Cleaning and Stain Removal - Recarpeting moldy area

Hi all,

I recently ripped up some old nasty carpet and found a considerable amount of black mold under the padding. I have a feeling that this is due to a leak that since has been fixed. I have a couple questions:

1. How can I tell if the mold is dead or alive? The vast majority of it it is dry, while some smears.

2. After cleanup, is there a special paint or spray I can apply to the subfloor as some extra protection?

Thanks!

I'm sure there is some official way or requirement, but this is how I do it. I tear everything out, including tack strip. The stuff can be under it and you want to get it all. Then I clean it up as much as possible. I then use a paint roller and long handle so I can stand up while I work and roll straight bleach over the floor. If the entire floor isn't effected, I'll do the effected area and a bit more to make sure. Mold goes dormant when dry and springs right back when moisture hits it again and the bleach will kill it very dead and right now. I then paint the area with Kilz to seal it. This method has worked for me for years on moldy areas and pet urine damage. One thing I need to point out. I lived in a very low humidity climate at the time and that was the accepted practice there. I've never tried it in a high humidity area which may or may not affect the results. Not knowing your area, check it out first but my guess is it'll work.

Ok heres my thoughts....tear up everything tack strip and all..check lower parts of the walls..the leak may of caused damage there as well. Mop on a mixture of bleach and warm water...1/4 cup per gallon of water. Straight bleach i would advise against..this can cause heath concerns and is overkill...Place a fan and dehumidifer on there for a few days...Rinse with warm water..let dry again...If subfloor is concrete seal with a concrete sealer...if its wood make sure there is no further water damage and use a wood sealer. Let dry again for a few days...then recarpet

If this area is prone to moisture ie:basement, laundry room...i would suggest against using pad and always leave a dehumidifer in the room.