As temperatures begin to plummet across the UK, the frosty weather can bring mould with it - which is a massive concern for homeowners and renters.
Not only is black mould an eyesore, but it's also hazardous to health and can cause further issues with your property, so there's no wonder whatsoever that many are looking high and low for quick ways to deal with it.
Just last month, Google searches for getting rid of mould have increased by some 180 per cent - with the cold weather outside combining with central heating systems to spread condensation across windows and walls.
Read more: The reason mould grows in your home and how to get rid of it, according to damp expert
The Mirror reports that Interior Expert and Managing Director of The Paint Shed, Michael Rolland, has explained the best practice for painting over mould, telling why giving it a lick of Dulux and forgetting about it is far from the best way to go on.
He said: "Painting over mould will temporarily hide its unsightliness, but it won't resolve the issue, so will still be hazardous to health. It will continue to grow unless properly treated, and will eventually reappear, bringing the same problems as before - so there are better things to do before you paint.
"You need to work out what's causing the mould, rather than just hiding it with paint. Mould is a living organism and can cause a wealth of issues if left alone, so it may mean you need to improve ventilation inside the home to reduce the amount of condensation you're creating.
"Only once the surface you are looking to paint has been made free of mould and damp should you apply a new coat of paint - as it can return if you don't treat it properly."
Michael also revealed the importance of treating surfaces, explaining that a single 'wipe or spray of anti-bacterial' won't cut it whatsoever. He added: "You should always use a fungicidal sterilisation wash before painting over mouldy surfaces.
"You can make your own DIY surface mould remover by mixing two parts bleach and ten parts water. Simply spray it onto the wall and wipe it away with some kitchen roll.
"Make sure to wear a mask and rubber gloves for this. White vinegar can also be used to clean affected areas but make sure to read the label on the products before use. After treating and cleaning the surface, you need to ensure it is clean and dry.
"You also need to remove any loose material with scrapers or stiff-bristled brushes. This will help prevent any interference with the adhesion of paint and create the smoothest finish.
"You can use fine, abrasive paper to get into corners and seams."
Primers also help with regards to damp and mouldy services. Michael said: "You can also use a seal such as Polycell Damp Seal which has been formulated to seal patches of penetrating dampness on interior walls and ceilings in just one coat, preventing them from showing through and spoiling decorations.
"Once the surface has been cleaned, primed and sealed, you can start applying the paint. If you're looking to paint an area prone to mould such as a kitchen or bathroom, then mould-resistant paint should be used such as Crown Trade Clean Extreme Mould Inhibiting Scrubbable Matt, which contains more mould-inhibiting ingredients than most emulsions.
"It's also designed to be used in areas that have a lot of moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms. It can also be washed, wiped and scrubbed regularly without damage to the finish or colour."
Michael also suggested that another inexpensive alternative to anti-mould paint would be an anti-mould additive that you can mix in with everyday paint, in a bid to give it mould-resistant properties - like the Owatrol VC175 Mould Stop.
He explained: "An additive is an inexpensive way to kill and treat mould and algae. Simply add a few drops to your paint, mix well and apply as normal for long-lasting protection. A few drops of a mould killer added to your paint will mean walls will stay like new without mould peeking through, and it's a great alternative if you're struggling to find anti-mould paint in the colour you want."
Read next:
- Mrs Hinch fan shares unusual method to banish mould for good using mouthwash
Cleaning expert 'swears by' washing up liquid method to stop condensation
Boiler expert shares 'crucial' ways of preventing condensation to keep damp and mould at bay
Mrs Hinch fans share easy way to remove limescale from toilets using dishwasher tablet
Man forced to 'walk the streets' after being too scared to live in mouldy Newcastle flat
