Mould is more than just an eyesore — it's a sign that moisture is getting into places it shouldn't be. Left untreated, mould can damage your walls, floors, and even your health. If you've spotted mould in your home, it's important to act quickly and safely.
At Velliss Building, we often work with homeowners who are dealing with mould after leaks, poor ventilation, or failed waterproofing. Here's what you need to know about mould remediation and how to stop it from coming back.
☁️ What Causes Mould to Grow?
Mould needs three things to thrive: moisture, warmth, and poor airflow. It often appears in bathrooms, laundries, ceilings, behind walls, and even under floors — especially after a leak or during wet weather.
🚨 Signs You Have a Mould Problem
Black, green, or grey patches on walls, ceilings, or tiles. Peeling paint or bubbling plaster. A strong, musty smell in one area of the house. Increased allergies or respiratory symptoms in the home. If you notice these signs, don't ignore them. Mould can spread quickly and damage materials like plaster, timber, and insulation.
🧽 Can I Clean Mould Myself?
Small amounts of mould (under 1m²) can usually be cleaned safely using vinegar or a mould-killing spray — but only if you've fixed the source of the moisture first. Otherwise, it will return. Important: Never mix cleaning products like vinegar and bleach. Always wear gloves, goggles, and a mask to protect yourself.
🛠️ When to Call a Professional
If the mould covers a large area, keeps returning, or is in hard-to-reach places like behind walls or under floors, it's best to get professional remediation. Professional mould specialists will identify and fix the source of moisture, contain the affected area to prevent spreading, remove and dispose of contaminated materials if needed, treat surfaces to kill spores and stop regrowth, and advise on how to prevent future mould.
🛑 Don't Just Paint Over It
We've seen too many cases where someone painted over mould to hide it — but this doesn't solve the problem. In fact, it can make it worse by trapping moisture behind the wall.
✅ How to Prevent Mould in the First Place
Ensure proper waterproofing in wet areas (bathrooms, balconies, laundries). Fix leaks quickly, even small ones. Improve ventilation with exhaust fans, windows, or dehumidifiers. Insulate cold surfaces to reduce condensation. Keep an eye on areas with poor airflow, like wardrobes or behind furniture.
Final Thoughts
Mould isn't something to take lightly — but it can be dealt with effectively if you act early. Whether it's caused by a leak, failed waterproofing, or ventilation issues, the key is to fix the root cause, not just cover up the symptoms. At Velliss Building, we take moisture issues seriously and work with trusted professionals to ensure your home stays safe, healthy, and built to last.
Worried About Mould?
Spotted signs of mould or damp in your home? We can help you get to the source of the problem before it spreads.