If your bathroom has recurring outbreaks of mould or if there are stains on the ceiling, here's a way to kill off mould spores and have a clean, white ceiling.
Not only are mould stains unsightly, the spores can be hazardous to your health so it is best to get rid of it as quickly as possible.
The best way to prevent mould is to ensure proper ventilation, but as soon as you spot any signs of it, it's time to take action. Mould establishes a colony of living organisms that quickly spread and take over, and the sooner you act, the less work you have to do to stop the mould.
Depending on the size of the infected area, use a soft scrubbing brush or an old toothbrush to clean the surface with a mixture of 2 parts water to 1 part bleach. Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands.
An alternative to bleach is to add 20 drops of tea tree oil to a cup of warm water. Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic that kills off fungus and mould. Leave either solution on the surface for 30 minutes and then wipe with a slightly damp cloth.
Tip: If the painted finish on a plastered or painted ceiling has started to flake, use a paint scraper to remove any remaining flakes.
You can also use a paint scraper to apply a thin layer of Polycell Mendall 90 to cover bare spots and blend with the surrounding surface. If you have a popcorn finish to your walls, disguise the repair by dabbing the surface with a sea sponge to blend.
If you have a popcorn finish to your walls, disguise the repair by dabbing the surface with a sea sponge to blend.
A smooth finish can be achieved by lightly sanding the patch once dry with 180-grit sandpaper or a fine sanding sponge.
On a ceiling previously coated with oil-based or enamel paint, lightly sand the entire ceiling before applying Plascon Universal Undercoat. Let it dry overnight and then apply Plascon Kitchens & Bathrooms paint. Two coats are more than enough to hide imperfections or stains and be sure to allow drying time between each coat.
Tip: Plascon Kitchens & Bathrooms paint is specially formulated to prevent fungal growth but no undercoat is required if the existing finish is acrylic paint.
Painting Tips
- Ensure there is adequate ventilation when painting in a small, confined space such as a bathroom. Open as many windows and doors as possible.
- On a smooth ceiling, apply paint with a foam roller for a brush-stroke-free finish and use masking tape to mask off any areas not being painted.
- Wash brushes in warm, soapy water immediately after use and hang up to dry.
Article courtesy of www.home-dzine.co.za
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