Abstract: | Mould growth in homes is one of Britain's biggest housing problems which is becoming even more widespread. Such growth is not only unsightly, smelly and presents a potential health hazard but leads to deterioration of the building fabric. Mould spore concentrations both indoors and outdoors are reviewed and the environmental conditions needed for germination are given. The critical factor to prevent mould is maintenance of a low relative humidity. This can be achieved by either lowering the moisture content or raising the temperature. Moisture removal at source, background heating, and heat pump dehumidifiers are recommended. |