Why You Should Never Paint Over Mold – And What to Do Instead

If you’ve spotted mold on your walls or ceilings, it may be tempting to simply paint over it and move on. But this quick fix can lead to bigger problems down the line. Painting over mold does not kill it—and ignoring it can risk both your home’s integrity and your health.

In this article, we’ll explain why painting over mold is a mistake, what it takes to properly treat mold, and how to safely prep a surface before applying paint.

Does Painting Over Mold Kill It?

No, painting over mold does not kill it. Mold is a living organism, and paint alone cannot stop it from growing. In fact, when you paint over mold without proper treatment:

• The mold continues to grow underneath the surface.
• The paint may bubble, peel, or discolor.
• Mold spores may still be released into the air, causing respiratory issues and allergic reactions.

Some paints may claim to be “mold-resistant,” but these products are meant for prevention, not remediation. Applying them over active mold is ineffective and may even seal in moisture, making the problem worse.

Why Mold Should Be Treated, Not Covered

Mold grows in moist, poorly ventilated areas and spreads quickly when left untreated. Common causes include plumbing leaks, roof leaks, poor insulation, or excess humidity.

Painting over it hides the problem, but it doesn’t address the root cause. Untreated mold can:

• Damage drywall, wood, and other materials
• Lower your property value
• Trigger health problems like coughing, skin irritation, asthma, and eye infections

Proper Steps to Remove Mold Before Painting

To protect your home and ensure a long-lasting paint job, follow these steps:

1. Identify and eliminate the moisture source

Check for plumbing leaks, roof damage, or high indoor humidity. Fix the source of the problem first to prevent the mold from returning.

2. Clean the affected area

Use a mold-killing solution such as:

• White vinegar
• A mix of bleach and water (1 cup bleach to 1 gallon of water)
• Commercial mold removers

Apply the solution, scrub the surface thoroughly, and let it sit before wiping clean.

3. Dry the area completely

Mold thrives in damp environments. Make sure the area is thoroughly dry before moving to the next step.

4. Apply a mold-resistant primer

Use a primer specifically designed to resist mold and mildew growth. Products like Zinsser Mold Killing Primer are excellent choices for this step.

5. Paint with mold-resistant paint

After priming, use a high-quality paint formulated to prevent mold growth in the future. This is especially important in bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and other moisture-prone areas.

When to Call a Professional

If mold covers a large area (over 10 square feet), or you suspect it may be black mold, it’s best to call a licensed contractor or mold remediation specialist. Professionals have the tools, safety gear, and experience to fully remove mold and restore your space.

Final Thoughts

Painting over mold may seem like a quick fix, but it doesn’t solve the problem — and in many cases, it makes things worse. Proper mold removal and prevention ensures a healthier home and a finish that lasts.

If you’re planning to repaint or remodel and want to make sure mold won’t come back, working with a professional team can make all the difference.

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Mold Prevention & Painting Services in Seattle

At F&M Construction and Remodeling, we help homeowners address the source of mold, treat it correctly, and deliver mold-resistant painting and remodeling solutions that last. Whether it’s a small patch or part of a larger renovation, we’ve got you covered.

Call us today at 425-469-0452 or visit www.fmremodeling.com to schedule a consultation.