Mould

Possible cause

• Mould forms most often on areas that tend to be damp, or receive little or no direct sunlight (e.g. bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms)
• Use of flat or matt paints in areas subject to moisture
• Use of low quality latex paint
• Failure to prime a bare wood surface before applying the paint
• Painting over a substrate or coating on which mildew has not been fully removed
  

Solution

Test for mildew by applying a few drops of household bleach to the area; if it is bleached away, the discolouration is probably mildew. Remove all mildew from the surface by scrubbing with a diluted household bleach solution (one part bleach, three parts water), while wearing rubber gloves and eye protection. Rinse thoroughly.

To protect against mildew, use a premium quality water-based paint, and clean when necessary with bleach/detergent solution. Consider installing an exhaust fan in high moisture areas.

If the area is subject to frequent moisture, e.g. bathrooms, consider using Wash&Wear® +Plus Kitchen & Bathroom.