Much of the problem of mold has to do with common building materials, sheetrock being one of the main culprits. Although some materials seem almost immune to mold, others, such as paper-faced sheetrock or drywall, seem to be mold magnets.

When mold grows in an environment like drywall, it is often impossible to remove unless you completely remove the drywall itself. Soft, textured surfaces like this allow the mold to grow down deep into the fibers - creating a real health hazard for you and your family.

If you can't be certain that drywall is in an area that will stay dry and warm, use paperless sheetrock when you remodel.

When you are replacing drywall or building an addition, make certain there is 1/2-inch gap between the bottom of the drywall and concrete slab floor to prevent water from wicking up. 

Use cement backer board made from portland cement and fiberglass mesh (or a similar material without paper facing) when using behind tile in a shower or around a bathtub. 

The current standard for mold-resistant characteristics of drywall is ASTM D3273 Standard Test Method for Resistance to Growth of Mold on the Surface of Interior Coatings in an Environmental Chamber. This standard measures the ability of the drywall product to resist mold and mildew growth under certain prescribed moisture conditions, and a number of manufacturers quote the performance of their products when tested to this standard.

Stachybotrys is the name of a mold that specifically grows in drywall and has been a large problem in the DFW, North Texas area. When seeking professional mold remediation advice, ask the mold experts if stachybotrys might be one of the mold problems in your home.

Contact Terry Jensen at 972 251-1532 or 817 545-0140.

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