Mold is a common occurrence in many homes, but dealing with it may not be as simple as you think. If not treated quickly, growing mold can harm your health.
England’s National Health System (NHS) warns that inhaling or coming into contact with mold spores can cause allergic reactions or even more serious health problems such as bronchitis and asthma attacks.
Because you shouldn’t paint over the mold
Your first thought when you spot mold may be to simply paint it. But this is probably one of the worst things you can do.
Expert Michael Rolland from The Paint Shed explains: “Painting over mold doesn’t get rid of the problem, it just hides it temporarily. Mold spores can penetrate the paint, leading to continuous growth beneath the surface.”
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Michael explains that mold is an issue that needs more attention than just painting. “Mold weakens surfaces over time, leading to potential deterioration of walls, ceilings and other structural elements.”
“Ignoring the underlying problem of mold growth can lead to expensive repairs later, which can cost hundreds of euros to remediate.” “It’s important for homeowners to understand that mold thrives in moist environments, often indicating underlying moisture problems such as leaks or inadequate ventilation.”
Can you use anti-mould paint?
Anti-mold paint is a preventative measure which means it will prevent mold growth in the future, but it won’t help if you already have a mold problem.
Michael advises: “To solve the mold problem, it is essential to properly address the moisture problems that cause it. You may even need to consult a professional in dealing with mold.”
How to deal with mold at home
If you want to treat mold at home yourself, you will need to address both the cause and the symptoms. The first step is to thoroughly clean the infected area.
Michael suggests:
“For non-porous surfaces, a solution of one part bleach to three parts water can be effective.”
“Apply the solution, leave it on for 10 minutes, then rinse and dry the area thoroughly.”
“For porous surfaces, however, consider using a mixture of vinegar and water, as bleach can damage them.”
How to prevent mold
Mold often grows due to moisture in the home. The best way of prevention is to ensure proper ventilation of your space.
Ventilation: Open windows regularly, especially when drying clothes or cooking. This helps to remove moisture and prevent mold.
Dehumidifiers: You can use dehumidifiers to remove excess moisture from your space.
Electric dehumidifiers: They are very effective in combating mold and moisture, but they cost more.
Non-electric dehumidifiers: They are economical but need regular replacement.
Note: In cases of intense humidity and mold, it is recommended to keep the windows open for better ventilation. You can also use a special anti-mold treatment or call in an expert for more serious problems.
How to remove mold from your home easily and economically
Mold can appear in various parts of our home, creating an unsightly image and possibly health issues. But don’t worry! There are easy and cheap ways to remove it.
The most common solution is bleach, ideal for those who don’t have or don’t want to buy special mold cleaners.
What you will need:
Chlorine
Water (4 parts water to 1 part bleach)
Hard brush
Two buckets: one with the solution and one with clean water and cloth
Cloth for drying
Instructions:
Make the solution: Mix 4 parts water to 1 part bleach in the bucket.
Protect yourself: Wear gloves and a mask during the procedure.
Apply the solution: Spray or spread the solution on moldy areas, covering a few inches around the visible mold to kill any spores you can’t see yet.
Scrub hard: Use the stiff brush to scrub the infected areas thoroughly.
Rinse: Leave the solution on for as long as possible, ideally until the mold is gone. Then rinse the surfaces thoroughly with clean water and a cloth from the other bucket.
Drying: Gently wipe the area with the drying cloth and allow it to dry completely before moving furniture or placing objects in front of it.
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