Can I Paint Over Mold On Drywall
In mild cases the mold will cause discoloration and an unpleasant smell.
Can i paint over mold on drywall. It is recommended however not to paint over existing mold as this will just cover the mold and allow it to continue to grow behind the paint. In extreme cases such as with black mold it can negatively affect the health of those nearby. Painting over it will not remove the mold and if the area isn t properly ventilated on the outside and it probably isn t the mold will continue to grow. Many people choose this solution because it is the quickest solution to hide the ugly signs of mold on their walls.
Painting over mold will only work on a permanent basis if you fix the source of the mold problem first. How to remove mold on drywall unpainted. Try as you might to hide it with a moisture resistant paint primer it always has a way of showing its face again especially if the source and reason are not discovered and taken care of. If you paint over fresh drywall with regular wall paint you ll have a hard time getting an even finish.
You may get acceptable results by using self priming wall paint. Just painting over it will hide the problem for a year or two. Even after drying it out if mold has taken root it will persist. They will in no way prevent mold growth in your drywall framing or on other surfaces in your ceilings and walls.
In addition you need to purchase a mold killing paint rather than the resistant variety as this is the only way to deal with already existing mold. Mold resistant paint prevents the future growth of mold only on the paint surface itself. Removing black mold from unpainted drywall is much tougher due to the fact that the mold can penetrate much deeper due to their being no protective barrier but all is not lost and it definitely possible if you follow the steps discussed below. But that is the problem you are only hiding the mold temporarily.
As other posters are noting the mold is very likely on the outside of the drywall as well. Painting over mold is one of the most common methods to hide mold. Painting over any mold or mildew can be done only after taking the necessary precautions and recommended steps. Ignoring the issue around your home will continue to cause you mold and mildew health problems.
With a little bit of water drywall can become an ideal environment for mold. Use an antimicrobial cleanser we like foster 40 80 and a brush to clean the surface thoroughly. Zinsser mold killing primer is a water based epa registered fungicidal protective coating that can be used to paint over and kill all existing mold mildew moss fungi odor causing bacteria and any other fungal organisms. Often when people choose to paint over mold it is because of ignorance.