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Mould can be more than an unpleasant sight or smell; it poses serious health risks and can compromise the structural integrity of buildings. At Climasure, we’re here to help you understand how mould forms, how it spreads, and what you can do to prevent it. Here’s what you need to know to keep your environment safe and healthy.

Why is Mould a Problem?

Mould thrives in damp environments and can lead to various health issues, including respiratory problems, allergies, and chronic fatigue, especially in people with weakened immune systems or a genetic pre- disposition. Mould releases spores and mycotoxins, which can be hazardous when inhaled. Given that about 24% of people cannot produce antibodies to fight mould, consistent exposure can result in severe inflammatory responses, sometimes leading to truly debilitating symptoms.  Below is a list of symptoms of varying severity that can be caused by mould and mycotoxin exposure:

• Respiratory issues: Coughing, wheezing, asthma-like symptoms, sinus congestion, and shortness of breath.
• Neurological symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, brain fog, difficulty concentrating, memory issues, and mood swings.
• Immune system effects: Increased susceptibility to infections, weakened immune response, and possible inflammation.
• Digestive symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
• Skin reactions: Rashes, itching, and sensitivity and electric shocks
• Fatigue and general malaise: Chronic fatigue, muscle aches, and joint pain.

What Causes Mould Growth?

Mould needs two things to grow: moisture and food. While we often think of major water events like leaks or floods, mould can also grow due to less obvious issues, such as condensation and high humidity. Factors such as inadequate ventilation, poor building practices, and moisture retention from daily activities like cooking, bathing, and washing clothes all contribute to an environment where mould can thrive. Newer, more energy-efficient homes that lack adequate ventilation are particularly susceptible.  With the building code tightening up on energy efficiency requirements and houses trending towards better airtightness, the topic of adequate ventilation is extremely important for the health of the building and the health of the occupants.  Build tight, ventilate right!  We do not have a “culture” of good ventilation in Australia and we could be headed towards mouldier buildings if good ventilation is not understood.

Common Sources of Moisture

1. External Moisture: Storms, floods, or leaking roofs can lead to water penetration.
2. Internal Moisture: Daily household activities can increase indoor humidity, especially in poorly ventilated spaces. Unflued gas heaters, cooking, and drying clothes indoors are significant contributors.
3. Construction-Related Moisture: New buildings, especially those with concrete, can retain moisture for up to two years after construction, leading to elevated humidity levels indoors.

Identifying and Assessing Mould

Mould can often go unnoticed, growing within wall cavities, subfloors, or HVAC systems. Visual inspections, moisture mapping, and air sampling are essential in identifying hidden mould and determining the extent of contamination. At Climasure, we use advanced tools and assessment methods to locate moisture sources and measure mould levels accurately. For complex cases, we recommend surface and air quality sampling to understand the scale of the issue.

How to Prevent Mould

Preventing mould starts with controlling moisture. Here are some strategies:

• Improve Ventilation: Use exhaust fans in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms, and ensure these areas have adequate ventilation.  The exhaust fans in air tight buildings do not work as well as there is not as much air to draw into the fan, so if you intend for your house to have better air tightness than standard, ensuring you have a powerful exhaust fan in your bathrooms is very important.
• Control Indoor Humidity: Maintain indoor humidity below 60%. Using dehumidifiers in damp areas can help.  You can monitor your indoor relative humidity using inexpensive monitors such as the  TP-Link Tapo Smart Temperature Humidity Monitor E-ink Display.
• Address Leaks Promptly: Repair any leaks in plumbing, roofs, or walls immediately to prevent prolonged moisture exposure.
• Good Drainage: Direct water away from the foundation with clear gutters, well-placed downpipes, and grading that slopes away from the building to prevent pooling and water damage.
• Opt for Quality Building Practices: Ensure your property has proper waterproofing, especially in wet areas. Using vapour-permeable wall and roof construction, good ventilation and adequate, well installed insulation can reduce condensation.
• Excellent waterproofing in wet areas: Investing in higher-quality waterproof membranes for wet areas can extend the life of your building and prevent moisture build-up.

The Importance of Professional Mould Testing

While some mould issues are visible, many are hidden within walls or other structures. In 2025, Climasure will be offering professional mould testing services to identify and address these problems effectively. Stay tuned for more information on this service.

Mould prevention and removal aren’t just about aesthetics; they are about maintaining a healthy living space and preserving the integrity of your home or building.  If you suspect a mould issue, or simply want to prevent one, get in touch with us today.