Can I paint this pipe inside a wardrobe?

basildill

Hello, wise and kind Bunnings crew/forum members. 

There is a pipe inside the wall of my built-in wardrobe (not sure of its purpose). I was wondering if you think it's okay for me to paint a stain and odour blocker (Zinsser BIN shellac-based sealer) over the base of it, in case it's the source of a weird smell inside my wardrobe? Is there any reason I shouldn't?

More context: I recent got mould remediation done inside my wardrobe wall (which involved a hole getting cut in the wall, and the carpet removed), partly to address a weird vintage-y smell that was inside my wardrobe. The weird smell still lingers, and the wall measures quite dry inside (suggesting no active leaks), so I'm trying what I can think of to try to address the smell, without knowing its source. 

MitchellMc

Hi @basildill,

I can't think of any reason why you couldn't paint over it. It might be worth having a plumbing come out and check that fitting at the base to see if might not be sealed correctly. The downpipe appears to be glued into the base plate due to the blue glue residue at the joint. It might be worth running some silicone around this joint, prior to painting over it all.

Also, note the darker-coloured timber on the board behind the pipe. This could indicate dampness or that it was affected by moisture at some point. Stick your nose up against those darker patches on the board, especially in the corner, to see if it's the area where the funkiness is emanating from.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell