Painting - moisture: using ADD-2 mildewcide additive or PERMA-WHITE paint?

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ohman
06-18-09, 01:34 AM
Dear all:

We have a house in San Francisco that is very close to the ocean and the interior is prone to moisture problem. So I'm in the process to choose a interior paint that would really prevent mildew/mold problem for THE WHOLE HOUSE. I'm thinking of either getting Kelly Moore (or Benjamin Moore) latex (water) based interior paint then add the "ADD-2" (mildewcide additive) to the paint, OR just buy the PERMA-WHITE paint. Is there any differences between these two approaches? Any experience, thoughts, or comments about this? For us, to prevent future mildew/mold problem is the first priority. As the house is so close to the ocean and SF has a long fog season, even we do a really good job to waterproof the outside wall, the inside usually would get relative humidity of 70% or so. We suspect that there is also condensation issue in the house, but we don't always remember to turn on the dehumidifier. Thanks!

For ADD-2 mildewcide additive:
Control Mold and Mildew - Get rid of mold and mildew (http://www.zinsser.com/product_detail.asp?ProductId=34)

For PERMA-WHITE paint:
Mold Mildew Resistant Paint - PERMA-WHITE Mildew-Proof* Bathroom Paint (http://www.zinsser.com/product_detail.asp?ProductId=35)


marksr
06-18-09, 05:38 AM
Either method should give you good results although your color tint is limitted with perma white. You might also check into kitchen and bath enamels - they have extra mildewcide.

It would still be a good idea to get in the habit of running the dehumidifier! Using the HVAC system also helps in reducing humidity.

Bigg_Billy
06-18-09, 11:54 AM
Either method should give you good results although your color tint is limitted with perma white. You might also check into kitchen and bath enamels - they have extra mildewcide.

It would still be a good idea to get in the habit of running the dehumidifier! Using the HVAC system also helps in reducing humidity.

Agreed, I'd slant toward the Zinsser product, they are the leaders in stain and mildew containment...


airman.1994
06-18-09, 02:57 PM
A dehumidifier would be the best approach.

bclacquer
06-18-09, 06:57 PM
remember, the mildewcide in the additive or the Perma white only works for mold and mildew that grows on the surface of the film, it does not prevent mold/mildew from growing from behind the film. Furthermore, you should wash the area with a mold/mildew killer. Liquid bleach does NOT kill mold. You should use Perma Wash from Zinnser. Then do 2 coats of Perma White.