Anti-Mould: How to Prevent Mould in Your Home

Mould can be a real nuisance in our homes, often popping up when we least expect it. It’s not just an eyesore; it can pose serious health risks, particularly for those who suffer from allergies or respiratory conditions. 

Alarmingly, the Regulator of Social Housing has reported that between 120,000 and 160,000 of the four million social homes in England are grappling with “notable” amounts of damp and mould. Instead of playing catch-up with mould removal, let’s focus on effective prevention. Here’s everything you need to know about keeping your home mould-free - from simple tips to room-specific strategies.

Understanding Mould: What’s the Deal?

Mould loves damp environments, thriving where moisture is left unchecked. It can creep in through leaks, high humidity, or even condensation on cold surfaces. Understanding the conditions that foster mould growth is key to keeping it at bay. The good news? With a few straightforward adjustments, you can significantly reduce your risk of mould in your home.

How To Avoid Mould

  • Clean: Start by tackling the mould with Zinsser Mould Killer. Give the surface a good spray and let it dry completely – this will help stop mould in its tracks.
  • Prep: If you've got any flaking or peeling paint, now’s the time to scrape or sand it down to create a smooth, stable surface. For any areas where the paint is particularly loose, Zinsser Peel Stop is your go-to for sealing and strengthening the surface.
  • Prime: To keep those pesky mould stains from reappearing, a high-quality primer is essential. We recommend Zinsser BIN Aqua Primer – it seals the surface beautifully and keeps stains at bay.
  • Paint: Finally, finish with a durable, moisture-resistant top coat. This is key in rooms with high humidity, like bathrooms and kitchens. Zinsser Perma-White is a great option and can be tinted to 1000s of colours, so you don’t have to compromise on style while keeping your home mould-free!

How to Combat Mould

  1. Keep an Eye on Humidity: Aim for indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. If your home feels sticky or humid, it’s time to invest in a dehumidifier. This will help maintain a comfortable atmosphere and deter mould growth.
  2. Fix Leaks ASAP: A leaky pipe or a damp spot on the ceiling is an open invitation for mould. Repair any leaks right away to prevent moisture accumulation.
  3. Boost Ventilation: Proper airflow is essential in areas prone to moisture. After cooking or showering, crack a window or turn on an extractor fan to let the steam escape. If you dry clothes indoors, ensure the room is well-ventilated to keep humidity in check.

Preventing Mould in Colder Months

Winter can be tricky for mould prevention. The colder it gets, the more likely you are to see condensation on windows and walls. Keep your home’s temperature consistent; this can help minimise the chance of moisture build-up. Consider using insulated curtains and check your insulation to prevent drafts. Regularly wipe down any condensation that appears on cold surfaces to keep mould at bay.

Stopping Mould from Coming Back

If you’ve tackled mould in the past, you’ll want to ensure it doesn’t return. Start by cleaning affected areas with an anti-mould solution before repainting with mould-resistant products like Zinsser Perma-White. Regularly inspect spots where mould has previously appeared, and stay vigilant with moisture control throughout the year.

Preventing mould is all about being proactive. By managing moisture levels, improving ventilation, and using the right products, you can keep your home safe from mould’s unwelcome presence. Remember, consistency is key! Explore our Anti Mould Paint Collection for effective solutions that will help you maintain a mould-free environment for years to come. If you are having issues with mould on your wallpaper, have a read of my blog on how you can remove mould from wallpaper to get it back to looking it's best again. I also have a blog here, that will explain why your bathroom ceiling is flaking!

If you’re still unsure and require any further advice then please just drop us an email or call as we always love to help. Our Contact Us page will have this information available. You can reach us on WhatsApp or social media DM’s on Pinterest, Instagram or Facebook

Helen x

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