Do not paint or caulk moldy surfaces. Painting or caulking over mold will not prevent mold from growing. Paint applied over moldy surfaces is likely to peel. Molds can still grow on almost any painted surface, such as wood, ceiling tiles, wallpaper, drywall, sheet rock, and insulation.
Painting over mold only hides the problem and doesn’t serve as a true solution. The moldy spot will continue to grow even after the paint dries. Left untreated, the mold can continue to saturate the wall or ceiling and eventually cause the need for complete ceiling or wall removal and replacement.
Caution For Landlords
Unfortunately, there are a lot of incompetent and unscrupulous people in the real estate industry. Some “quick flippers” and low-end real-estate agents will actually paint over anything unsightly (including mold) regardless of the underlying issue.
Signs of Paint Over Mold
If you moved into a new home recently and are worried that the previous owner did exactly what you’re not supposed to do, you may be able to spot where they painted over mold with these telling signs:
- Paint appears bubbled, chipped, or peeled
- Light-colored paint appears a darkened color
- Walls are bubbled or warped
- There is a strong musty or moldy odor