How Do You Remove Mold Stains From Wood Floors?
Wood floors are beautiful and practical. But, if you allow water to stand on the surface, the finish will stain and mold may grow. This is especially true with water-based finishes, and in humid climates. • Wash the floor or the affected area with an oil soap recommended for the cleaning of wood. Run a fan during the cleaning, as this will help the floor to dry quickly. • Use a scraper to scrape once along the surface to remove the surface layer of mold. The scraper will be a piece of metal approximately 8 inches wide, a few inches high, and 1/4 of an inch thick. Just press into the wood with the edge and pull along. Be sure to pull with the grain of the wood. • Use a sanding sponge labeled “finish removal”, or indicating a rating of approximately 180 grit. Sand with the grain (moving the sponge in the same direction as the grain) to remove the mold. • Attack remaining areas of mold. If necessary use a tiny amount of diluted clorox bleach to remove any stubborn spots. Be careful as you
One of the main benefits of hardwood flooring is that it lasts much longer than most other types of flooring. Wood flooring can withstand all types of dirt and traffic for years to come. However, if you get mold stains on your wood floors, you’ll want to remove them to avoid major damage. Protect your hands with a pair of rubber gloves when removing mold stains. Run a mid-size scraper along the mold stain to scrape away the top layer of the stain. Sand the area gently with a sanding sponge. Purchase a sponge that’s 180 grit. You’ll loosen and remove the mold completely from the spot. Remember to sand along the wood grain of the floor and not against it. Clear away the debris. Purchase a hardwood finish that matches the rest of the floor. Apply a thin, even coat to the area you cleaned and sanded. Let it dry and then apply a second coat if needed.
