Home Garden

Painting Over a Mold Stain

Mold isn't simply unsightly; it's a serious health hazard. Airborne mold particles can cause stuffy noses, itchy eyes and skin irritation in healthy adults. Families with young children, however, should know that extended exposure to mold can lead to respiratory disease, a weakened immune system and other serious disorders. Fortunately, most household mold problems can be resolved successfully by the homeowner. Simply eliminate the root cause of the mold infestation, remove the stain itself and apply a paint that will keep mold away in the extended future.

Things You'll Need

  • Spray bottle
  • White Vinegar
  • Paper towels
  • Anti-microbial paint
  • Paint brush or roller
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Instructions

    • 1

      Repair any source of water infiltration on your walls, such as overflowing gutters, leaking pipes or leaky roofs. If your indoor humidity is excessive, begin using a dehumidifier. Mold thrives on wet surfaces, so it's important eliminate the sources of excessive moisture that can enable the growth of mold.

    • 2

      Spray the stain with white vinegar using a common spray bottle. Wait five minutes before wiping off any excess moisture with a disposable paper towel. Allow the wall to dry off, then repeat this process. All or most of your surface discoloration should disappear from the wall. Independent laboratory testing has confirmed that vinegar is at least 80 percent effective at killing household mold.

    • 3

      Apply two coats of a mildewcide paint or anti-microbial paint by brush or roller. For best results, select a paint that has been registered with the Environmental Protection Agency to eliminate the growth of mold and mildew. Some of these paints offer a multi-year mold-preventative performance guarantee.