Are some paints more "mildew proof" or "mold proof" than others? If so, which ones offer more?

Question

If you wanted the maximum in mildew proofing or mold proofing, what would you get in terms of paint? Do paints vary in their level of proofing for these things? Or are they all pretty much the same?

Answer 1

here's the story morning glory...

make sure the area you will paint is free of mold and mildew to begin with...use a bleach solution and let dry WELL. secondly. make sure if there is a source for excess moisure, it is resolved. for example. make sure the room is venting properly.

thirdly , apply a stain blocking primer, kilz works well, and although the oil base version will nearly knock you out, it really will give the best seal. topcoat with a good quality paint with at least an eggshell sheen. add a product called "mildex" or a product like it to the paint.

thats the best you can do :)

Answer 2

If you already have some mold issues what you are going to need to do is bleach the area down, then apply a mildew preventing primer to keep the mildew from spreading.  I would recommend KILZ, you can find it at wa-mart.  Then paint over that, for added protection you can also paint with a mildew preventing paint (KILZ has a good line).  Another good thing about the KILZ paint is that it gaurantees only one coat.  It's a little pricey, but half the work, so totally worth the price tag.

Answer 3

I'm gonna avoid the paint question and go straight to mildew and mold proofing...

Check out the remarkable research on toxic mold removal done by environmental expert Dr Ed Close. Simply diffusing a therapeutic-grade essential oil regularly will likely result in an environment very hostel to mold.

http://www.secretofthieves.com/mold.cfm

Answer 4

Give kilz a shot it works great.  Dutch boy also makes a latex paint that works pretty well.  its formulated for bathrooms and kitchens so it is mildew and mold resistant.

Answer 5

There are anti-mold paints on the market http://www.iwantthatpaint.com/

Traditional fomulas like lime wash also have anti fungal properties and allow walls to breathe rather than sweat which can cause mould growth. Bear in mind you are treating the symptom, it would be ultimately more satisfacoty to treat the underlying cause. Increasing ventilation can help - you need to be careful about over draught proffing you house to the extent that you don't have adequate ventilation.