Mould is a common and serious problem in Australian homes. It can damage the air quality, your belongings and even the structural integrity of the property. Mould doesn’t just appear without a cause, so when you spot it, you may need to investigate the root of the issue.
Here, we’ll show the most common reasons why mould grows on walls, how to prevent it and when to call in the experts.
Why Does Mould Grow on Walls?
Mould not only loves moisture, but it also needs it. If there is condensation, spills or a moisture build-up, then mould will come. There are three main causes of mould on walls:
- Humidity
- Water damage
- Condensation
The most common areas where this is likely to occur are the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom, particularly when moisture or condensation appears on the walls or window sills. When mould appears on walls it is very difficult to stop the spores from rapidly spreading, forming new colonies around the space and travelling through the rest of the house.
Mould on Bathroom and Kitchen Walls
Bathrooms and kitchens areas easily attract mould because of their high levels of moisture and condensation. It’s simple math: enclosed areas with exposure to large amounts of steam and humidity without adequate ventilation equals mould.
When this occurs, it usually grows in the following places:
- Walls and ceilings around or over the bath and shower
- In between tiles on kitchen splashbacks – especially in the cooking areas
- Behind doors or along window ledges
- Under the kitchen sink
- In appliances with exposure to moisture or are not cleaned and dried regularly
To prevent mould from growing through the walls, use ventilation, exhaust fans and a dehumidifier (especially in high-humidity climates). If you suspect that a larger problem is causing mould growth, such as leaking pipes or water damage, then reach out to a professional mould removal service team.
Mould on Bedroom Walls
Bedrooms are often exposed to higher levels of condensation build-up, especially around window sills and door frames. When you pair this with inadequate ventilation (especially in wardrobes, under beds or furniture), it gives mould a better chance of taking hold.
Mould in the bedroom can easily spread around window sills and walls before making its way to your personal belongings and clothes. Without treatment, mould will end up damaging the air quality of the room and may cause health problems as a result.
Make sure the bedroom gets plenty of ventilation in the morning by opening the door or windows to allow the stale air to escape. It’s also a good idea to clean out the wardrobe or under the bed regularly.
Signs of Mould on Walls
Mould is sneaky. It’s not always visible, and even when it is, it loves to grow in areas that are hard to spot straight away. Unfortunately, when you do begin to see mould appear, chances are its trillions of mould spores are already making a home for themselves. Here are some signs to help you notice you have a mould problem:
- An odd musty, earthy or sour smell
- Moisture or condensation
- Water damage or leaking pipes
- Cracked or peeling paint
- Bulging and discolouration
How to Remove Mould from Walls
Do not attempt to clean or remove large patches of mould or a mould infestation on your own or you will put yourself at risk of inhaling mould spores.
For minor spot removal, you can use mould washes across painted surfaces as a temporary solution. Using a store-bought mould wash you can do the following:
- Prepare the surface of the wall by gently scrubbing it over with a hard-bristle brush until it has a smooth finish.
- Wash down the area with diluted was treatment and a sponge. Make sure to follow the directions of the treatments
- Allow the area to dry thoroughly
While mould-wash treatments are available, they can be unsafe to use and is not recommended for large mould patches. If attempting small mould spot removal, wear protective gear such as gloves, a face mask and protective eyewear to avoid inhaling mould spores and toxin fumes.
Even with mould-wash treatments, it is extremely difficult to remove mould permanently. Mould can be hazardous to your health, so it is important to contact a professional mould removal service team and organise an inspection and treatment plan. A professional service can also address water-damaged areas and offer structural drying services to ensure your household is protected against mould returning.
When to Call a Mould Removal Professional
If you are afraid of mould 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.