Getting the mold from a bathroom ceiling

Q. How can a moldy ceiling in a bathroom be prevented and how can I get rid of the mold? Mrs. Frederick Brand Winthrop, Maine

A. A mixture of Clorox bleach and water will inhibit the mold on that bathroom ceiling. The mixture can be anywhere from 4 ounces per gallon of water up to 8 or 10 ounces per gallon depending on the tenacity of the mold.

In most cases this washing will deter but not prevent recurrence.

Should the mold recur, you may need to provide extra ventilation. Usually, a ceiling or wall exhaust fan induces the needed air change and humidity reduction.

If you have a question on maintaining your house, send it to the real-estate editor, The Christian Science Monitor, One Norway Street, Boston, Mass. 02115. Forrest M. Holly is a longtime California builder now living in Arizona.