Can you paint over mold?

Having a mold infection is an unsightly view, and my people think that painting over it can do the fix. What could go wrong? Mold is dangerous to our health and our homes, and while painting over the moldy spots might seem like a quick fix, it doesn’t do anything to solve the root of the issue.

Many DIY mold removal tricks don’t work, because they do not completely remediate the mold. This is dangerous because many homeowners think they are safe because they don’t see any visible mold. However, the mold is most likely lingering behind the walls and floors.

What kind of mold is in homes?
Mold is a fungus that loves to grow in dark, moist areas. This is why they are a common problem in homes. The most frequently infected parts of the home are basements and bathrooms, due to their higher moisture level.

While mold is a type of fungus, there are several types of mold that all pose risks to our health. They can cause respiratory infections and can be detrimental to those suffering from asthma and allergies. The paint will only alleviate the eyesore that mold is–it won’t do anything to kill the main source.

How do I know if I have mold?
Many times homeowners who have recently moved into a place want to know if there is mold in the home, especially if it’s an older home. The telltale signs of mold growth can range from minor details such as bubbling, cracking, or raised paint on a wall, all the way to visible mold infection.

Why you shouldn’t paint over mold
While painting over mold is tempting, it is not a permanent solution. Mold is dangerous to your health and your home. If you are planning on painting a room and you notice mold, you must remediate it before, otherwise, you could end up wasting thousands of dollars redoing all of the work. So if you’re planning on painting a wall or a room and notice there is mold, here are the steps you should follow to solve your mold issue:

1. Identify the affected area and try your best to find the source
2. Stay away from any infected spots to prevent any health complications
3. Contact a professional mold removal company as soon as possible

Painting over an infected wall will only cause the mold to grow more. Even paints that claim to be resistant to mold won’t always do the trick. Your best bet when it comes to mold removal is by hiring a remediation company. Once removed, you can then paint your heart away!