Black marks can be frustrating. They can make your home feel dirtier, and they could mess with your interior design. Luckily, most of the time, these annoying marks can be easily cleaned up through simple household means. If your plaster is cracked or your paint is messed up, then you can have professionals freshen up your walls for you.
What Causes Black Marks On Walls?
Before you begin to clean anything, you should first understand where the marks came from. This way, you can deal with the cause of the marks so they don’t happen again. Black marks can be harmless, surface-level annoyances, or they could indicate health hazards.
What are the most common causes of black marks on walls?
- Scuff Marks. Certain materials can leave unsightly marks on walls. Black marks could be caused by rubber being rubbed against walls, such as from shoes or bags. If you notice black marks on a specific part of your wall, look at the furniture and decor near the marks. Plus, think about how your family uses that area and what could be rubbing against the wall.
- Mould And Mildew. Mould and mildew are common in damp environments. You can identify these issues by their look, location and texture. Black mould generally grows in circular patterns and may feel slimy. Mould and mildew both have a musty, unpleasant smell and can also cause sneezing and coughing. Mould and mildew generally grow in damp conditions, so they’re common around pipes.
- Smoke And Soot Stains. Black, grey or brownish stains could appear on walls in homes with fireplaces, wood-burning stoves or with candles. They can also appear if people smoke cigarettes indoors.
- Grease And Skin Oil. Grease from hands, cooking or other daily activities can stick to walls and create unpleasant staining.
- Marker, Pencil And Ink Marks. Stains can be caused by writing utensils like markers and pens.
How To Clean Black Marks On Walls
Before you begin cleaning, remember to consider the type of walls you have. Take appropriate measures for paint, plaster and wallpapered walls so you avoid damaging the walls themselves. While painted and plaster walls tend to be durable, wallpaper may be more fragile.
Regardless, be sure you don’t use overly harsh chemicals, tools or cleaning methods, as they could damage your walls. What can you do? Here are some essential tips:
- Take Care Of Simple Marks With Water And A Sponge Or Cloth. Simple scuff marks can typically be cleaned up with water and a cleaning tool like a sponge, cloth or soft brush. Wipe at the stains until they come off.
- Use A Damp Tool, Not A Soaked One. When you wet your sponge or cloth, wring it out so it’s damp instead of soaked. Too much moisture can cause damage, so you want to use just enough moisture.
- Start With Gentle Strokes. Start gently, gradually applying pressure if needed. Scrub the mark from different directions to get at it from opposing angles.
- Use A Mild Cleaner And Water Cleaning Solution. If water isn’t enough, then use a mild mixture of water and bleach or a chemical cleaning solution. Spray the solution onto the marks and resume scrubbing. If you’re dealing with a grease stain, use a drop of dishwashing soap as well. Rubbing alcohol can be used for ink. Consider spot-testing the chemical cleaner you’re using on a hidden part of your wall to make sure it won’t discolour or damage the surface.
- Sprinkle Baking Soda On A Cloth For Tough Marks. If the black mark is proving to be extra stubborn, sprinkle some baking soda on and continue scrubbing at the mark with circular motions.
- Completely Dry The Wall. Once the black stain has been removed, wipe the damp area with a dry cloth to completely dry it. Remember to look into the root cause of the stains to prevent them from happening again.
When You Should Call In The Professional Painters And Plasterers
Sometimes, you should leave the tougher work to the professionals. Simple stains can be handled with a little housework, but serious damage to your walls can be fixed through professional services. If your plaster is cracked or your paint is chipped, then call experts to fix your walls for you.
Cracks in plaster can grow over time, eventually turning into hazards. If you notice cracks in your walls or ceiling, then consider professional plastering to fix the cracks while they’re smaller, easier and cheaper to deal with.
If your paint is damaged or chipped, then expert painters can revitalise your walls with brand-new paint. Repainting your walls is also an excellent way to refresh your home if your interior design feels outdated.
Keeping Your Home Beautiful With Professional Plastering, Painting And More
How would you like to improve your interiors? Check out our website to learn more about our plastering work, painting services and more.
You can get the process started by calling us on 021446716 or messaging us online.
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