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How We Remove Mould from Concrete Using Negative Air Pressure and HEPA Filtration | Brookvale NSW Case Study
- Michael Nguyen
- 1 day ago
- 5 min read
How We Remove Mould from Concrete Using Negative Air Pressure and HEPA Filtration | Brookvale NSW Case Study
By Michael Nguyen
Recently, our team completed a mould remediation project in Brookvale, NSW, where mould contamination had developed on exposed concrete surfaces following prolonged moisture exposure.
Unlike mould growing on painted plasterboard or timber, mould contamination on concrete often requires specialised mechanical cleaning methods to remove embedded fungal growth and restore the surface safely.
In this article and video, we demonstrate the exact process used by AAA Mould Removal, including negative air pressure setup, HEPA source capture, concrete grinding techniques, wire brushing, personal protective equipment (PPE), and our HEPA Sandwich cleaning process.
Watch the Video
This video was filmed during an actual mould remediation project completed by AAA Mould Removal in Brookhaven NSW.
🎥 Watch the full video here:
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Why Mould on Concrete Requires Specialised Treatment
Many homeowners assume mould can simply be wiped off concrete surfaces. While surface cleaning may temporarily improve appearance, it often fails to remove mould growth embedded within the concrete pores.
When mould contamination becomes established on concrete, mechanical cleaning is often required to remove the affected surface layer and physically remove fungal growth.
At AAA Mould Removal, we assess each project individually to determine the most appropriate remediation strategy.
Learn more about our professional mould remediation services:
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Step 1: Establish Negative Air Pressure
Before disturbing any mould-contaminated materials, we establish negative air pressure within the work area.
Negative air pressure is created using HEPA-filtered air scrubbers that continuously remove contaminated air from the remediation zone.
The purpose of negative air is to:
- Reduce airborne mould spore migration
- Protect adjacent rooms
- Improve worker safety
- Improve overall remediation outcomes
- Assist in maintaining containment integrity
Negative air is one of the most important engineering controls used during professional mould remediation.
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Step 2: Wear Appropriate PPE
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is critical when performing mechanical mould removal.
During this Brookhaven mould remediation project, PPE included:
- Respiratory protection
- Disposable coveralls
- Protective gloves
- Eye protection
- Hearing protection during grinding operations
Proper PPE helps minimise exposure to airborne contaminants generated during the cleaning process.
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Step 3: Connect the Makita Grinder to a HEPA Vacuum
One of the most important steps demonstrated in the video is connecting the Makita grinder directly to a HEPA-filtered vacuum system.
This technique is commonly known as source capture.
Source capture helps collect dust and contaminants at the point of generation before they become airborne.
Benefits include:
- Reduced airborne contamination
- Improved visibility during grinding
- Better indoor air quality
- Cleaner remediation environment
- Enhanced worker protection
Without HEPA source capture, grinding contaminated concrete can release large quantities of mould spores and particulate matter into the air.
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Step 4: Mechanically Remove Mould from the Concrete Surface
Once the negative air system is operating and source capture is connected, the contaminated concrete surface can be mechanically cleaned.
The Makita grinder removes the affected surface layer of concrete where mould growth has become established.
Mechanical removal is often required because mould can penetrate the microscopic pores and irregularities within concrete surfaces.
This process physically removes contamination rather than simply treating surface staining.
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Step 5: Use a Wire Brush for Detailed Cleaning
After grinding, a wire brush is used to clean areas that may be difficult for the grinder to reach.
Wire brushing assists with:
- Surface preparation
- Removal of residual contamination
- Cleaning corners and edges
- Improving final surface condition
Combining grinding with wire brushing provides a more thorough remediation outcome.
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Step 6: Apply the HEPA Sandwich Cleaning Process
One of the final steps shown in the video is the HEPA Sandwich method.
The HEPA Sandwich is a widely used remediation cleaning technique consisting of:
First HEPA Vacuum
Initial vacuuming removes loose spores, dust, and debris before cleaning activities begin.
Mechanical Cleaning
Grinding and wire brushing are performed to physically remove contamination.
Final HEPA Vacuum
A second HEPA vacuuming removes any remaining particulate matter generated during the cleaning process.
This approach helps ensure contaminants are effectively removed from the remediation area.
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Why HEPA Filtration Is Essential During Mould Remediation
HEPA filtration plays a critical role in professional mould remediation.
HEPA filters are designed to capture extremely small airborne particles, including mould spores generated during cleaning activities.
Throughout this Brookhaven remediation project, HEPA filtration was used to:
- Support negative air pressure
- Capture airborne contaminants
- Reduce cross-contamination risks
- Improve indoor air quality
- Assist with final cleaning procedures
Learn more about our mould testing and monitoring services:
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Professional Mould Removal Services in Brookhaven NSW
Brookhaven is a rapidly growing residential area where moisture issues can occur due to leaks, construction defects, condensation, flooding, or poor ventilation.
When mould contamination develops on concrete, timber, plasterboard, or structural surfaces, it is important to address both the mould growth and the underlying moisture source.
AAA Mould Removal provides professional services throughout:
- Brookhaven
- Bardia
- Edmondson Park
- Leppington
- Denham Court
- Campbelltown
- Liverpool
- Western Sydney
- Greater Sydney
We specialise in:
- Mould inspections
- Mould testing
- Mould remediation
- Structural drying
- Water damage restoration
- Indoor environmental investigations
Book a professional mould inspection:
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can mould grow on concrete?
Yes. Although concrete itself is not an organic food source, dust, dirt, moisture, and organic debris on concrete surfaces can support mould growth.
Why use a grinder to remove mould from concrete?
Mechanical grinding removes the contaminated surface layer and helps eliminate mould embedded within the concrete pores.
What is source capture?
Source capture refers to collecting dust and contaminants directly at the point of generation using a HEPA-filtered vacuum system.
Why is negative air pressure used?
Negative air pressure helps prevent airborne mould spores from escaping into unaffected areas during remediation.
What is the HEPA Sandwich method?
The HEPA Sandwich method involves HEPA vacuuming before cleaning, performing mechanical cleaning, and then HEPA vacuuming again after cleaning is completed.
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About the Author
Michael Nguyen is the founder of AAA Mould Removal and a leading expert in mould remediation and building science.
He is IICRC Certified in Water Damage Restoration, Applied Microbial Remediation and Applied Structural Drying. Michael studied Microbiology at RMIT University, is a licensed builder and carpenter with a Diploma in Building & Construction, and is currently pursuing a double Bachelor degree in Medical Science and Environmental Science at Macquarie University.
He specialises in residential and commercial mould removal, black mould treatment, water damage restoration and indoor environmental investigations throughout Sydney.
For professional mould inspections, mould testing, mould remediation and structural drying services, contact AAA Mould Removal today.
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