Mold – Attic: Procedure for Cleaning

Cause: The primary cause of attic mold is insufficient ventilation. Inspect the attic for clear bird blocks, no downed attic vents, and 1 sqft of peak ventilation for each 150 sqft of ceiling area. Homeowner to be advised if ventilation is inadequate, and to contact a roofing company to correct.

Testing: We will not submit to surface testing. Surface testing does not distinguish between live and dead spores. We will submit to air quality testing if and only if done the next day.

Insurance: Rarely does insurance cover attic mold remediation. Proceed accordingly.

IICRC: Presently the IICRC standard specifies abrasive means to remove mold. We do not follow this outdated method. It costs easily 2x, and up to 5x more than our modern method.

Timing: In the summer months attics are hottest in the afternoon. Best to perform work before noon.

Chemistry:

  • Chem Decon A/B for fogging

    • Recommend multiple cases

  • MSR+ for surface spray of sheathing

    • Recommended multiple cases

    • Note: Do not wear PuroClean hoodie near MSR+

Equipment:

  • PPE – Yellow coveralls, Full Face Respirator, gloves

    • OK to wear White PPE under Yellow.

  • Headlamp or attic space lighting

  • Multi-Sprayer® sprayer

    • Must be flushed out on-site or immediately upon return to shop

  • ULV fogger, Airofog

    • Must be flushed out on-site or immediately upon return to shop

  • Ladder

  • Shop Vacuum

  • Air Scrubber

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparation

  • Assess attic for mold on rafters, roof sheathing, insulation. Identify moisture sources and take photos. Ensure access is safe and equipment is staged. Install temporary lighting if needed.

  • Inspect insulation. If wet, remove and replace after treatment is complete.

Step 2: Safety and Containment

Wear full PPE. Position cover over attic hatch to contain dust. Place HEPA scrubber just outside entry point if space allows.

Step 3: Volume Fogging – Major Spore Knockdown, Surface Insulation Treatment, Sheathing Pre-Condition

Fog entire attic space with Artemis Chem Decon A & B using ULV fogger. Reach all sheathing, joists, insulation, and air volume. Let fog settle 20-30 minutes.

Step 4: Surface Cleaning – Remove Mold Stains

Spray Artemis MSR+ directly onto visible mold on sheathing.

Step 5: Volume Fogging – Minor Spore Knockdown, Surface Insulation Treatment, Sheathing Sealing

Again, fog entire attic space with Artemis Chem Decon A & B using ULV fogger. Reach all sheathing, joists, insulation, and air volume.

Step 6: Final Cleanup

Ensure entry zone is secured. Vacuum loose insulation that got on the floor.

Step 7: Documentation

Record photos, ATP results, chemical volumes used, insulation removed, and any follow-up recommendations.

By following this procedure, mold in attic spaces can be effectively treated without structural removal, restoring air quality and preventing recurrence.