What is Mould and why it appears
Mould forms in damp, humid spaces and often appears as dark patches on walls, ceilings or windows. It's usually caused by condensation, leaks or poor ventilation - not neglect. Look out for early signs like musty smells, peeling paint or black spots and act quickly to restore a healthy home environment.
Mould Characteristics
Mould is a fungus that grows in damp, humid environments appearing as dark or discoloured patches indoors.
Causes of Mould
Common causes include condensation, plumbing leaks, roofing leaks, and poor ventilation leading to moisture buildup.
Signs and Prevention
Early signs include musty odours, peeling paint, and black spots; recognising these helps prevent mould spread.
Health & Environment
Mould signals environmental imbalance and requires correction to maintain a healthy living space.
What to buy and what to do (step by step)
Follow these three steps to clean the mould, seal the surface, and finish with a protective topcoat. Work in a well-ventilated room and wear gloves.
Step 1 - Seal the surface
Spray onto affected areas and leave for the recommended time, then wipe away. Repeat if required and allow the wall to dry fully.
Step 2 - Priming
Once dry, apply a stain-blocking primer to seal the surface and prevent marks bleeding through your topcoat.
Step 3 - Decoration
Finish with an anti-mould paint (usually 2 coats). Keep the room ventilated and tackle the cause (condensation/leaks) to stop it returning.
Safety note: never mix cleaning chemicals. If the area is extensive or keeps returning, consider professional advice and address the moisture source (ventilation, leaks, insulation).
Health and Property risks
Mould spores can affect health and home conditions. Here are the two most common impacts to look out for.
Health Risks of Mould
Mould spores can cause allergic reactions, asthma, and respiratory problems, especially in vulnerable individuals.
Property Damage Risks
Mould weakens plaster, paint, and wooden structures, leading to costly repairs and reduced property value.
Effective treatment and prevention
Treating mould effectively involves more than wiping away visible patches. The first step is identifying and addressing the root cause, which often relates to excess moisture or poor ventilation...
Address Root Causes
Identify moisture sources like leaks and poor ventilation to prevent mould growth effectively.
Professional Cleaning
Use mould-specific cleaning agents for safe removal of existing mould and reduce health risks.
Preventive Measures
Maintain indoor temperature, use extractor fans, and ensure good airflow to reduce condensation.
Occupant Education
Educate residents on habits like opening windows and avoiding indoor clothes drying without ventilation.
How we can support you
Experiencing mould in your home can feel overwhelming. But it is important to remember that you are not alone and it is not your fault. Moisture-related issues can affect any property and support is available via our teams in store or here on our website.