Hello,

I have a 10' X 10' concrete block constructed office (to be when finished). roof is solid concrete. Finally had a roofer do the roof so now no more leaks when it rains.

My question: on the interior, what's the recommended way to remove the old paint off the interior concrete block wall, which is peeling off in several areas, and also there is extensive mildew.

Should I pressure clean it to remove the paint and mildew? or use some stripping chemical?

Afterwards, I think I'll give the walls and concrete ceiling a coating of Kilz2, then paint over that. then...I'll have my own office!

I'll be installing a wall-unit A/C to keep moisture/humidity down to prevent further mildrew from recurring.

Many thanks to you all for your advice!

Majac777

 

What is the exterior finish?

 

Exterior finish is painted stucco over concrete block. (No building wrap was used).

Thanks, Majac777

 

So long as the exterior paint is latex so that it will breathe (although if the interior paint is peeling, it may well not be), you can kilz and paint it. If it was my office, I would make sure that the exterior paint was not oil, then use a product like thoroseal on the walls and ceiling (for texture and to seal it), then paint it with a latex.

 

Many thanks for the advice.

Can anyone answer my original question about the best method of removing existing peeling paint and mildew?

Thanks! Majac777

 

If it were exterior the SOP would be to start with a pressure washer but that might not work so well inside

Scraping and using a wire brush should get the block to a paintable condition. Bleach will kill/clean the mildew.

 

Media/Water blasting
Not really a DIY project

 

Thanks for all the advices.