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Leavingmold on wallsand ceilings can lead to even more mold or damage to the house.
But is painting over the mold an option?
Meet the Expert
Can You Paint Over Mold?
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Painting directly over mold is not recommended, say the experts.
“You cannot paint over mold as a remediation effort,” says HomeCleanse founder Michael Rubino.
But don’t some contractors paint over mold anyway?
Yes, technically, you’re able to paint over mold, says painting expert Carr Lanphier.
“Ive definitely seen people do this,” Lanphier says.
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The mold continues to grow and may show through the paint or cause it to peel.
Cosmetic Solution
Painting over mold is a stop-gap solution at the very best, Lanphier says.
Tip
Has a previous owner painted over mold?
Run your hand over the painted surface.
A bumpy, sandpaper-y, or uneven texture may indicate that mold has been painted over.
“Mold develops roots, called hyphae, as it colonizes on a surface,” Rubino explains.
Without doing so, says Rubino, the mold can grow right back when theres another water source.
“Painting over it will not kill existing mold, and it will not prevent it from spreading further.
So, you will eventually see more mold cropping up even through a new layer of paint.”
Paint Damage
Another problem with painting over mold is that the paint may not remain stable.
Stop the Source
“Resolve whatever is causing the mold first before painting,” Lanphier says.
“That should really be your priority.”
Where do you find the source?
Byler suggests asking yourself, “Whats causing the mold?
Is it a leak?
A lack of air circulation?
Figure out whats behind the growth.”
Cover the Surface
Finish by painting the surface.
This is not the same as painting over mold.
Instead, the mold has been killed and its dead remnants have been removed.
Byler suggests selecting a water-based or latex paint.
Avoid oil-based paints, as they can actually worsen a mold problem.
