Paint that Kills Mildew

Detecting Mildew

• Fuzzy or powdery patches of green, black, red or brown visible on the painted surface of walls, wood, vinyl and aluminum may indicate mildew growth. Mildew is a common source of paint discoloration and can eat through paint, exposing a bare and unprotected surface. One way to determine if a surface is contaminated with mildew or dirt is by placing a drop of household bleach on the spotted area. In about two minutes, the mildew will bleach out; dirt will not.

Killing Mildew

• If mildew is not killed before applying new paint, it may grow through the paint. The Cooperative Extension Service at Purdue University recommends killing mildew with a bleach solution. Scrubbing the area affected by mildew with a bleach solution consisting of 1/3 cup household detergent, 1 quart household bleach and 3 quarts warm water will kill the mildew. After cleaning the mildewed area, rinse with fresh water, avoiding splashing the solution on yourself or others, as well as pets, grass and bushes.

Paint

• Some paint finishes are more prone to mildew growth than others are. Water-based latex paint finishes without much sheen, such as flat or eggshell, are highly susceptible to mildew, according to Northwest Renovation's website. Glossy latex paints and oil or latex enamels are less porous and not conducive to mildew growth. Paints containing zinc oxide are more mildew-resistant than those formulated with titanium dioxide. Also, paints that contain linseed oil are susceptible to mildew growth.

Mildewcides

• Mildewcides, special chemicals, are sometimes added to paint, making the paint mildew-resistant. If a paint doesn't come premixed with a mildewcide, paint retailers can often add it to a paint prior to purchase. Mildewcides do not eliminate any existing fungus but do prevent new mildew growth. Avoid using mildewcide-enhanced paints on doorframes, windowsills or any other area that small children may put their mouth on and ingest.