Mildew is a descriptive form of the effects that mold has on wood or other surfaces. When mold is introduced to a wood surface, mold spores cause wood discoloration and if left untreated threaten the integrity of the wood by transforming it into decaying fungi. Areas prone to high humidity or locations in the home with near-constant air moisture, such as bathrooms, are prone to mildew development on wood. Removing mildew from wood beams is done through a manual application of a mold-killing solution.
Instructions
1. Put on protective eyewear, face mask and protective gloves. Wear clothing you do not mind getting dirty, as the may have a bleaching action if it comes in contact with your clothing.
2. Mix 1 cup boric acid with 4 cups hydrogen peroxide and 4 cups white vinegar in a large mixing bowl and stir the ingredients for one minute with a wooden spoon.
3. Dip a large kitchen sponge into the mildew-killing solution. Liberally apply a coat of the solution to the where the mildew has formed. Allow the first coat to dry for five minutes before applying a second and third coat. After applying the third coat of the solution, allow the beams to dry for 45 minutes.
4. Remove leftover mildew spores from the wood beams by sanding with a coarse (40 to 60 grit) sandpaper. Sand down the wood beam in a circular motion; however, do not sand too much of the wood away -- only enough to remove the surface where the mildew was present.
5. Fill a spray bottle with the solution made in Step 1. Liberally spray the solution onto the freshly sanded wood beams. This may kill any remaining mildew spores and protect the newly exposed wood surface.
Tags: wood beams, coat solution, from , hydrogen peroxide, mildew spores
