Mould is one of the most common problems homeowners struggle with in their household, especially in a humid country like Singapore. A combination of poor ventilation, moisture buildup, and lack of cleanliness in the home can lead to mould growth on your home walls, causing various issues from odours to allergies. Here is the ultimate guide to getting rid of mould on walls.
Causes of Mould on Walls
Mould is almost always present in the environment. They may survive for years undetected. However, under certain favourable conditions, they may thrive in various parts of the home, such as walls.
1. High humidity
Mould thrives in high humidity levels. Poor airflow in bathrooms and kitchens can lead to moisture buildup, creating ideal conditions for them to grow. Minor leaks in plumbing that go unnoticed or unattended can also make your home more humid, increasing the chances of mould growth.
2. Organic materials
Mould needs food for survival and reproduction. They feed on organic materials in wooden panels or wallboards, as well as tiny amounts of dust and dirt. It can also grow on synthetic materials such as paints and textiles.
3. Darkness
Mould does not survive well in natural sunlight, as the UV rays from the sun destroy its cellular structure. This is why mould prefers thriving in dark places, such as behind wallpaper, panelling, and inside walls.
4. Cold spots on walls
Mould often grows in corners along external walls or behind furniture. When these areas have poor or no insulation, they tend to be colder than the rest of the room. During warm conditions, moist air may pass through a cold patch and condensation forms. This is usually the reason for mould to recur in those same problem spots.
How to Remove Mould on Walls
Mould growth in homes is not always noticeable. When you do notice them, there are some methods you can try to control their growth. Here are some tips on getting rid of mould on walls.
1. Lower the humidity level in your home
While controlling the humidity level in your home may be challenging when living in a humid country like Singapore, there are several measures you can try. If you have a humidifier, unplug it temporarily until you have resolved the mould issue. Excessive use of the dryer also tends to increase humidity in the house, so use it sparingly. You can also open the windows in your home whenever possible to improve the air circulation.
2. Repair any cracks and crevices
Water leaks can increase the risk of mould growth. If you find that your walls have any cracks or crevices, patch them immediately to prevent spores from entering. For deeper damages, it is best to consult with a professional.
3. Use mould-removing chemicals
Bleach is one of the most commonly used chemicals to deal with small, surface-level mould growth at home. However, overusing it may damage your wall paint or wallpaper. You can also get cleaning products specifically designed for mould removal. Keep in mind that extensive or hidden mould requires professional intervention.
Prevention Tips
By the time mould is already thriving in your home, getting rid of them can prove costly. Prevention and early detection are key to keeping them under control.
1. Get a professional inspection
Since mould is often undetectable to the naked eye, it is best to let professionals help you detect their presence before the issue worsens. Getting your home checked by a professional mould inspection in Singapore can identify the source of the problem and target both mould and its spores. They are also trained to apply preventive measures to ensure that mould infestation will not recur.
2. Fix water leaks promptly
Get your home checked regularly for any signs of water leaks. This includes any leaking pipes, roofs, and drainage. If there are any, address them immediately before mould starts to grow. Repair leaking pipes, roofs, or windows, and ensure proper drainage around your home. Clean and dry the affected areas and use fans to speed up the drying process.
3. Dry clothes outside
Drying clothes indoors causes high humidity, which leads to mould growth. If drying your laundry outside is not possible, dry them in a room where you can open a window for better ventilation. Also, if you are using a washing machine or tumble dryer, make sure that it is vented properly.
4. Maintain moisture-prone areas routinely
Pay extra attention to areas that are more susceptible to mould growth, such as bathrooms, basements, and kitchens. Inspect them regularly for any signs of mould before it spreads. Make sure that these rooms have proper insulation in their walls, as this can prevent moisture from building up.
5. Avoid overstuffed storage
Bedroom wardrobes and kitchen cupboards that are filled with too many things are a breeding ground for mould due to poor air circulation. Likewise, place furniture some distance away from surrounding walls to allow ample airflow.
Protect Your Home from Mould before They Spread
Mould on walls can cause health issues and significant damage to your home if left unaddressed. By identifying mould growth early, you can tackle the sources of mould in your home and prevent further growth.
Ridpest provides professional mould removal in Singapore with comprehensive solutions that include mould removal and addressing underlying moisture issues. We also offer eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives to give homeowners more peace of mind. Get in touch with us today to get rid of any mould issues in your home!
