How is mold growth on wood framing best removed?

Mold growth on wood framing is best removed through abrasive methods or treatment. This approach involves physically removing the mold from the wood surface, which is often necessary because mold can form deep roots, or hyphae, that penetrate the wood fibers. Abrasive methods may include sanding or media blasting, which effectively disrupt the mold structure and remove it from the wood.

In contrast, while chemical cleaning agents can be helpful in killing mold spores and preventing their regrowth, they may not completely remove the physical presence of mold that has penetrated into the wood. Chemical treatments can also leave residues that might attract moisture or create a nurturing environment for new mold growth if not rinsed or handled appropriately.

Thermal treatments can include using heat to eliminate mold, but this method is less effective for wood framing as it may not adequately penetrate the material to affect deeply rooted mold. Similarly, dry ice blasting can be used for mold removal, but it isn’t exclusively effective for all types of mold or surfaces, and like thermal treatments, it may not always ensure complete removal from porous materials like wood.

Therefore, abrasive methods provide a hands-on approach that ensures thorough cleaning by physically removing both surface-level and some embedded mold from wood framing, making it the preferred option for effective