Hi Andrew,
I have a mould problem in my bathroom. Any suggestions before I paint?
I assure you that you are not alone as mould is a common problem in bathrooms, especially in those without a window, a ceiling fan or proper ventilation.
So here’s what you need to know before you remove the mould and begin to paint:
First, you must avoid inhaling mould particles into your lungs. Safety should be your first consideration. To remove the mould safely from your walls, wear a 3M face mask using a P100 cartridge. The 3M P100 cartridge will attach easily on any 3M 6000 or 7000 face pieces. When used properly, these filters will protect you from harmful mould particles as well as any harmful vapours.
Next, wash your walls with TSP (trisodium phosphate) while wearing rubber gloves. TSP is a powder that is diluted in warm water. Bleach is also effective, but it stinks.
With your walls now mould-free, it’s time to paint. If your walls are painted with oil, give them a good sanding and then apply three or four coats of oil primer. Let the walls dry overnight, then paint in an eggshell latex. Unlike oil-based paint, latex ‘breathes’ and will inhibit any further mould growth in your bathroom.
Tip: If you are unsure whether your walls have been painted in oil or latex-base paints, find out by following this simple trick. Dab a small amount of nail polish remover onto a cotton swab. Rub it on your walls; if the paint comes off, it’s latex; if it doesn’t, it’s oil.
Good luck!
IMAGES COURTESY OF SHERWIN-WILLIAMS
