The Manufactured Housing Forums

Hi,
I have a question about my bathroom ceiling. We have popcorn ceiling and no exhaust fan. This has created mildew on the ceiling. We sprayed some stuff that was suppose to kill the mildew, but instead made it look like a leak. This is almost half of the bathroom ceiling. How would I repair this? I thought of scrapping the popcorn off and re-painting the ceiling, but I'm not sure if this would work. I would appreciate any help with this. Thanks.

Get a product called Kilz. You can find it at most home renovation supply stores like Lowes or Home Depot or even your local hardware store. It is like a paint primer that will cover just about any stain on a painted surface. It comes in cans that you have to apply with a roller or brush but also comes in spray cans.

Click here to learn how to prep and paint your ceiling. Note especially the safety section and be very sure you have adequate ventilation while doing this job, as the problem your trying to correct is probably caused by inadequate ventilation. You dont want to be breathing in the Kilz or paint fumes or spray.

After you prime with Kilz, paint the ceiling with a good ceiling paint, one that seals and won't permit water absorption to the popcorn (ask the guys in the paint department for the best product) . After it is dry spray it with a non-staining mildew inhibitor. Re-apply the mildew inhibitor from time to time.

You can treat a small slice of plywood or wall board with the primer and paint and use it to test mildew inhibitors to be sure they won't stain.

You should consider installing a vented fan in the bathroom to insure that the same problem won't reoccur.