Can mold penetrate plaster walls?

Author: Dorcas Daugherty  |  Last update: Sunday, September 7, 2025

Yes, mold can grow on plaster. Just like other types of building materials, plaster that has been painted, is dirty, or has been damaged is prime for mold growth. If you find mold growth on your plaster walls, what can you do about it? Read on to learn about mold remediation and prevention for plaster walls.

Can mold come through plaster walls?

Mold does not grow on plaster because plaster is non-porous and lime-based or clay. Although plaster does not support microbial growth, if porous cellulose-based material such as drywall is used on the backside of the plaster for support, mold can grow on the drywall.

Is plaster more mold resistant than drywall?

Drywall provides little to no support to the structure. It is less fire-resistant and mold-resistant than plaster.

How to get rid of mold in plaster?

Mix a solution of one part bleach and four parts water. Take a cloth and wipe this solution across the wall, scrubbing gently until all the mould has been removed. You can then wipe the bleach away and dry the area using a separate cloth.

What is the best mold remover for plaster walls?

Clorox Tilex Mold and Mildew Remover

The Clorox Plus Tilex Mold & Mildew Remover is the best mold remover overall—and it's expert-approved.

Tell the difference between condensation and damp in 1 minute.

How do you stop mold from coming through plaster?

This involves applying a waterproof, liquid-applied tanking material to the wall surfaces so as to create an impermeable barrier that prevents water and moisture from penetrating. This will help to protect the plaster and walls from further damage due to mould, dampness and rot.

What kills 100% of mold?

Hydrogen peroxide, commonly used to disinfect wounds, is active against a wide variety of micro-organisms including mold. It acts by releasing oxygen at a rapid rate, which kills mold by oxidizing the surface and breaking down proteins and DNA.

What is the best mould killer for plaster?

Zinsser Mould Killer and Remover effectively removes stains caused by mould, fungus and algae. It is ideal for use in bathrooms, kitchens and areas of high humidity and can be used on internal surfaces such as tiles, wood, plaster and wallpaper.

What are signs of mold sickness?

Although symptoms can vary, the most common symptoms seen in people exposed to mold indoors include:
  • Nasal and sinus congestion.
  • Eye irritation, such as itchy, red, watery eyes.
  • Wheezing and difficulty breathing.
  • Cough.
  • Throat irritation.
  • Skin irritation, such as a rash.
  • Headache.

How to get rid of black mold permanently?

For a natural solution to getting rid of black mold, combine one part baking soda with five parts distilled white vinegar and five parts water in a spray bottle. Alternatively, you can use a chemical-based mold and mildew remover, all-purpose cleaners, bleach or dish soap.

What is a good mold release for plaster?

There are commercial mold release agents available, but people often use Vaseline, liquid hand soap, Pam Cooking Spray, Crisco, Vegetable Oil, liquid soap, or Murphy's Oil Soap. Vaseline is thick and stiff, and thus tends to leave brush marks behind.

How do you test for mold on plaster walls?

You can purchase a moisture reading device and check if a particular area has moisture. If there is moisture, then it's more than likely there's going to be mold. When you find the wettest area, cut open 6 “ by 6 “ and then use a bright flashlight to inspect if there is growth.

Do all plaster walls have asbestos?

Unfortunately, there wasn't a regulated or realistic way to ensure that all older buildings using plaster walls were asbestos-free. Asbestos was commonly added to plaster until the late 1980s, as it was seen as an inexpensive way to add to the plaster's insulation and fire-retardant properties.

How to get rid of mold on walls permanently?

The only effective way to permanently get rid of mould problems is by reducing the build-up of moisture in your home. This can only be achieved through better ventilation.

How long does it take for plaster to mold?

The plaster will take anywhere between 3 hours and 3 days to fully cure, but it's typically dry enough to remove from the mould in 30min-1hr. It's a good idea to let it finish setting outside of the mould to speed up the process.

What is the black mould on my plaster wall?

Black Mould on walls (Stachybotrys chartarum, Aspergillus niger or others) is often a sign of a serious problem in your home that needs to be thoroughly investigated. It is often caused by excess condensation, usually as a result of a lack of ventilation in the home that results in high humidity levels.

How long does it take to get sick from mold exposure?

According to the CDC, people usually experience their first symptoms within 2 to 9 hours of their first exposure. On the other hand, some people could go for weeks or months before feeling sick if their exposure is limited enough. This is why it is also important to check damp, dark areas of your home for mold.

How to tell if your house is toxic?

Allergies, Irritations, or Respiratory Problems

One of the first (and most alarming) signs that your home has poor air quality is if you or your family experience an increase in allergies, irritations, or respiratory problems. These sudden changes can be caused by a variety of air contaminants, such as: Mold spores.

What does a mold cough sound like?

The cough is typically dry and non-productive, meaning it doesn't bring up mucus. It is sometimes described as having a "barking" or "hacking" sound.

Can mold grow behind plaster?

Yes, mold can grow on plaster. Just like other types of building materials, plaster that has been painted, is dirty, or has been damaged is prime for mold growth. If you find mold growth on your plaster walls, what can you do about it? Read on to learn about mold remediation and prevention for plaster walls.

Is it safe to clean black mold yourself?

Thus, exposure to the toxicity of black mold can cause harm to our physical health. Cleaning it yourself risks a greatly increased chance of acquiring damaging health conditions by unsettling the toxins into the air. Depending on the frequency of mold exposure, an individual's health can be severely compromised.

What are the symptoms of mold exposure?

Symptoms
  • Sneezing.
  • Runny or stuffy nose.
  • Cough and postnasal drip.
  • Itchy eyes, nose and throat.
  • Watery eyes.
  • Dry, scaly skin.

What do professionals use for mold remediation?

Equipment Used in Mold Remediation

Air scrubbers play a crucial role and filter out mold spores from the air, ensuring a cleaner environment. HEPA vacuums are also vital, adeptly removing mold particles from surfaces. To detect hidden mold, we use moisture meters, pinpointing damp areas prone to mold growth.

Is Clorox or vinegar better for mold?

Is bleach or vinegar better to kill mold? Vinegar is better at killing mold because it can work on both porous and nonporous surfaces. It also terminates molds at their roots so the mold won't return and is also safer than bleach.

What eats away at mold?

Vinegar is natural and safe mild acid that can kill 82% of mold species. Plus it doesn't give off dangerous fumes like bleach. If you want to use vinegar to prevent mold growth on surfaces, spray vinegar on the surface and leave it. Repeat every few days to keep the surface mold-free.

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