Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 2/22/2010

Question
Running tightly alongside our stucco house concrete foundation was plastic sheeting that trapped moisture and created mold. We've removed the plastic and treated the concrete foundation with clorox.

On the same wall indoors, we've removed all drywall and insulation. The insulation was moldy and tar paper smelled of mold. Not wanting to disturb the integrity of the structure by breaking the moisture seal, we've applied to the tar paper 15 daily treatments with clorox. The mold smell persists.  

Can we replace the tar paper from the inside and re-create the integrity of the moisture seal? How? Or must the stucco come off?

Thanks for your input.

Answer
Hi john, yes that is a nasty business, mold.  I think you are on the right track with the bleach.  Try following up the bleach treatment with MOLD ARMOR..it can be found in Home Depot in the paint department.  We have had some good success with these products.
If the tar paper is in decent condition I wouldn't try to replace it from the inside you will destroy the vapor barrier.  A good paint job on the exterior is also important to keep the water from penetrating your stucco.
As far as the smell goes, see how it smells after the Armor products do their thing.  I think you will see the smell abate over a period of time as long as you keep the mold killed.
I hope this information helps, please feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com