Replies

1. 
   Michael_Richwine | Oct 09, 1999 08:01pm | #1

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   Your paint store will have a product for killing mildew. It's basically chlorine bleach in a spray bottle, so you could use that, too.

   Definitely put mildew additive in your paint to prevent the problem from cropping up again.

1. 
   Jed_C. | Oct 11, 1999 08:11pm | #2

   *Regular household bleach (such as Clorox) will kill mildew. Dilute it 1:3 with water, sponge it on mildewed areas, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then rinse it off with plain water, twice.Wear good rubber gloves and eye protection--even at diluted strengths, bleach will cause chemical burns on your skin that will leave you in pain for days.Let the wood dry thoroughly before you paint it, and it won't hurt to use a mildewcide mixed into the paint.

1. 
   Sue_B. | Oct 11, 1999 10:55pm | #3

   *I really appreciate your straightforward advice. I sponged the door with 3:1 water/household bleach, scrubbing the bad spots with a cookware scrub sponge so as not to scratch the glazing and rinsed with lots of plain water. I cringed the whole time about getting so much water on it but it dried OK and looks just fine. Thanks!

1. 
   Jed_C. | Oct 12, 1999 07:05pm | #4

   *Good to hear that you were successful. It wouldn't hurt to let the wood dry out for another couple of days before you apply a finish.