Effective Mould Prevention in New Construction

Thanks to our relatively damp climate and humid conditions, New Zealand homes can be notoriously mouldy.

However, mould prevention begins with construction, and good planning in this stage can help to ensure homeowners don’t have to battle with mould removal for years to come.

Here are some of the best ways to prevent mould in the construction stages.

Ventilation

Good ventilation in a home is one of the key factors in mould prevention. Good air flow will minimise the accumulation of moisture within the home, which is the culprit behind mould growth. 

Therefore, any new build should have adequate ventilation as part of the plans. That means windows in kitchens and bathrooms (high moisture areas), as well as in-built ventilation and fans where possible. 

When the home is finished, the homeowner will need to put these features to good use by opening those windows and running the ventilation systems to keep the home dry and mould-free.

Heating 

The other major factor in mould prevention is good heating. A warm space avoids condensation on windows, walls, and other surfaces. 

Again, avoiding condensation and other moisture accumulation is vital for preventing mould in the home.

Mould-resistant materials 

Some materials are more mould-resistant than others, so it’s a good idea to use them in high-moisture areas of the home. 

For example, mould-resistant paint is a must in kitchens and bathrooms. You can also opt for mould-resistant drywall in these areas, which is made without using the traditional paper facing.

Water sensors

While not technically part of the construction itself, water sensors can be a great tool for mould prevention in the home. 

These small boxes can be placed around the property, in areas such as next to the hot water cylinder, under the dishwasher, under sinks, and behind the washing machines. These boxes can be linked to your smartphone and will sound an alarm if water is spilled on them. 

If you set them up in a brand new home, you can sleep a little easier knowing that if there is a water leak somewhere less obvious, you might notice it immediately rather than weeks or months down the road when it has already caused mould or other damage.

Mould removal in Wellington and surrounds

While prevention is always better than a cure, the right cure is always the best option.

If your home already has mould, or if the mould has gotten out of hand, a professional mould removal service will get rid of the existing mould and help to prevent future flare ups. If mould isn’t completely removed and the area properly disinfected, the remaining spores can lead to further growth in future.

PRO Environmental Services offers expert mould removal across greater Wellington, Porirua, Kapiti, and other areas. On top of our professional mould removal service, we will work to identify the source of the mould, so you can take steps to prevent new growth in future as well.

Contact us for a chat about mould removal or a free quote for expert mould removal in your home, so you can breathe a little easier literally and figuratively!