MDF wall paneling and mold

moireR · 15-01-2015 12:39am #1

I am thinking of doing full wall paneling in my hall using MDF.

My concern is damp/mold/mildew building up behind it over time.
The house is ten year old but wasn't finished to the best standards regarding insulation etc.
Already we have mold problems with built in wardrobes and furniture placed against external walls (detached house so most of the walls are external walls)

Would we have the same problem with paneling?

Has anyone any experience of using MDF as wall paneling?Any advise?

Also my hall is narrow-perhaps any suggestions as to what style to go for that would make it look wider?

slimjimmc · 15-01-2015 1:24am

It might be ok if the walls to be clad are internal but imo if you already have mould problems why risk creating more potential problems. I'd look in more detail at the cause(s) of the existing mould, it may not be due to poor insulation although that may be a factor, e.g. are the rooms frequently heated and have you adequate ventilation (e.g. wall vents kept open).

I think panelling would make it look narrower. Clever use of paint and lighting would brighten and may make it look bigger, perhaps add mirrors. The Interior Design & Decoration forum might have some styling ideas.

Calahonda52 · 15-01-2015 11:31am

U need to try and reduce the amt of moisture in the house as noted above.
No answers required here to what follows, this is not Operation Dampness!
Have u and do u use
Extraction fans in kitchen, bathrooms ensuites?
Are wall vents open in all bedrooms.
Do u dry clothes on house
Do u have and use a condensing tumbler drier?
Do u wash dishes in kitchen sink with lodsa hot water.
The thing about air borne dampness is that the source can be at one end of the house and that cold spot behind the settee could be 50 feet away.
The damp air will find it.

Re MDF, no, wouldnt do it as you may be covering up damp patches in wall.
Think about more insulation in attic, make attic hatch airtight and think about external insulation.
Hope this helps