Dealing with internal moisture
Perversely, the draught-free, airtight homes of today might be harbouring plenty of internal moisture. Well designed ventilation is needed to manage this moisture and avoid the perils of mould and health issues.
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Perversely, the draught-free, airtight homes of today might be harbouring plenty of internal moisture. Well designed ventilation is needed to manage this moisture and avoid the perils of mould and health issues.
Ventilation systems in New Zealand homes rarely have their airflows measured and adjusted during installation, resulting in poorly ventilated rooms. Using active flow hoods during commissioning could change this.
Sufficient ventilation is crucial as our homes become more airtight. A mix of passive and mechanical options can work well, but all designs should start by getting the source extraction measures right.
BRANZ physicists have developed a useful calculation for designers to work out the minimum number and area of vents required in roof spaces.
Twenty years ago, roofs didn’t need to be specifically ventilated. Today, things are different. That’s because 21st century homes are more airtight, and if they aren’t aired, condensation may form.
Early results from the latest House Condition Survey indicate the continued presence of mould in over half the properties. This is bad news, as evidence links mould and damp houses with poor health and social wellbeing.
A current BRANZ Building Research Levy project looking at airtightness trends of our houses needs your help.
By following some easy to implement practices, occupants in a new centrally heated home were able to reduce high levels of internal moisture and enjoy a comfortable indoor environment.
Just what do Kiwis do to keep their homes free from stuffy air? BRANZ is using science to find the answers and aid in the design of better ventilation systems.
Some roof designs, such as skillion roofs, must include ventilation to manage roof moisture. Recent BRANZ research provides advice on the best place for effective vent openings in low wind zones.