Does mold come through wallpaper?

Author: Myra Prosacco  |  Last update: Tuesday, April 29, 2025

Leaks, water damage, and thermal bridges can permeate your outer and inner walls, and without a way to drain or dry, mold under wallpaper is highly probable. Mold loves dark, moist environments, and the space behind your wallpaper just might be perfect, especially during the summer months when humidity is high.

Can mold grow through wallpaper?

The most common type of mould that grows behind wallpaper is black mould (Stachybotrys chartarum). Some research suggests it can produce mycotoxins and lead to major health problems, like mycotoxicosis, but there is not much evidence to support this. However, this is not to say mould is not a serious issue.

How to stop mold from coming through wallpaper?

Prevent Mold Growth Behind your Wallpaper: Prep Work

A coat of acrylic primer provides a new, even surface on the wall which makes it easier to slide wallpaper into position. It also prevents the wall itself from absorbing moisture, which protects against mold growth.

Is wallpaper resistant to mold?

Over time, even its water-resistant properties may not fully protect it from moisture-related damage, such as peeling or mold development. In short, paste-the-wall wallpaper can work well in specific bathroom situations but may not be as reliable as peel-and-stick vinyl when it comes to high-moisture environments.

How to get rid of mold under wallpaper?

White vinegar is a natural and effective mould remover that is very effective when used on wallpaper. All you need to do is mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply it to the affected area, allowing it to sit for several hours or even overnight.

How to Paint over Mould & Mildew

What does mold under wallpaper look like?

Take a close look for signs of mold on the wall or the back of the paper. It might look black, red, orange, grainy, splotchy, or discolored.

What are symptoms of black mold exposure?

The most common symptoms of black mold exposure include:
  • Sneezing.
  • Coughing.
  • Nasal congestion.
  • Postnasal drip.
  • Red eyes.

Is wallpaper in a bathroom a bad idea?

If you're intending to use regular wallpaper, then use it sparingly in your bathroom. Make sure that you apply the wallpaper to a very well prepared wall - your wallpaper is going to have to withstand a humid environment, so give it as good a foundation as you can. Don't use grasscloth wallpaper in a bathroom!

What can I put on my walls to prevent mold?

For this reason, we highly recommend Suretherm Anti-Condensation Paint. Suretherm helps prevent the route cause of the problem - the moisture! Suretherm Anti Condensation Paint is an internal water-based emulsion that is specifically designed to help deal with internal mould and damp caused by condensation.

Can you paint over mold on wallpaper?

Unfortunately, you can't just paint over damp or mould in the hope it will disappear. Even if you use waterproof paint, it can still seep through over time. Depending on how bad the problem is, you may be able to remove the mould by cleaning the area without repainting.

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.

Should I strip mouldy wallpaper?

Where you do find mould behind wallpaper, it will be best to strip your wallpaper, address the cause and start afresh. Stripping wallpaper will also be the best solution in cases where the paper has become very badly affected by mould.

Is there paint that kills mold?

Zinsser Mold Killing Primer is a water-based EPA registered fungicidal protective coating that can be used to paint over and kill all existing mold, mildew, moss, fungi, odor causing bacteria and any other fungal organisms. It prevents the growth of mold, mildew and other fungal organisms on the paint film.

How to stop damp coming through wallpaper?

You can treat this by:

Condensation is generally easy to remove as it is so common. You can purchase antibacterial sprays that will remove the build-up of mould on the walls, which should be used and left to dry before applying your wallpaper of choice.

Is mold on walls permanent?

The question of whether mould can be removed permanently is one that concerns many homeowners dealing with mould issues. While it's challenging to completely eliminate mould spores from the environment, it is possible to achieve long-term mould control and effectively remove it from your walls.

How to get rid of mold naturally?

Vinegar typically performs best on mold when it is used undiluted in full strength. Simply transfer the white vinegar into a spray bottle. Spray the vinegar directly onto the mold. Do not rinse or scrub.

What are the 10 warning signs of mold toxicity?

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 remove mold from wallpaper?

Mix one part bleach with four parts water, then carefully wipe the area using a sponge or cloth. Scrub the mould gently, and make sure to wipe away the mixture afterward to avoid leaving residue. Bleach is a strong cleaner, so only use this method on more stubborn mould spots, and remember to ventilate the room well.

What does mold hate?

Mold hates light. Other than moisture there's nothing mold loves more than dark places. An easy prevention against mold growth is opening your blinds and shades. If it's warm enough out, open the windows.

What type of wallpaper is best for bathrooms?

Choose vinyl for the most durable bathroom wallpaper. Unlike conventional wallpaper, 100% vinyl wallpaper does not degrade over time or develop mold in high-moisture environments like bathrooms.

Does wallpaper devalue a home?

Here are some common home improvement projects that could decrease the value of your home: Too much wallpaper. Built-in electronics. Wall-to-wall carpeting.

How do I protect my bathroom wallpaper?

For standard non-woven papers (the vast majority of papers sold on beut) A decorator's varnish such as Polyvine can be purchased to protect wallpaper from things such as water, finger marks, scuffing, colour fading and abrasion.

Can a person live in a house with black mold?

Is it okay to be in house with black mold? Black mold can cause health problems. As such, it is not advisable to be in a house with black mold. If a person must stay in a house with black mold, they should try to seal off any areas where black mold is present to reduce contact with it.

How to tell if your house is toxic?

If you suspect your asthma worsens or is more severe than usual, contact your doctor or medical professional.
  1. Bad Smells In The Home. When there's a bad smell in the home, you can tell. ...
  2. Peeling Wallpaper. ...
  3. Spots On The Wall. ...
  4. Bad Allergies Won't Go Away. ...
  5. Visible Mold Growth. ...
  6. Past Water Damage.

Can I test myself for mold exposure?

Urine mycotoxin tests are ideal for testing yourself (and your family members) for mycotoxin exposure. They're absolutely painless, totally non-invasive, and incredibly easy to use.

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