Mould growth is a common problem in UK homes, particularly in high humidity areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Applying paint to problem areas will cover mould growth for a while, but it’ll be back to haunt your home before too long.
Before you even open a tin of paint, you need to tackle the underlying causes of mould, most commonly this is lack of air movement and condensation. Once these are addressed, you can move onto removing mould from the space before repainting. Regular paint alone will leave your home vulnerable to reinfestation. Using a mould resistant paint adds an extra layer of protection to ensure mould does not return.
This article will look at what mould resistant paint is, how it works, and the differences between natural anti mould paints and chemical based alternatives. We’ll also explain where mould resistant paint should be used, and how to get the best long term results.
What Is Mould Resistant Paint?
Mould resistant paint is a specialist paint designed to inhibit growth of mould and mildew. It’s most commonly used in areas where moisture and condensation are an issue such as bathrooms, kitchens, utility rooms, and cellars.
However, not all mould proof paints are created equal. There’s a significant difference between natural based and chemical based products, and how they stop mould growing.
Difference Between Natural & Chemical Based Mould Proof Paint
Chemical based paints typically contain synthetic fungicides and biocides to kill mould spores, whilst natural paints use breathable and naturally mould resistant active ingredients.
Synthetic Chemical Based Paints
Synthetic chemicals in anti mould paint can degrade over time, losing their mould resistant properties.
The paints also contain VOCs which release harmful fumes into your home, and can contain plastic resins that trap moisture. This can make damp issues worse in some homes, particularly older homes.
Natural Based Paints
Natural mould resistant paints use naturally breathable ingredients such as lime, or silicates.
The naturally high ph level of the ingredients creates a high ph environment which is mould resistant. The paint is breathable and free from synthetic fungicides, VOCs, and other toxins.
Breathable paint has natural moisture regulating properties, which will help address the root causes of mould in your home. This is a more sustainable and effective option for all types of home, but particularly older houses which need to breathe.
Does Anti Mould Paint Work?
Anti mould paint is a highly effective solution in helping keep homes mould free. However, for the paint to effectively stop mould and mildew growth surfaces must be treated to eradicate mould, and the area must be dry.
How Natural Anti Mould Paint Works:-
- Natural fungicidal and algicidal properties thanks to naturally high ph levels.
- Stops moisture being trapped by creating a breathable surface which allows vapour to pass through.
- Provides long lasting results as it doesn’t rely on synthetic ingredients which degrade over time.
- Naturally breathable paint also creates better indoor air quality by not releasing harmful chemical fumes into your home.
Where Should Mould Proof Paint be Used?
Any area in your home which is prone to moisture build up and where you’ve seen mould growth in the past will benefit from anti mould paints.
Use natural mould proof paint for:-
Mould in bathrooms and shower rooms.
Kitchens & utility rooms.
Mould on ceilings, in corners, and damp prone walls.
Older homes which need to breathe.
How Long Does Mould Resistant Paint Last?
The effective lifespan of mould resistant paint depends on its formulation and how it’s applied. Chemical based paints work in the short term, but the synthetic biocides break down over time.
Natural lime and silicate based paints will retain their natural fungicidal properties indefinitely. This means that well maintained natural anti mould paints can last for many years without reapplication, and will retain anti mould properties indefinitely.
Does Mould Resistant Paint Prevent Damp?
Mould proofing paint doesn’t prevent damp on its own. It can help stop spores growing, but won’t stop the source of any excess moisture.
In order to ensure you get rid of mould permanently you should fix any water ingress issues, ensure good ventilation and air circulation, and use a dehumidifier if needed.
Mould Resistant Paint FAQs
Is mould resistant paint waterproof?
No, mould resistant paint isn’t waterproof. It’s moisture regulating which means it lets walls breathe by allowing damp to escape.
Can mould resistant paint be used on ceilings?
Ceilings are an ideal surface to apply mould resistant paints. Ceilings and corners and particularly prone to condensation and mould growth.
Recommended Natural Mould Resistant Paints
At Greenshop Paints, we specialise in natural mould resistant solutions from trusted eco paint brands:
Auro 327 - a breathable, lime based paint perfect for walls and ceilings. Naturally high PH value of lime base effectively prevents mould growth.
Auro 303 - is the premium version of Auro 327, featuring a lightly textured finish due to inclusion of milled lime in it’s formulation. Non toxic, solvent free and breathable.
Auro 505 - this primer paint is recommended if you wish to paint over standard plastic paints.
For complete mould prevention, prepare surfaces prior to painting with:-
Auro 412 – natural mould remover, kills spores without harsh chemicals.
Auro 413 – mould growth retardant.
You don’t need to bring harsh, fume laden paints into your home to prevent mould and damp. Eco friendly paints are a good long term investment into the health of your home and family.
Chemical paints can offer a quick fix, but natural mould proof paint delivers better and more sustainable long term protection. For further inspiration, check out our paint colours which are available as breathable paints, lime paints, and natural emulsions.
We have a few articles that offer more knowledge on this subject such as: Is mould dangerous?, How to apply anti fungal paint like a pro?, What causes mould in bedrooms?, best anti mould paints
