Tim,
We have a contactor building our new home. The foundation and framing were completed several weeks ago and then we began to get lots of rain (almost two weeks solid). Then, the roof decking was put up - no shingles yet - and we have received another week and a half of rain, with more on the horizon - we live on the Texas Gulf Coast. My concern is that the framing now appears to dark gray, almost black appearance in places. Is that mold? Is this something that we should be concerned about? If so, is there anything we can do about it?
Thanks so much! Kristi
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Kristi,
Based upon your description, it sure sounds like mildew blossoming to me. It is nothing to worry about at this point as it can be somewhat easily removed.
The first thing to do is to get the house under roof and dried out as soon as possible. I realize you have little control over this. Once this is done, you or the builder need to spray a 50/50 solution of chlorine bleach and water onto the wood surfaces that have discolored. If the chlorine bleach method is too harsh, you can use oxygen bleach. Oxygen bleach will remove the mildew and is totally non-toxic to you or any other person who comes into contact with it.
Tim Carter
www.askthebuilder.com
W3ATB