Tips for Dealing with Water Stains and Mildew

by Susan White

It’s bound to happen a leaky roof, a burst pipe, melting snow, excessive bathroom moisture all leading to one of the most common household problems water stains on walls or ceilings.

You might be tempted to cover a water stain by applying a fresh coat of paint. But, chances are, it won’t work. Most water stains will bleed right through ordinary paints. They also can create an ideal environment for the growth of mold and mildew.

Here’s some advice from the experts at Zinsser to help you deal with water stains and mildew on painted surfaces:

First, make sure the surface is sound. Identify and fix the source of the moisture or leak or you’ll soon have another unsightly water stain.

Clean the surface thoroughly to remove dirt and the unsightly deposits that can result from the leak. Use a bleach and water solution to remove mildew. Rinse the surface thoroughly.

It’s bound to happen a leaky roof, a burst pipe, melting snow, excessive bathroom moisture all leading to one of the most common household problems water stains on walls or ceilings.

You might be tempted to cover a water stain by applying a fresh coat of paint. But, chances are, it won’t work. Most water stains will bleed right through ordinary paints. They also can create an ideal environment for the growth of mold and mildew.

Here’s some advice from the experts at Zinsser to help you deal with water stains and mildew on painted surfaces:

First, make sure the surface is sound. Identify and fix the source of the moisture or leak or you’ll soon have another unsightly water stain.

Clean the surface thoroughly to remove dirt and the unsightly deposits that can result from the leak. Use a bleach and water solution to remove mildew. Rinse the surface thoroughly.