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Difficulty: Beginner
Whether your ceiling has persistent mould or just needs a refresh, knowing how to properly paint a mouldy ceiling will help ensure a long-lasting finish.
This simple step-by-step guide covers everything from cleaning and preparing the surface to choosing and applying the right paint for a great result.
Video Tutorial
Steps
Step 1
Resolve any existing leaks.
Before starting any painting project, it’s crucial to address the root cause of the mould. Check your roof for any leaks that might be allowing moisture to seep into the plasterboard ceiling. Even the smallest leak can lead to recurring mould issues.
If you’re unsure or can’t find the source of the leak, it’s best to get professional advice. Once any leaks or moisture issues have been resolved, you can confidently move onto painting.
Step 2
Clean the ceiling.
Before applying paint, you need to thoroughly clean the ceiling to remove mould and mildew. Pre-paint mould treatment Mould Action is highly effective at killing mould and mildew, eliminating harmful bacteria, and preparing the surface for paint.
Be sure to cover any furnishings in the room before starting the cleaning process to avoid potential staining. Also wear protective gloves and eyewear when applying Mould Action to avoid contact with your skin and eyes.
Apply Mould Action from a spray bottle over the entire ceiling, including areas where no visible mould is present. This ensures that any hidden mould spores are also treated.
Allow the treatment to penetrate the ceiling for 24 hours. Then rinse the ceiling by spritzing with fresh water and wiping away any dead mould with a microfibre cloth.
Step 3
Choose the right paint.
When selecting paint for a mould-prone ceiling, consider a higher sheen level than traditional flat ceiling paint. Flat paint can hide imperfections on older ceilings as it doesn’t highlight surface discrepancies. But it is more porous, which makes it easier for mould to embed into the surface.
For ceilings with persistent mould issues, semi-gloss wall paint is a better option. Semi-gloss paint creates a smoother, less porous surface, making it more difficult for mould to take hold. It’s also easier to clean, so any mould that does develop can be wiped away without staining the paint.
You tint your paint to any colour you prefer. We chose Vivid White.
Step 4
Mix the paint with a mould and mildew inhibitor.
To further protect your ceiling, mix a mould and mildew inhibitor like Mould Defender into your semi-gloss paint. This additive is a powerful, long-lasting mould inhibitor that prevents unsightly growth on the paint’s surface. It forms a durable film that doesn’t alter the paint’s appearance.
Wear protective clothing, gloves, eye protection and a face mask. Also ensure you mix the inhibitor into the paint in a well-ventilated area.
Stir the paint thoroughly before and during the addition of Mould Defender. For a 2-litre can of paint, add 10ml of Mould Defender. For a 4-litre can, add 20ml.
Step 5
Apply the paint.
Now the ceiling is prepared you can apply the new mould-resistant paint. Start by cutting in around the edges of the ceiling using a brush. Paint the area around the cornices where the ceiling meets the walls.
Use a roller with a pole extension to paint the rest of the ceiling. Roll in long, even strokes and try to maintain a wet edge to avoid lap marks. It’s also a good idea to paint in sections, working your way across the ceiling systematically.
Use a roller with a medium to long nap for textured ceilings and a shorter nap for smooth ceilings. Paint in a “W” or “M” pattern to ensure even coverage.
Apply at least two coats of paint, allowing proper drying time between coats as per the directions on the can.
When finished you can admire your fresh new ceiling.
