How to Prevent the Mold and Mildew Menace on Your Paint Job

Mold and mildew can be a major problem if you own a home or property in Warsaw or Syracuse, Indiana. Many homeowners and DIY painters underestimate the impact mold and mildew growth can cause, at Matthews’ Painting Company, we give them the attention and seriousness they deserve.

Besides being unsightly in addition to the damage it can do to the infrastructure of your home, mold is a serious health risk. It can lead to allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and even headaches.

What exactly are Mold and Mildew, and how do they grow on walls?

Let’s dig a little deeper. Both mold and mildew are types of fungus that develop from airborne spores. They prefer warm, damp conditions that don’t have much airflow –this explains why bathrooms and loft spaces are more susceptible. Other than humid conditions and limited ventilation, plumbing and roof leaks are other common causes. Generally, mold tends to be grey, while mildew is characterized by dark spots that can spread quickly over a large area.

Mold and mildew are no new culprits in many homes across Syracuse and Warsaw, Indiana. Unless the building materials were treated against mold prior to occupation, even new homes are still susceptible to the menace. Having said that, below are a few tips on how to prevent mold from developing on your paint job.

Tips to Prevent Mold from Growing On Your Wall.

Choose Your Paint Wisely

Both your interior and exterior walls are susceptible to mold and mildew growth; all they need are favorable conditions. However, an effective mold prevention plan starts with choosing the right paint. Certain types of paint are more resistant to mildew and mold than others. In fact, there are a few brands that have been developed specifically for mold-susceptible areas.

Additionally, glossier, less porous paints tend to be a bit more resistant to mold growth compared to flat alkyd paint. Mold spores have difficulty adhering to gloss and semi-gloss paints. Painting products that contain linseed oil also attract mildew growth. While this should not necessarily limit your paint color choices, it’s worth noting that darker shades are less susceptible to mildew since they dry faster when it rains.

Lock Out Moisture and Ventilate

As you already know, mildew and mold thrive in moist places that have little air circulation. One way of preventing these fungi from thriving is by keeping your interior space as ventilated and moisture-free as possible –especially in smaller rooms such as the bathroom and kitchen. If your kitchen and bathroom are particularly prone to mold, consider opening windows or turning on the fan when boiling water or showering. Additionally, installing a fan in your laundry room is a good measure.

Regular Leak Detection

Detecting leaks in good time is a major step towards preventing mildew and mold growth. If roof or plumbing leaks go unchecked for long, mold and mildew can run wild, leading to even more expensive repairs. Fix leaks as soon as you detect them and always be on the lookout for any signs of mold and mildew.

Regular Cleaning

Cleaning areas that are prone to mold and mildew growth regularly is also important for preventing mold and mildew. The most commonly used solution is a Household bleach mixed with water at a rate of 3-Parts water and 1-Part Bleach. For the bathroom, kitchen, and other susceptible interior spaces, be sure to clean sinks, showers, and tubs on a regular basis, as well as porous surfaces like tile and grout. For the exterior, treat, and clean affected areas individually before power washing your entire siding.

Conclusion

Mold and mildew can be quite a menace. But using the above tips, you can easily prevent them from growing in your walls, ceilings, and other important structures. If you’re looking for a comprehensive solution to the mold and mildew menace that involves either pressure washing, staining, painting, paint touch-ups, or drywall repair, Matthews’ Painting Company can help.

We’re currently serving the areas of Warsaw Indiana, Syracuse Indiana, Lake Tippecanoe area, Winona Lake area, Columbia City, and surrounding Indiana cities. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment or for more information. (574) 834-3575