ, depending on the extent of damage you’re dealing with. For instance, tiny areas of mold growth can be treated with a solution of one cup of borax and one-gallon water. First, seal the affected room with a plastic sheet. Next, remove the floor trim and tiles. Apply the borax solution to the entire floor. After 15 minutes, scrub the area using a plastic brush with stiff bristles and pour another coating of the solution. After 10 minutes, vacuum the floor. Lastly, remove mold from the tiles and retile the floor.
Don’t forget to wear a respirator, goggles, rubber gloves, and clothes that fully cover your skin before you start any mold removal or cleanup. The area should also have proper ventilation. If you’re dealing with a serious mold problem, you should call a professional to do the job for you.
Mold Removal for Flooring Waco TX: DIY or Call a Pro?
If the mold problem requires flooring replacement and specialized equipment, you need to work with a remediation professional. Don’t try to remove it by yourself as you might end up causing more damage to your flooring. Mold remediation professionals will assess the severity and extent of the problem and give you a quote.After getting your approval, they’ll set a time and date to start the mold remediation process. To guarantee everyone’s safety, they may ask you to leave the room or house while they’re working. After removing the contaminated materials, they will apply a preventative treatment to your sub-flooring to prevent mold growth. If you want to learn more about tile flooring, contact us today at 254-772-3450. We also offer free quotes on Waco flooring installation, so feel free to call us and speak with one of our experts.