ANSWERS: 1
  • <h4 class="dechead">On One Hand: Painting Will Not Kill Mold

    Painting over mold will only cover it up. In fact, painting can give the mold a dark, wet place to continue growing. Never paint a moldy surface, even with forms of paint that claim to kill mold. The United States Environmental Protection Agency recommends scrubbing mold off of hard surfaces with a detergent and water solution. Absorbent or porous surfaces may need to be thrown away. Bleach is not recommended for cleaning up mold as it is excessively harsh and will not completely eliminate the mold problem. The most important thing is to control the moisture that is allowing the mold to grow.

    On the Other: Painting Can Prevent Mold

    Painting an area previously affected by mold once it has been thoroughly cleaned can be a good preventive measure. Using the right kind of paint seals the area and keeps it being further affected by moisture that breeds mold. Be sure to find a type of paint that will act as a sealant.

    Bottom Line

    Painting will not kill mold. The affected area must be thoroughly cleaned prior to painting. However, paint can act as a sealant to prevent future mold outbreaks.

    Source:

    US EPA: Mold Cleanup Guidelines

    US EPA: Should I use bleach to clean up mold?

    CMHC Homeowners' Guide: Fighting Mold

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