Have you noticed your painted walls cracking or peeling? you may have a mould problem. 

Mould and mildew growing on paint is not only unsightly, but can cause allergies and serious respiratory conditions, as well as damage your walls if left untreated. Here’s our helpful guide on how to get mould off paint, its health implications and when it’s time to call in a professional mould removal specialist. 

How to Get Mould Off Paint

For minor spot removal, you can use one of the below DIY methods across painted surfaces, however these will only act as temporary treatments and will not stop mould from returning.  

If you’re concerned about toxic black mould growing on your walls, it is best to hire a mould removal company to safely handle the situation.

They will be able to safely remove the mould and provide you with an effective management plan to help prevent mould from returning. 

How to Get Rid of Mould on Painted Walls Yourself

If you choose to remove mould from a painted surface yourself, it is important that you wear the appropriate protective gear. To prevent inhaling mould spores, a mask, gloves and goggles should be worn whilst removing mould. This will save you from inhaling or coming into contact with invisible mould spores. For temporary mould removal, you can use the following: 

Vinegar:   

1. Add 2 cups of hot water, ¼ cup of vinegar and 2 tablespoons of borax to a spray bottle. 
2. Spray the solution on the wall and use a scrub brush to loosen the mould spores.  
3. Wipe the visible mould off the wall with an old rag and discard when you’re finished. 
4. Spray the area again and let it sit for 10 minutes. Wipe away with a different cloth.  

Bleach:  

1. Dilute 1:3 bleach and water (undiluted bleach will likely damage the paint – ALWAYS check the guidelines of the product before use.)  
2. Find a hidden area of the wall and test the solution before using it to clean the mould. Let sit on the painted wall for 20-30 minutes to make sure it doesn’t damage the paint.  
3. Apply the bleach solution with a sponge and wipe away the mould.  
4. Wipe the bleach off the wall with a clean rag or sponge after cleaning.  

Never combine bleach with vinegar. When combined, they can create a toxic gas. 

It is also important to note that DIY mould removal treatments are only a temporary solution. Seeking out a professional mould removal service team can help remove the mould safely and provide a long-term plan for future prevention.  

Is Mould on Painted Walls Dangerous?

Yes. Mould growth on walls will not only ruin your paint’s aesthetic touch, it can also pose the risk of respiratory problems developing. Overexposure to mould can be dangerous to your health, especially to those with weak immune systems like children, the elderly and people with underlying health conditions. Common symptoms associated with inhaling mould spores can include: 

• Headaches 
• Coughing 
• Dizziness 
• Fever 

In some cases, exposure to mould can lead to more serious health problems. Symptoms of black mould poisoning can include: 

• Vomiting 
• Nausea 
• Respiratory complications 
• Asthma

What Causes Mould to Grow on Paint?

Mould grows on painted surfaces due to an accumulation of moisture and thrives in warm, damp conditions without adequate airflow. Activities like taking a shower or bringing in items that carry a lot of moisture, like firewood, all increase moisture levels in the home. Apart from humidity and lack of ventilation, mould can also grow on paint due to poor plumbing and roof leaks.  

What Are the Signs of Black Mould on Paint?

Black mould growth may not always be visible, and even when it is, it typically grows in hidden areas, such as behind walls, crawl spaces and in the ceiling. Once you spot mould growing on your walls, chances are its spores have already started to spread. Some early warning signs to look out for include: 

• Odd musty smell or odour 
• Moisture or condensation 
• Cracked or peeling paint 
• Bulging and discolouration 

How to Prevent Mould Growing on Paint

Preventing mould growth on paint is far less tedious than getting it removed. Here are some tips you can follow to help prevent mould from growing on your walls and in your home: 

• Choose Your Paint Wisely: Certain types of paint are more resistant to mildew and mould than others. There are several brands that have been developed specifically for mould prone areas. Additionally, mould spores have difficulty adhering to gloss and semi-gloss paints.  
• Ventilate Your Home: Mould thrives in moist areas that lack adequate ventilation, so it’s important to keep your space well ventilated. In areas particularly prone to mould, like the kitchen and bathroom, try to keep windows open or turn on the fan when showering, cooking or boiling water.  
• Leak Detection: Detecting leaks quickly is key for preventing mould growth. If roof or plumbing leaks go unattended for a period of time, mould and mildew growth will thrive.  
• Adjust Your Cooling System Settings: You can also use a dehumidifier on humid days or set your air conditioner to ‘dry mode’ when in use.  

When to Call a Mould Removal Professional

If you are afraid of mould on your paint becoming a problem in your home and are looking for a long-term solution, be sure to call upon a professional team to help you. The MouldMen team will inspect, treat and provide you with a Mould Management and Prevention Plan to ensure that your home is kept safe and free from mould. Call us on 1300 60 59 60 to book your free inspection today.