Removing mould from paint and wallpaper

ARTICLE Nikki Morris

On painted surfaces, mould looks like dirt, and frequently the two cannot be visually distinguished. The most common species are black, but others can be brown or green. By wetting the surface and rubbing, mould will show up as slime.
Mould is a major cause of paint disfigurement. It destroys the paint's fresh clean appearance, and if left unchecked it shortens the life of the paint film.
Unless removed within a few months of its appearance, mould penetrates the body of the existing film and once firmly established, will grow through subsequent paint coatings, impairing adhesion and ruining the appearance of the paint work.

What to do with mould on paint

Thoroughly clean down to remove all loosely adhered material. Treat areas of moss or mould infestation with Resene Moss and Mould Killer correctly diluted (see pack) with clean water.
As soon as the mould has been completely de-colourised (which indicates it has been killed) wash thoroughly with clean water to remove residues.
Once the moss and mould are completely removed and the surfaces have been correctly prepared, proceed with the Resene recommended paint system.
Mould is likely to occur in humid areas, such as bathrooms. Always make sure areas like these have adequate ventilation otherwise the mould is likely to reoccur.
Resene has a range of kitchen and bathroom products formulated with anti-bacterial silver and mould defenders to help inhibit bacteria and mould growth.

What to do with mould on wallpaper

The best advice would be (provided the wallpaper is 'washable') to use warm soapy water and a sponge or wallpaper cleaner.
Always wash according to the level of washability of the wallcovering and test a small inconspicuous area that you are washing first to make sure it's not going to discolour. Different wallpapers have different washable properties and will be affected by mould.

Resene: The paint the professionals use

Visit the Resene website for more painting and decorating tips.

 

This expert advice by Nikki Morris featured on page 36 of Issue 010 of Renovate Magazine. Renovate Magazine is an easy to use resource providing fresh inspiration and motivation at every turn of the page.

You might be interested in reading: How to prevent a damp, cold and mouldy home.

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*All information is believed to be true at time of publishing and is subject to change.