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Please set the subtitles on Youtube in English.

Mould can be avoided by taking some precautions.

Mould growth

For mould to grow indoors, the mould spores must come into contact with either moisture or cold walls. If the water in these areas stagnates, mould growth is inevitable. If the moisture on a material surface remains at 80 degrees for a few days, the mould spores lead to the development of fungi.

Humidity

For various reasons, some areas may be damp, e.g. due to water ingress from outside through roof leaks, cracks in the walls, leaking windows, etc. Hidden water damage that is not immediately noticed can also cause problems, such as a defective hidden water pipe or a damaged pipe. Thermal bridges in the construction can also be a cause. Moisture also comes from inside (shower, bathroom, kitchen) and can be avoided by the behaviour of the occupants. Mould is most often found in the kitchen and in the bathroom, where the humidity inside is higher (vapours) and the bedroom is often affected. The colder outer walls are more often affected.

How to prevent mould

The following precautions are recommended to avoid moisture indoors:  

  • Always ventilate after showering, bathing and cooking
  • Air the windows briefly but thoroughly three to five times a day, open as many windows as possible for a maximum of 5 to 10 minutes to create a draught
  • Leave 5 to 10 cm space between furniture and cold walls (especially outside walls) to allow air to circulate
  • Hygrometer: Install a hygrometer and ventilate when the relative humidity is more than 45% in winter and more than 60% in spring and autumn
  • If you discover a damp wall or a water leak, determine the cause, repair the wall and let it dry, install a dehumidifier if necessary
  • Small black stains on the joints in the bathroom can be cleaned with vinegar or bleach (wear gloves)
  • Regularly clean and vacuum the ventilation openings in the bath and change or clean filters
  • Remove dust regularly, mould spores accumulate in house dust, especially on the floor
  • Close cellar doors and windows on hot summer days when warm, moist air enters the cellar and cellar rooms.

Be vigilant. Some moulds can be avoided.

 

More information that may be of interest to you:

How to save energy (heating)
How to improve good indoor air quality

© Written by Esther Lauber, Real Estate Trustee with Advanced Federal Diploma of Professional Education and Training, property manager
Translated from French to English with DeepL, in case of doubt, the French or Germain version should apply

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