moisture

Subjects covered include: problems of radon, formaldehyde build-up in the home, residential indoor air quality, effect of moisture on other pollutants, epidemiology of indoor air problems, setting standards for recognising harmful concentrations in homes, the effect of retrofit conversion measures, thepublic's perspective.

This report gives a summary of research and its results at the Department of Building Science, Lund Institute of Technology, Sweden. Fields of research are: design and performance of low energy new buildings, energy conservation in existing buildings, utilisation of solar heat, climatic control, climatic control in foreign climates, especially desert climates, and moisture research.

Dampness on the inside surfaces of dwellings is a frequent source of complaint. It may be due to rising damp, rain penetration or a plumbing defect; or it may be due to condensation. Condensation and mould growth are widespread problems in all housing sectors but especially so in tenanted accommodation. In many cases it may be difficult to identify the underlying cause; this can often be complicated by social issues. Mild cases will often yield to simple changes in the heating and ventilation regime in the dwelling or to cosmetic treatments of redecoration, perhaps with fungicidal paint.

Investing in insulation is a good way to reduce energy consumption in the home. The homeowner must determine where adding insulation will be most cost effective. Attics are usually the place to start, followed by floors and walls. Since there is a wide variety of material on the market, thedo-it-yourselfer must choose carefully and install them with proper regard for ventilation and vapour barriers. Even if the work is performed by a contractor, the informed homeowner will benefit by his knowledge of materials and procedures.

Presents the major findings from two studies of moisture problems in crawl spaces. Three mechanisms play a role: transport by air via the floor, moisture migration through the floor and cold bridges. Special attention was paid tomoisture transport by air as it is an important cause of moisture problems. Some conclusions are drawn.

Describes factors affecting condensation: moisture production, ventilation, heating, insulation, and absorbancy.

Discusses problems of condensation in cavity roofs of industrial buildings, including ventilation air as a moisture source. Lists points to watch when foam filling the cavity.

This booklet for consumers discusses what indoor air pollution is and how it can affect health. Ways of reducing pollutant levels are summarised

The Heat Protection Ordinance (Warmeschutzverordnung EnEG) issued in 1977 aimed to reduce heating energy consumption and has become part of the building ordinances. Beside the heat transmission resistance (k-value-a measure for the size of the heat transmission losses), also the crack flow exponent (a-value) has been controlled to reduce ventilating heat losses. Practical experience has shown that, without mechanical ventilation, hygienic, physiological and building physical disadvantages will turn up.

Summarises risk by building type and the various physical processes involved in moisture transfer and condensation.