8 Design Strategies to avoid Mould Formation & improve the health of your home…
Moisture and Mould: A Pervasive Health Issue in Modern Buildings
Moisture and mould formation are among the most widespread health issues affecting modern buildings, particularly in hot and humid climates. This is a critical concern, as excessive indoor moisture creates ideal conditions for mould growth, posing significant health risks to occupants.
The NCC 2022 has made significant strides in addressing issues of mould and condensation through updated requirements; however, more action is needed. Expanding mould-preventive measures within architectural codes would further guide developers in adopting advanced design strategies and selecting superior construction and interior materials to effectively mitigate mould growth and safeguard occupant health.
Understanding Mould
Mould, a type of fungus, belongs to one of the five main kingdoms of life on Earth. Remarkably, over 25% of the planet’s biomass is fungi (Herman, 2021). The indoor mycoflora comprises three primary fungal species: Ascomycetes, Basidiomycetes, and Zygomycetes, which thrive under damp indoor conditions.
When moisture levels are high indoors, mould spores germinate and release enzymes to break down cellulose-based building materials. These enzymes convert starches and sugars into nutrients, fostering mould proliferation (Heseltine & Rosen, 2021).
Health Issues Associated with Mould
To secure their nutrient sources, moulds produce mycotoxins, which can be neurotoxic or immune-suppressive, disrupting various biological processes (World Health Organization [WHO], 2021). Exposure to mould is associated with Non-Specific Building-Related Illness (NSBRI), a term highlighting the complexity of linking specific illnesses to mould exposure. Common symptoms include:
Airflow obstruction in healthy individuals
Irritation of mucous membranes
Lower respiratory illness
Skin symptoms
Fatigue (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2023).
Dr. Al Zarouni, cited in The National News (2023), emphasised that mould allergy symptoms include watery, itchy eyes, chronic cough, headaches or migraines, difficulty breathing, rashes, fatigue, sinus problems, nasal blockage, and frequent sneezing.
Common Design Mistakes and Effective Solutions
1. Using Non-Waterproof Gypsum Panels for False Ceilings
Issue: Gypsum panels absorb moisture, causing condensation and mould growth.
Solution: Use waterproof, paperless gypsum panels for ceilings, especially in wet areas.
2. Inaccessible Air Conditioning Ducts and Ceilings
Issue: Dust and mould accumulate due to lack of regular maintenance.
Solution: Ensure accessible design for cleaning ducts, fan coil units, and false ceilings annually.
3. Lack of Drip Pans Under Sink Pipes
Issue: Undetected leaks damage MDF cabinets, leading to mould growth.
Solution: Install aluminium drip pans beneath sink pipes.
4. Installing Wallpapers in High-Humidity Areas
Issue: Humidity gets trapped between wallpaper and walls, causing mould growth.
Solution: Avoid wallpapers in wet areas or on walls adjacent to bathrooms, kitchens, or external walls.
5. Failure to Monitor Indoor Humidity Levels
Issue: High humidity encourages mould growth on curtains and artwork.
Solution: Use humidity meters to maintain levels between 40-50%.
6. Using Grout in Shower Niches
Issue: Stagnant water in grout lines fosters mould.
Solution: Avoid grout in niches and dry shower floors and walls after use.
7. Improper Bathroom Cabinet Design
Issue: Wooden cabinets in contact with concrete walls absorb moisture, causing mould.
Solution: Use water-resistant MDF, apply ceramic tiles between cabinets and walls, and elevate cabinets 20-30 cm above the floor.
8. Poor Ventilation in Bathrooms and Laundry Areas
Issue: Inadequate ventilation leads to trapped moisture, creating an environment conducive to mould growth on walls, ceilings, and fixtures.
Solution: Incorporate high-capacity exhaust fans with humidity sensors that automatically activate when moisture levels rise. Ensure proper ducting to expel moist air outside the building, rather than into ceiling voids or attics. Additionally, design spaces to include operable windows for natural ventilation whenever possible.
Healthy Home Expert - Final Thoughts…
At LIVINGHAUS, we believe creating healthier indoor environments starts with addressing one of the most pressing issues in modern buildings: moisture and mould. By embracing thoughtful design strategies, selecting high-quality, non-toxic materials, and adopting proactive maintenance practices, we can significantly reduce the risks of mould growth, its impact on well-being, and the long-term damage it causes to structures.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 2023, Mould: Basic Facts, CDC. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov
Herman, J. 2021, Fungi and their Role in Ecosystems, Journal of Mycology, vol. 23, no. 4, pp. 235-240.
Heseltine, E. & Rosen, J. 2021, Indoor Air Quality and Health, World Health Organization, Geneva. Available at: https://www.who.int
The National News 2023, Mould Problems in the UAE: Health and Prevention Tips, The National. Available at: https://www.thenationalnews.com
World Health Organization (WHO) 2021, Guidelines on Indoor Air Quality: Dampness and Mould, WHO. Available at: https://www.who.int
