How to Remove Mold From Wood Safely

Why does mold grow on wood?

Wood is organic and absorbs moisture, so it gives mold both food and water. Framing, trim and subfloors can grow mold when kept damp by leaks, condensation or contact with damp concrete or soil.

What is the difference between mold and wood rot?

Mold mainly grows on the surface. Wood-decay fungi break down the fibers and weaken the wood. Wood that is soft, crumbles or gives under a screwdriver needs a carpenter, not cleaning.

How do you clean mold off wood?

For small areas of sound wood, EPA guidance for hard surfaces is to scrub with detergent and water and dry completely. Wear an N95 respirator, gloves and goggles, and keep the wood dry afterward so growth does not return.

What about mold on wood furniture and floors?

Small surface growth on sealed furniture can be cleaned and dried. Unfinished or deeply stained wood, or wood floors that cup or buckle, point to moisture in or under the wood, and the cause must be fixed.

Can moldy framing, joists and sheathing be saved?

Sound framing with surface mold can often be cleaned in place by a remediation crew and dried. Wood that is structurally weak has to be repaired or replaced by a carpenter.

How do you know the wood is dry?

A moisture meter measures moisture content in wood. We use one during remediation so wood is dry before anything is closed up.

Next steps and related help

If you would rather have a professional handle it, these are the services that apply:

Emergency Wood Mold Removal in Littleton, CO: Mold on framing, joists, roof sheathing, subfloor and trim, cleaned or replaced as needed.
Emergency Attic Mold Removal in Littleton, CO: Remediation for roof-deck, insulation and framing mold caused by leaks or poor venting.
Emergency Crawl Space Mold Removal in Littleton, CO: Cleanup of mold on joists, subfloor and insulation in crawl spaces.

Keep reading:

We help homeowners in Littleton, Southeast Littleton and Centennial, Columbine, Columbine Valley and Bow Mar, Ken Caryl, Highlands Ranch, Roxborough. Call (303) 555-0142 or request a free estimate, or go back to the ZoneGuard home page to see everything we do. We do mold remediation only, so any testing or clearance sampling is done by an independent assessor.

Frequently asked questions

How do I remove mold from wood?

For small areas of sound wood, scrub with detergent and water, dry completely and fix the moisture. Weak or soft wood needs a carpenter.

What kills mold on wood permanently?

Nothing kills it permanently while the wood stays damp. Removing growth and keeping the wood dry is what lasts.

How do I get rid of black mold on wood?

Black color does not tell you the species. Treat it as any mold: clean sound wood, replace weak wood and fix the moisture.

Is mold on wood the same as rot?

No. Mold mainly grows on the surface, while wood-decay fungi break down wood and weaken it.