Damp weather is a common challenge for many households in the UK, and with winter on the horizon, the likelihood of mould growth is expected to rise.
However, it’s important to know how to deal with it properly or letting an expert remove it before causing even bigger issues.
Experts at The Paint Shed have noticed that Google searches for “can I paint over mould” have surged by 278 percent over the past three months.
Alarmingly, the search term “how to paint over mould” attracts approximately 60,000 searches each year.
Experts are concerned that many Brits may be pursuing ineffective quick fixes that won’t adequately address the problem, leading to costly repairs, or in the worst of cases, health issues.
Although it may appear to be a straightforward solution, the experts warned against attempting to cover mould with paint, including anti-mould varieties, due to the serious health risks involved.
Michael Rolland from The Paint Shed explained: “Painting over mould does not get rid of the problem, it only temporarily hides it. 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.
“It’s not just your health you need to watch out for, though. Painting over mould can cause structural damage to the affected area.
“Mould weakens surfaces over time, leading to the potential deterioration of walls, ceilings, and other structures. 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 highlighted: “It’s crucial for homeowners to understand that mould thrives in moist environments, often indicating underlying moisture problems such as leaks or inadequate ventilation.
“Simply covering up mould with paint does not address the root cause. If you don’t deal with it head-on you’re only allowing it to spread to other areas of your home.”
Although anti-mould paint can help prevent future growth, it shouldn’t be relied upon for treating existing mould, according to the experts. Covering mould with this type of paint may not eliminate the problem, as mould can remain hidden underneath and still pose health risks.
The experts pointed out that, to effectively tackle mould, it’s important to address both the symptoms and their root causes.
Start by improving ventilation in your home—open windows regularly to promote air circulation, especially in moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Using dehumidifiers in damp spaces can help lower humidity levels.
When cleaning mould, be sure to wear protective gear such as gloves and a mask to avoid inhaling spores.
For non-porous surfaces, a mixture of one part bleach to three parts water can work well. Apply the solution, let it sit for 10 minutes, and then rinse and dry the area thoroughly.
For porous surfaces, opt for a vinegar and water mixture, as bleach can harm these materials.
But these methods are only a temporary fix, as long-term solutions require addressing leaks, enhancing insulation, and maintaining your home’s exterior to prevent water infiltration.
