Question:
What should I do about mold spots on lumber while building a home?
Answer:
The media attention to mold recently—and the extreme cases usually presented in those accounts—has made homebuyers especially concerned about mold. You can remove spots of mold with a detergent (or bleach) solution (and a little scrubbing action). The fact sheet, “Helping your Buyers Understand Mold during the Building Process,” available at http://www.toolbase.org/ToolbaseResources/level4BP.aspx?ContentDetailID=1182&BucketID=5&CategoryID=24, would be appropriate to review and possibly share with the homebuyers.
After mold spots have been removed, allow lumber to dry (while stored properly), and be sure that the moisture content is less than 19 percent before enclosing lumber behind walls. You may need to talk with your lumber supplier about mold on lumber if it is a continuing problem.