Painting your house following flood damage
After NZ has seen the devastation that extensive flooding can do, we have put together some information to help out when it's time to repaint following flood damage.
To prevent additional paint damage, it's important your house is water tight as soon as possible after flooding. Depending on the extent of the flooding, it's important to have a professional inspect your home to make sure its structurally sound and safe - including all electronics - and safe to re-enter.
Safely remove all debris, mud and water. Wear suitable protective clothing and gloves. Proper ventilation is crucial to help dry out damaged surfaces. Ensure that affected areas are well ventilated by opening windows and doors (if weather permits) or use dehumidifiers and fans to help circulate air.
All flood damaged plasterboard, insulation, and timber that cannot be saved should be removed and replaced. Sound and completely dry surfaces can be cleaned with Selleys Sugar Soap. Mould may have started to show in some areas but it is recommended to treat all affected areas, including those above the water level, with Selleys Rapid Mould Killer as mould can be present but not visible prior to repainting.
Here’s how to treat mould and some steps you can take to help prevent it from returning.
PRECISION® High Opacity Stain Blocker
For walls with water staining from flood damage we recommend Dulux PRECISION High Opacity Stain Blocker in place of 1Step, to prime and seal the surface. Prepare the walls as above and apply one coat of the stain blocker evenly across the whole wall surface and allow to dry before applying your topcoat.
PRECISION® Stain & Mould Blocker
For walls heavily affected by mould we recommend Dulux PRECISION Stain and Mould Blocker in place of 1Step primer. Once existing mould is eliminated, apply one coat of stain and mould blocker evenly to the whole surface and allow to dry before applying your topcoat.
1Step® Prep Water Based Primer, Sealer & Undercoat
Dulux 1Step® Prep Water Based Primer, Sealer & Undercoat is your first step toward a superior long-lasting paint finish. With mould resistance and stain blocking of tannin and flash rust, 1Step® Prep ensures your interior or exterior paint shines now and into the future.
Ready to get started? Find your nearest Dulux retailer with our store finder.
Our local Customer Service team is available to assist with colour, product and service questions. The Call Centre is open 6 days a week on 0800 800 424 and LiveChat is available 7 days a week.
Available 7 days a week, start a chat with our team to discuss everything you need to gain colour confidence.
Choose from our wide selection of licensed and insured painters New Zealand-wide to find the right one for your job.
