Mold growth on walls
For small-scale infestations (less than half a square meter):
- For the first superficial removal, wipe the mold with 70 to 80 percent alcohol or denatured alcohol. Both are available in pharmacies, for example. Vinegar is not suitable for removing mold growth. Chemical fungicides are not recommended as they pollute the air we breathe.
- Wear a dust mask when removing the mold. People with mold allergies, chronic respiratory diseases or immunodeficiency should not take action themselves.
- Finally, wipe off the affected area of the apartment with a damp cloth, as parts of mold collect in house dust.
In the event of a large-scale infestation (more than half a square meter), the cause should be clarified and a lasting clean-up carried out by a specialist company.
Usually, the mold is removed chemically or mechanically in the area of the damaged area and the infested layers of plaster are scraped off. The surface is then recreated using filler and modified paint.
Thermal insulation, moisture protection, comfort – building physics laboratory
The thermal properties of building materials and building products are determined in the test benches of the building physics laboratory. In addition, simulation programs are used to calculate and optimize constructions or to create energy certificates. The employees of the thermal insulation department also carry out assessments and tests on thermal and moisture-related issues in buildings.
In addition, the laboratory offers tests to determine the level of comfort in buildings:
- Indoor climate measurements (humidity and temperature)
- surface temperature measurement
- Determination of thermal bridges using infrared thermography
Energy certificates
The energy certificate is used to assess the thermal quality of a building. On the basis of planning documents (floor plans with architectural lights, views and sections), the large volume is first determined to determine the thermal envelope.
Other relevant thermal insulation factors relating to wall and ceiling constructions and windows are included in the calculation of the energy certificate. Building services systems such as heating and cooling systems, water heating, ventilation systems and any solar and photovoltaic systems are also taken into account. The result shows the total energy demand of the building and is represented graphically by the energy efficiency scale.
Examination and clarification of the cause of mold in the apartment
The listed building physical examination methods for determining the cause of mold infestation in the apartment are written below. However, you can also hire the professional services here on mold inspection Huntington Beach.
On-site damage assessment
The on-site damage assessment includes an inventory of the building, the apartment and its surroundings. The mold damage is recorded and information from the tenants about ventilation processes, damage history or the typical temperature control of individual rooms is logged in order to be able to recommend the appropriate investigation methods.
Indoor climate measurements
Electronic measuring devices that are placed in the apartment are used to record the indoor climate conditions in the apartment over a longer period of time – usually 2 weeks. Measured values are the relative room air humidity and the room air temperature. The measured climate values can be used to read, for example, ventilation, cooking or laundry drying processes as well as the general temperature and humidity level in the apartment.
Surface temperature measurements
Surface temperatures are measured contact-free with the infrared thermometer.
Infrared thermography
The non-destructive infrared thermography method can be used to visualize temperature differences on component surfaces. This makes it possible to detect thermal bridges in the building shell as well as in component connections (windows, base areas, jamb walls).
Blower door test
The airtightness of the building shell can be determined with the blower door test. With this method, a fan door (blower door) is inserted airtight in a door frame. After sealing off other entrances and joints, a pressure difference is created between the interior and exterior. The volume flow generated wanders through joints, holes and other leaks that can be detected in this way. A combination with infrared thermography to show these air leaks is possible.
Moisture determination of substances and components
In order to be able to carry out targeted drainage, a building analysis and the development of a corresponding renovation concept are essential. Usually the following procedure is followed:
- sampling
- Determination of moisture parameters
- moisture content
- Maximum water absorption
- Hygroscopic moisture balance
- degree of moisture penetration
- Hygroscopic degree of moisture penetration
- salt determination
- renovation concept
Sampling is done with an electric drill using two 20-millimeter diameter drill bits. To determine the moisture parameters, brick samples are priced out of the masonry. Drilling dust samples from the near-surface area are used to determine the salts that are harmful to construction.