[Greenbuilding] mold question

[Benjamin Pratt]

Julie-
I've not much to add and agree with Bob's thorough response almost
completely. The one area where I'd differ is to have any drywall
repaired by someone with years of experience in the area. (if you
don't want it to look like crap). My best friend does drywall and says
it takes years to be good. Even the best all-around carpenters don't
do their own drywall. I do my own plumbing electric, framing, etc, but
do not do my own drywall. (of course I have a goood friend.)
   If it is drywall, to have the bad stuff cut out and new stuff put
in shouldn't cost more than 3-400 dollars (US). I've had to get this
done recently.
   Also, I'd definitely replace it if it is drywall, which it sounds
like it is. If it's plaster, it can dry out without any structural
loss and will not tend to support mold.
   As bob said, if you have allergies, definitely get it out of there.
Also, besides a respirator, whomever is doing the work should set up a
fan pulling the air out of the house while they are disturbing
(cutting out) the moldy stuff.
-Ben