Why Painting Over Mold is a Poor Choice
If you’re in the midst of updating your home with a fresh coat of paint and discover a spot with mold, stop right there. You might think it will be no big deal to paint over the mold, but it could serve as a bigger danger than you initially thought.
A few negative outcomes of painting over mold include:
- Home structure problems
- Personal and family health issues
- Extensive home damage
- High costs to fix
You’re putting yourself as well as your family’s health at great risk when you leave mold untreated. According to the CDC, moldy environments may cause a multitude of respiratory system problems or severe allergies.
Painting over mold only hides the problem and doesn’t serve as a true solution. The moldy spot will continue to grow even after the paint dries. Left untreated, the mold will continue to saturate the wall or ceiling and eventually cause the need for complete ceiling or wall removal and replacement.
Signs of Paint Over Mold
If you moved into a new home recently and are worried that the previous owner did exactly what you’re not supposed to do, you may be able to spot where they painted over mold with these telling signs:
- Paint appears bubbled, chipped, or peeled
- Light-colored paint appears a darkened color
- Walls are bubbled or warped
- There is a strong musty or moldy odor
Mold can pop up anywhere in a home, particularly in areas of the house that are damp or lack proper air circulation. Watch out for the signs listed above in your home. If you suspect mold damage in your home, check out what the experts at CLEAR Restoration can do for you with a professional mold inspection.
How to Prevent Mold in Your Home During a Paint Job
The bottom line is painting over mold does not kill mold. Only paint that is mold-resistant or adding mold inhibitors to your paints works as a viable solution to help prevent mold growth. Prevention is key when it comes to protecting your home from mold. Take extra caution before painting your home by controlling the humidity levels in rooms where moisture dominates.
Taking the time to inspect your walls before painting, along with properly cleaning and drying walls, is a big step in preventing mold.
Found Mold Damage in Your Home? Call CLEAR Restoration
Have you started painting your home and found mold? Don’t hesitate to call CLEAR Restoration. Our team responds fast 24/7 to help assess the damage and keep you and your family safe.
