Act Fast to Get Rid of Black Mould on Plasterboard Ceilings

Black mould is a shockingly common problem in homes, and it can be difficult to deal with. Just when you think you've defeated it once and for all, back it comes, spreading across surfaces in no time. Mould spores can damage your health, causing respiratory problems and other symptoms.

Health issues aside, it can be a particularly severe problem on plasterboard ceilings, not least because it makes the mould more difficult to reach than it is when it's on walls. Plasterboard can quickly be stained and damaged by mould, and its presence also indicates a damp problem, which will cause further damage in itself.

Protect your plasterboard and prevent damage by getting ridding of mould quickly and effectively using the following tips.

Deal with the underlying causes first

Mould grows in damp conditions, so if you have it, you have a damp problem to some degree. Thoroughly check your home for leaks and problem areas like heavy condensation on windows. Increasing ventilation is often enough to dry out a room and get rid of mould spores, but it's not always completely reliable, so monitor the situation carefully.

If you have a recurring mould problem, it's a good idea to invest in a dehumidifier. This will keep the air dry and prevent regrowth, although be aware that you could still have spores present.

Clean and kill the mould

On some surface types, a wipe-down with a mould-killing product is enough to deal with the problem, but plasterboard is porous and needs a bit more care and attention.

First of all, protect yourself with a respiratory mask to avoiding inhaling mould spores. Mix some dishwashing detergent with hot water and wipe it over the mould with a sponge. Follow this up with a stiff brush to remove as much mould as possible. Once you've done this, dry the ceiling as much as possible, or the damp can cause mould to regrow.

Lastly, use a half-and-half solution of hot water and bleach to wipe over the ceiling surface, letting it soak into the plasterboard. Don't soak it too much, but also don't let it dry too quickly, and make sure you wipe off any excess.

Stop it coming back

In addition to keeping up with your efforts to keep your home dry and well ventilated, you should consider painting your plasterboard ceiling with an anti-mould paint. This will provide protection for several years, severely limiting the ability of mould to take hold and grow.

Consider replacement

If all else fails, you might need to get the plasterboard replaced. Although this seems drastic, it's important to make sure your home is mould-free. When mould gets into a plasterboard ceiling, it's not always easy to get rid of it unless you act fast, so get the ceiling replaced as soon as you can if necessary.

Contact a company that does ceiling repairs for more information.


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