DIY expert warns why you should never paint over mould - what to do instead

There are many methods that you can use to get rid of black mould, but one expert has said that painting over it is not the best idea - and that it should be treated properly instead

As the chill sets in, you might start spotting black mould creeping around your windows and in damper spots of your home like the bathroom.

While there are steps you can take to ward off mould, it's quite the foe once it settles in. You might be tempted by an arsenal of sprays, DIY fixes, and vigorous scrubbing brushes, but beware - experts have issued a warning about one common fix that can actually do more harm than good down the line.

Jamie Hancox, a painting expert and managing director at Tikkurila, told the Huffington Post why putting paint over mould is a risky move. They said: "Even though it may appear that you have visually taken care of the problem, the mould spores will still be alive beneath the coat of paint you have applied and will soon show through again."

So, not only have you splashed out on paint for nothing, but your time spent wrestling with the mould problem has simply swept it under the rug for a short while. According to NHS advice: "Moulds produce allergens (substances that can cause an allergic reaction), irritants and, sometimes, toxic substances.

"Inhaling or touching mould spores may cause an allergic reaction, such as sneezing, a runny nose, red eyes and skin rash. Moulds can also cause asthma attacks.

But what about anti-mould paint? Paint giant Dulux notes that the "fungicidal chemicals which repel mould" might lose their effectiveness over time, warning that "mould may reappear if the underlying cause hasn't been addressed or the area wasn't cleaned sufficiently before painting."

To reduce the chances of mould at home, investing in a dehumidifier and ensuring proper ventilation is recommended.