Hey everyone, I'm looking for some guidance on dealing with mould and drywall issues. We recently pulled out some old cabinets in our basement and discovered signs of water damage and mould. The water stains look old and there's no moisture right now. The affected area seems to be around our upstairs bathroom and laundry room. We just moved in and a lot of renovations were done on the main floor, so I can't tell if this is a recurring issue. Can I tackle this myself or should I hire a professional? I've included a link to some images for reference.
2 Answers
I highly recommend cutting out the affected drywall and replacing it. This way, you can check for leaks or any additional damage. If you're worried about health issues like asthma or allergies, grab a reusable 3M respirator for protection. Make sure to cut out a section that’s larger than the mouldy area so you don’t disturb it too much.
Yep, cutting out the old drywall is the best move. If you want to minimize mould spores when you do this, try spraying the area with a mix of vinegar and water or peroxide and water before removing it. Just a heads up, you mentioned both the basement and main floor; if the mould is in the basement, there may be ongoing moisture issues you’ll need to address, especially around the vapor barrier and insulation.
Sorry for any confusion! It’s actually in the basement ceiling but under the main floor bathroom. Seems like cutting it out to investigate is the way to go. Thanks!
Thanks! We plan to cut it out and see what’s going on behind the walls!