Home expert reveals why you should NEVER paint over mould – you might be damaging your health & could even lose money
IT might be tempting to get out the paintbrush if you’re suffering from mould in your home.
And while it might seem like a quick fix, home experts have revealed it’s one of the worst things you can do – as it could even be damaging your health.
“Painting over mould does not get rid of the problem, it only temporarily hides it,” Michael Rolland from The Paint Shed explained.
“Mould spores can penetrate through paint, leading to continued growth beneath the surface.
“If left unchecked, this can reportedly lead to respiratory issues, allergies, or even trigger asthma attacks.”
Painting over mould can even lead to structural damage, Michael warned
“Mould weakens surfaces over time, leading to the potential deterioration of walls, ceilings, and other structures,” he said.
“Ignoring the underlying issue of mould growth can result in costly repairs later down the line that could cost you hundreds of pounds to fix.”
He added that it’s “crucial” for homeowners to understand that “mould thrives in moist environments”.
“Simply covering up mould with paint does not address the root cause,” he said.
“If you don’t deal with it head-on you’re only allowing it to spread to other areas of your home.”
And while there are tonnes of anti-mould paints on the market, Michael said that it may help “prevent future mould growth”, but won’t deal with pre-existing mould.
“Applying anti-mould paint over existing mould may not fully eradicate the issue, as mould can persist beneath the surface and continue to pose health risks,” he continued.
“Properly dealing with the underlying moisture issues (and possibly even consulting with a professional mould specialist) is essential to solve your mould problem.”
When it comes to dealing with mould yourself, you have to “address both the symptoms and their underlying causes”.
You can ensure your home is well-ventilated by keeping windows open as much as possible, and can use dehumidifiers to reduce the moisture level in damp areas.
In non-porous areas, you can use a mix of one part bleach to three parts water – apply, let it sit for 10 minutes and then rinse and dry the area.
But don’t use bleach for porous areas as it can cause damage.
Instead consider using a mixture of vinegar and water.
“Remember, these measures are temporary fixes,” he concluded.
“Long-term solutions involve fixing leaks, improving insulation, and ensuring your home’s exterior is properly maintained to prevent water getting in.
“If mould coverage is extensive or if health concerns arise, seek professional help.
“It might not be a DIY solution, but it will be better for your home and your health in the long run.”