Mould: How to stop a growing problem

(NC)—Health Canada estimates that Canadians spend almost 90 per cent of their time indoors, underlining the importance of good indoor air quality in keeping Canadians healthy. Air quality can be affected by a number of variables with one of the most common contributors to poor air quality being mould.

Mould is a highly preventable – yet surprisingly common – problem. Masonry products offer the unique advantage of being able to stop mould problems before they begin because brick, block and stone work to maintain good indoor air quality, as opposed to endanger it.

Research shows that in recent years there has been a shift towards the use of inexpensive building materials, in part to help decrease building costs. However, while these materials may offer cost savings up front, they can have a devastating effect on the health of our communities.

Masonry products are the best choice for preventing mould growth for two reasons: masonry veneer wall systems offer superior moisture management, and they do not provide a food source for the mould to flourish. Concrete block, in particular, has been instrumental in ensuring commercial and public buildings remain mould-free.

The increased use of materials such as vinyl or metal siding and exterior insulated finishing systems (EIFS) in residential communities may contribute to moisture accumulation in the wall systems and mould growth in two ways: by allowing water penetration into the wall system or by inhibiting the drying of moisture to the exterior.

Choosing the right cladding materials is imperative to maintaining healthy indoor air quality at home. Masonry products offer benefits above and beyond the cost savings associated with alternative claddings. A properly designed masonry drainage wall system allows moisture to naturally pass through the wall and to drain out through the weep-hole system; moisture is contained in the cavity and never penetrates the vapour/air barrier, thus protecting the inside of a building or a home from mould.

Incorporating masonry materials into the design of homes is not only more aesthetically pleasing, but also contributes to superior resale value and provides a healthier, safer home.