Written by Brett Abraham, Principal Consultant at Survey Asbestos | Thomas Consultants  

How Does Increased Rainfall Impact Mould Growth?

Increased rainfall in the winter months provides the ideal conditions for mould to grow due mainly to a cold, damp, and dark environment. Mould is often concentrated near sources of moisture where it can easily grow and reproduce. As it grows, mould can breakdown and compromise the integrity and strength of the source in which it lives including many common building materials such as timber and plasterboard. It can also damage personal items such as those made from leather, paper products, wall art and pictures.

So How Can You Manage Mould In Your Home or Building?

Mould spores are microscopic and are found in the air we breathe in both indoor and outdoor environments at different concentrations. There are many different types of mould and some can cause adverse health effects. Mould can be killed, but if it is not done properly, it will reproduce when the conditions are right and release spores into the air which can cause damage to building materials. Mould remediation services can help eliminate the mould in your home or building and personal items affected by water damage. But be warned, not all mould is visible and can be in hidden areas such as wall cavities.

Here’s our top 16 tips to prevent mould growth:

• Keeping all areas clean.
• Make sure there is good air circulation throughout your home. Make sure to use your exhaust fan and rangehood when showering and cooking and opening windows and doors when the weather isn’t too cold to provide circulation.
• Keeping curtains and blinds open during the day to let the sun in.
• If you see condensation on windows, pipes, or walls inside a building, dry them as soon as possible.
• Insulate your ceiling and underfloor areas. If you have existing insulation, check that its thickness hasn’t degraded by more than 30% of its original thickness and is not damp or mouldy.
• Use a dehumidifier when possible.
• Installing a home ventilation system if it is suitable for your home.
• Inspect outside drainage systems, making sure there is no pooled water or blocked drains.
• Install a moisture-barrier in the crawl space over the soil. ‘Thick’ polyethylene can be used for this. Ensure there is good ventilation in the crawl space and, if possible, do not enclose it.
• If your area is subject to freezing temperatures, take measures to insulate pipes inside and out to ensure they will not crack or burst.
• Dux Qest plumbing (black pipes) installed in the late 1970’s and 1980’s is infamous for spontaneously failing and causing leaks. If you suspect you have this type of plumbing, contact a licensed plumber for an assessment.
• Make sure all door and window seals are in good condition. Install weatherstrip around doors and windows if there are gaps.
• Check the condition of your roof & clean gutters and drains regularly. Check that downpipes are not blocked
• Check the condition of your roof on a regular basis.
• Clean your shower regularly with a mould killer and check for signs of mould growth around silicone sealants and grout lines.
• Make sure the ground around your building slopes away from the foundation so water does not collect around or enter in to it.

For more information on how to prevent Mould in your home, please download ‘Fighting Mould’ below:

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Let us help you

If you are concerned about mould in your home or building, Thomas Consultants offers both surface and airborne mould testing. Laboratory testing will confirm the type of mould and safe levels in your home or building. We can also talk to you about remediation options.

We look forward to hearing from you!