Mould growth in buildings can pose significant health risks and damage to building materials. While total and complete elimination of all mould is nearly impossible, we can take proactive measures to prevent its growth by addressing the primary factors: moisture and food sources.
According to the IICRC S520(Standard for Professional Mold Remediation) and other relevant standards, controlling moisture is key to effective mould management.
This guide outlines steps to prevent and minimize mould in buildings, incompliance with industry standards such as IICRC S500 (Water Damage Restoration), IICRC S520 (Mould Remediation), IICRC S530 (HVAC Cleaning), and IIVRV S550 (HVAC Mold Remediation*).
There are FOUR Key Steps to Managing and Preventing Mould Growth
Control Moisture
Control Indoor Humidity Levels
Maintain Cleanliness
Implement A Mould Management Plan
Control Moisture
Mould needs moisture to thrive, making moisture control the most critical aspect of mould prevention.
Maintain Indoor Humidity Levels: IICRC S520 recommends keeping relative humidity below 60% to prevent mould growth. If humidity exceeds this level, use dehumidifiers and ensure proper building ventilation, as suggested in AS/NZS 3666 (Air-Handling and Water Systems of Buildings).
Fix Leaks: Regularly inspect and repair leaks in roofs, walls, and plumbing (IICRC S500). Water intrusions from leaks are a primary cause of mould growth. Notify the building manager of the unit immediately when wet building materials are identified.
Manage Condensation: Condensation on indoor building surfaces and contents can lead to moisture buildup. Proper moisture control of building surface by ventilation or dehumidification equipment are crucial to avoid mould growth in areas prone to condensation. IICRC S520 emphasizes this for preventing mould growth in the indoor living spaces.
What is Condensation on Building Surfaces?
Condensation occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with a cooler surface, causing water vapor in the air to cool down and change into liquid form. This can happen on various building surfaces such as windows, walls, ceilings, and pipes. Condensation can lead to moisture accumulation, which, if not properly managed, can result in problems like mould growth, deterioration of building materials, and reduced indoor air quality.
Common Surfaces Where Condensation Forms:
Windows and Glass: Especially during cold weather and dawn hours, warm indoor air meets cooler window surfaces, leading to condensation.
Walls and Ceilings: External walls or uninsulated surfaces may accumulate condensation in colder weather.
Bathrooms and Kitchens: High moisture activities, such as cooking or showering, contribute to surface condensation in these areas.
How is Condensation Prevented?
Preventing condensation requires addressing both humidity control and temperature differentials. Here are some key things to help prevent condensation indoors:
Raise the average temperature of the house by one or two degrees.
Open blinds for air circulation (closed blinds trap warm air in the space between the glass pane & blinds).
Use a ceiling fan to help circulate warm air towards windows.
Run exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms.
Control Indoor Humidity Levels
Lowering humidity inside the building reduces the amount of moisture in the air, minimizing the risk of condensation.
Dehumidification: Use dehumidifiers in areas prone to high moisture, such as bathrooms, bedrooms or kitchens.
Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in areas of high moisture, like bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. Installing exhaust fans and using trickle vents can help remove moisture-laden air before condensation forms.
Air Conditioning: HVAC systems can regulate humidity by conditioning the air and keeping relative humidity below 60%, as recommended by the IICRC S500.
Maintain Cleanliness
Dust and organic materials provide food for mould. Keeping spaces clean is essential.
Regular Cleaning: Dust, dirt, and organic material such as wood or paper provide mould with food sources. Routine cleaning as per IICRC S760 standards for cleaning structures ensures potential food sources are eliminated. Use a HEPA rated vacuum (Nilfisk VP300 Hepa or similar)
Implement a Mould Management Plan
Creating and maintaining a mould prevention plan tailored to the building’s conditions will ensure long-term prevention.
Regular Inspections by the Unit/house occupant (owner, tenants): Schedule periodic inspections to identify potential mould issues early. IICRC S520 recommends scheduled inspections for buildings that have experienced water damage or moisture problems in the past.
Emergency Response Plan: NLR Restoration can assist with developing an emergency response plan, which includes quick action steps for water damage or mould outbreaks. IICRC S500 andS520 standards outline response protocols that minimize the impact of water intrusions.
By focusing on these proactive strategies in line with IICRC standards and relevant building codes (National Construction Code, AS/NZS 3666), you can significantly reduce the risk of mould growth, ensuring a safer, healthier indoor environment. Regular inspections, moisture control, proper material storage, and adequate ventilation are all essential parts of a comprehensive mould prevention plan. For tailored advice and further assistance with mould prevention and remediation, NLR Restoration offers scheduled inspection services and can develop a mould management plan specific to your building’s needs.
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