How To Get Rid of Mould on Walls Permanently?

Discovering a patch of mould on your walls can feel like a homeowner's nightmare. Mould is not just unsightly and damaging to your property, but it can also pose significant health risks. But don't despair. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss practical methods on how to get rid of mould on walls permanently.

Perfect Clean provides expert mould remediation services, ensuring your home remains safe, clean, and healthy. With this guide, you can understand and combat mould with confidence.

What is Mould?

Mould is a type of fungus that thrives in damp and humid conditions. It reproduces by releasing tiny, lightweight spores that travel through the air. Mould can come in various colours, such as black, white, orange, green, or purple. It often appears as a stain or smudgy patch on walls, floors, fabrics, or other surfaces. It emits a musty odour and can cause severe health problems if not promptly addressed.

Mould growth in your home is not just an aesthetic issue. It can damage the structure of your house, cause unpleasant odours, and most importantly, pose significant health risks.

Why is Mould Dangerous?

Mould poses numerous health risks, particularly to those who are allergic or have a compromised immune system. Inhaling or touching mould spores can cause allergic reactions, including sneezing, red eyes, skin rash, and a runny nose. Mould exposure can also cause asthma attacks.

Moreover, some types of mould produce mycotoxins that can lead to severe health problems, such as respiratory infections and neurological issues. Long-term exposure to mould can also result in chronic health conditions, including lung and heart problems.

In addition to these health risks, mould can cause significant structural damage to your home. Mould feeds on organic materials like wood and drywall, gradually breaking down the material and leading to substantial repair costs if not addressed in time.

How to Identify Mould on Walls?

Mould can sometimes be difficult to identify, particularly if it's growing inside your walls. However, there are several key signs that can indicate the presence of mould:

• Discolouration: Mould often appears as black, green, or white patches on walls. It can also cause stains and discolouration.
• Texture: Mouldy surfaces often feel damp and may be distorted or warped.
• Odour: Mould gives off a musty or earthy smell.
• Allergic Symptoms: If you or your family members are experiencing allergic symptoms like a runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rash without apparent cause, it could be due to mould exposure.

Remember, if you're unsure whether you have a mould problem, a professional assessment can be beneficial.

Causes of Mould on Walls

Understanding the causes of mould can be the first step in preventing its growth. Here are some common reasons why mould appears on walls:

• Poor Ventilation: Lack of sufficient airflow in your home can lead to high humidity and condensation, which encourages mould growth.
• Leaks: Whether from the roof, pipes, or windows, leaks can cause dampness that promotes mould growth.
• Condensation: Cold surfaces can create condensation in your home. When warm air hits cold windows or walls, it cools down, creating water droplets that foster mould growth.
• Humidity: High indoor humidity can provide an ideal environment for mould growth. It is common in rooms such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.

How to Get Rid of Mould on Walls Permanently?

Now that we understand what mould is, why it's dangerous, and how to identify it, let's discuss 'How to Get Rid of Mould on Walls Permanently?'. It's important to note that while DIY methods can be effective for minor mould issues, extensive mould growth requires professional intervention.

Before starting the cleaning process, ensure that you're wearing protective clothing, including a mask, gloves, and glasses, to prevent mould spores from getting into your body. Furthermore, it's advisable to seal off the affected area to prevent mould spores from spreading during cleaning.

Using Baking Soda to Remove Mould on Walls

Baking soda is a safe and effective mould remover. It is gentle and safe to use on your walls and other surfaces and is also helpful in absorbing moisture.

• Mix one part baking soda with five parts of water.
• Apply the mixture to the mouldy surface with a sponge or spray bottle.
• Let the solution sit for a few minutes before scrubbing the mould off with a bristle brush.
• Rinse the surface with warm water and wipe it dry.
• Repeat this process if necessary.

Using Vinegar to Remove Mould on Walls

Vinegar is a mild acid that can kill around 82% of mould species. It is a natural solution for mould removal that is safe to use on most surfaces.

• Pour distilled white vinegar into a spray bottle. Do not dilute it.
• Spray the vinegar onto the mouldy surface and leave it for an hour.
• After an hour, clean the area with warm water and dry the surface thoroughly.
• If the vinegar smells too strong, add essential oil to the vinegar.

Using Bleach to Remove Mould on Walls

Bleach is effective in killing mould on non-porous surfaces. However, it doesn't penetrate porous materials, meaning it cannot kill mould spores beneath the surface.

• Mix one part bleach with three parts water.
• Apply the mixture to the mould with a sponge or spray bottle.
• Let it sit for at least 10 minutes, then scrub the mould off with a brush.
• Rinse the area and dry it thoroughly.

Using Tea Tree Oil to Remove Mould on Walls

Although more expensive than other options, tea tree oil is a powerful fungicide that can kill and prevent mould.

• Mix one teaspoon of tea tree oil with one cup of water.
• Spray the solution on the mouldy area.
• Do not rinse. The strong odour will disappear after a few days, and the tea tree oil will prevent future mould growth.

Using Hydrogen Peroxide to Remove Mould on Walls

Hydrogen peroxide is an antifungal and antibacterial solution that can kill mould on various surfaces.

• Pour 3% concentration of hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle.
• Apply it to the mouldy area and let it sit for 10 minutes.
• Scrub the area to remove the mould and mould stains.
• Wipe the surface to remove residual mould and spores.

Using Ammonia to Remove Mould on Walls

Like bleach, ammonia will only effectively kill surface mould on non-porous materials such as glass or tiles. Never mix ammonia with bleach since it can produce a hazardous gas.

• Mix equal parts of ammonia and water.
• Spray the solution on mouldy surfaces.
• Leave it for a few hours, then rinse and dry.

Remember, each of these methods is best for small mould problems. If your mould problem is large or the mould comes back after cleaning, consider seeking professional help.

Preventing Mould Growth on Walls

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to mould. Here are some tips to keep your home mould-free:

• Improve Ventilation: Ensure your home is well-ventilated, especially in areas like the kitchen and bathroom with high moisture levels.
• Use a Dehumidifier: This can help reduce the amount of moisture in the air.
• Fix Leaks: Regularly check for and repair leaks in your home’s roofs, walls, or pipes.
• Use Mould-Resistant Products: Consider using mould-resistant paint, drywall, or other products, especially in high-humidity rooms.
• Clean Regularly: Regular cleaning can help prevent mould growth, especially in areas prone to dampness.

Keep Your Home Mould-Free with Perfect Clean

Perfect Clean is your reliable cleaning company in Ireland, ready to tackle any mould problems you may have. We have a team of professionals trained to detect, eradicate, and prevent mould in your home.

With our services, you won't have to worry about 'How to Get Rid of Mould on Walls Permanently?' because our team will efficiently handle it, leaving your home safe, clean, and mould-free. Don't let mould affect your health or property; hire Perfect Clean today.