PPG Pittsbugh Paints presents The Paint Doctor:
Dear Paint Doctor: I know that mildew and mold are
words that trigger fear and frustration in homeowners.
Please educate me on this condition so that I can be a
better guide to paint choices and surface preparations
What are the sources and problems due to mildew and mold?
Mildew and mold exist in our environment. Think of molds as
natural compost stations and recyclers. As a general rule of thumb,
the same types of molds grow everywhere in the United States and
Canada. Mildew and mold growth is seasonal, due to the natural
fluctuations of temperature and humidity.
Mildew and molds grow inside and outside of any building
surface, including glass, tile, fabric and wood. Growing mold
causes serious damage to these substrates. In addition, mold growth
is unattractive and can discolor, mar and decompose substrates.
Interior spaces that tend to grow mold are associated with humid,
damp or moist areas that lack adequate ventilation. In interior
areas, the molds and the deterioration of substrates are accompanied
by odors, which can affect indoor air quality. Once an area is
attacked and compromised, the surface is more susceptible to rapid
In exterior areas, dampness increases growth opportunities.
Examples of mold target areas are shady spots and locations close
to the ground, such as decks. More sunlight allows the drying of
substrates, which interrupts and inhibits mildew and mold growth.
How do mildew and mold spread?
In the home and workplace, molds grow on dust, wallpaper,
painted surfaces, drywall, fabric and upholstery, and in insulation.
When contaminated areas are disturbed, the movement of dust
carries the mold into other areas as airborne
particles. When the moisture and
temperature conditions are optimum, the
mold spores will grow in the new areas.
Outdoors, molds are naturally distributed
by breezes and wild creatures. Molds also
are associated with tree and shrub populated
How can mold growth issues be
The best strategy to reduce mold
growth is to prevent it from growing
in the first place. For a homeowner,
the most effective control of mold and
mildew comes from the elimination of high-moisture conditions.
This means that humid areas in homes should be ventilated so that
interior water vapor disappears. In addition, adequate filtering of air
reduces dust, which leads to less opportunity for mold distribution.
The selection of a paint or stain that has a mildewcide discourages
the growth of mold on painted surfaces; however, this does
not prevent mold spores from entering the house from the outside
air or prevent its growth on unpainted surfaces.
PPG makes interior and exterior paints, stains and primers that
contain additives to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. PPG
products containing microbiocidal agents for mold and mildew
provide additional support in dealing with mold contamination
problems in the home and workplace. Ask your technical service
representative for advice on which products are best for your application