Winter Waterproofing
December 13, 2023Wet Walls, Mold, and Peeling Plaster – What to Do?
From this article, you’ll learn:
Rapid temperature changes during winter, leading to thaws, have a significant impact on groundwater levels. This phenomenon contributes to increased moisture levels, the effects of which directly affect our homes and apartments. Moisture penetrates buildings through leaks in roofs, foundations, and basements, damaging the structure and creating ideal conditions for mold growth. This article takes a closer look at the problem of moisture in residential spaces and its consequences, particularly in the context of mold appearing on walls. We will explore the factors contributing to this issue and learn how to effectively address moisture problems in our homes.
Moisture and Mold on Walls
Moisture and mold in a home not only compromise the aesthetic appeal of walls and often produce unpleasant odors but also pose a threat to the health of its occupants. The characteristic stains typically appear in corners, near windows, and behind furniture, though they can sometimes hide beneath layers of wallpaper. Anyone who has ever dealt with mold or mildew knows how persistent and challenging this issue can be, with a tendency to return repeatedly. The best approach is to focus on preventing such problems right from the construction phase.
Where Does Moisture and Mold on Walls Come From?
The appearance of mold stains is a result of excessive humidity or moisture within the building structure, often caused by inadequate ventilation. Dampness issues are most common during the winter months when the temperature difference between the interior and exterior is particularly significant. After the winter season, it is advisable to thoroughly inspect walls, especially those behind furniture, particularly if mold has been an issue in the past.
Unfortunately, this problem is increasingly encountered in newly constructed buildings. Rapid construction timelines often do not allow sufficient time for proper drying. Additionally, improper thermal insulation of external walls and the ceiling on the top floor frequently proves inadequate. Insufficient thermal insulation leads to condensation of water vapor on so-called "cold walls," while construction errors in thermal insulation contribute to the formation of thermal bridges—areas poorly insulated against cold and moisture. These thermal bridges typically occur around windows, doors, and at the junctions of walls and ceilings.
Another source of moisture in buildings can be leaking pipes within walls, which may result in water seepage. Dampness can also arise from capillary water rising from the ground, especially when foundation or basement walls lack adequate waterproofing. Preventative measures during the construction phase are therefore crucial to minimizing the risk of these adverse phenomena.
How to Get Rid of Mold on Walls?
When dealing with mold in your home, simply removing the visible stains and cleaning the walls is only the first step. The key is to identify the root causes of mold growth to effectively prevent its recurrence. Excessive humidity in a room is often due to infrequent ventilation and inefficient airflow. If windows are too airtight, consider installing air vents or replacing the windows with models equipped with micro-ventilation. Additionally, using a dehumidifier with replaceable cartridges can be an effective solution.
For more severe problems, however, renovations may be necessary. Removing mold requires not only physically eliminating the visible growth but also addressing the affected plaster. Due to the rapid spread of mold spores, it is recommended to remove plaster from an area larger than the visible infestation. This helps reduce the risk of reoccurrence. After cleaning the surface, treat it with a specialized fungicidal solution. For the renewed plaster, it is advisable to use a paint with antibacterial or hydrophobic properties, which minimizes moisture absorption and prevents mold regrowth.
How to Prevent Recurring Wall Efflorescence?
A damp wall, mold stains, or peeling plaster are merely symptoms of more serious underlying issues. The most effective way to combat mold on walls is to address both the visible signs and the root causes of moisture. Otherwise, the problem will inevitably return.
The process of removing mold typically involves both mechanical and chemical methods. Mechanically, the layer of mold, including its mycelium, is removed. Chemically, the surface is treated with specialized antifungal and mold-preventive agents. It is essential to strictly follow the manufacturer's instructions for these products. However, this is just the first step in the process.
After mold removal, the prepared wall surface must be properly protected and finished in accordance with construction best practices.
It is important to note that structural issues, improperly executed thermal insulation, or inadequate waterproofing are problems that will continue to cause damage over time. Addressing the symptoms rather than the source will be a futile effort. Water migrates, and often, after one issue is resolved, the effects of moisture appear elsewhere. This is why the problem cannot be ignored.
Determining the root cause on your own can be difficult. In such cases, it is best to consult an expert who can identify the source of the issue and recommend the most effective solutions.[/vc_hoverbox]
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Selection of Technology and Materials – An Online or On-Site Consultation at SANIER (Recommended)
During this consultation, you will gain insights into:
- Vertical, horizontal, external, internal, and moisture-proof insulation, as well as restoration of insulation.
- Building renovations.
- Sealing cracks and fissures in ceilings, along with slope re-profiling.
- Repairs of structures, basements, balconies, loggias, terraces, and floors.
- Finishing of terraces and balconies.
- Building extensions and reconstructions.
Advisory Service for Selecting Technology and Materials Includes:
- Technical instructions for performing waterproofing.
- A detailed list of materials along with pricing.
- Technical product data sheets with usage instructions.
A consultation session, conducted either online or at the SANIER headquarters (recommended), will provide you with the following insights:
Why Waterproofing Is Essential for a Dry, Mold-Free Home
- Which waterproofing solutions are best for your home
- How to properly implement waterproofing technologies
- Key information about essential materials for waterproofing, injections, and renovations.
- Hands-on guidance on materials and application
- Answers to your pressing questions
- Step-by-step planning of necessary works to ensure your home is permanently and effectively protected from water damage.
Products for Waterproofing and Renovation
Mineral Slurries:
PCI Barraseal CS
BOSTIK BLOCK X701 TERRA 2k FLEX (K11 Flex Schlamme Grau)
Koester NB Elastik
PCI Barraseal Flex
Schomburg Aquafin 2K/M
Renovation Plasters:
