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Mould and damp in living spaces

General

Mould is a natural part of our environment. It helps break down organic matter in nature, for example in forest soil or potting soil. Mould spreads through spores that enter our homes via the air, clothing or potting soil, for example. Mould only becomes a problem when these spores multiply in the home.

Mould can grow anywhere where there is moisture. A humidity level of 70 to 80% is usually sufficient for mould to develop. Moisture can be caused by condensation or structural damage. To prevent mould, you must avoid excessive humidity in your home.

Health implications
Mould spores can be hazardous to health if inhaled in large quantities. They can cause respiratory problems and allergic reactions. People with respiratory diseases such as asthma or a weakened immune system are particularly at risk. It is very difficult, if not impossible, to prove a direct link between mould exposure and health problems. If you experience any health problems, you should consult a doctor.

Removing and renovating mould
Mould in indoor areas must always be removed. It is important to eliminate the cause of the moisture that caused the mould.

Save energy and prevent mould

Here are a few tips on how you can prevent mould and save energy at the same time:

  • Heat regularly: Keep all rooms at around 19 degrees Celsius. It is better to heat evenly than to heat some rooms heavily and others not at all.
  • Ventilate regularly: Open windows and doors wide so that moist air can escape quickly. Cross ventilation with windows opposite each other is particularly effective. This keeps the heat in the walls. It is particularly important to ventilate bathrooms after showering and kitchens after cooking.
  • Check the humidity in the room: You can monitor the humidity with a thermohygrometer. When it's cold outside, the humidity in older buildings should be below 50% to prevent mould.
  • Dry yourself after showering: Immediately remove splashes from tiles and joints with a squeegee. If necessary, you can also wipe with a cloth.
  • Dry laundry properly: Use the balcony or drying rooms. If this is not possible, dry your laundry in a warm living room rather than in a cold bedroom or bathroom.
  • Position furniture correctly: Keep exterior walls and, above all, exterior corners clear and leave at least 10 cm between furniture and walls. Avoid hanging curtains or pictures directly on exterior walls to prevent mould.

Basements and cellars

Special care should be taken in basement and cellar rooms, especially in summer!

Only ventilate these rooms when the outside temperature is lower than the room temperature, preferably at night or early in the morning. Warm outside air can cause condensation in cool basement rooms, which can lead to mould.