Altering the insulation and air tightness in a heritage building may cause problems if done incorrectly, leading to moisture accumulation inside wood frame assemblies and potential for mould and rot. Follow recommended guidelines for ventilation and moisture management.

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MOULD:
What causes mould?

Mould may grow when there is moisture present on surfaces and in cavities - carpet, drywall, wood, food, dust accumulation or furniture. The fungus that we call 'mould' travels through the air in tiny spores and thrives in moist conditions where there is dust materials.

What does mould look like?

Depending on the type of mould and the surface material it grows on, mould can be black, green, white, orange and other colours. Mould can look like fine webs, stains, slime or fuzzy build up. You may also be able to smell mould by its musty odour.

How is mould removed?

Removing mould may be done in a number of ways, depending on how extensive it is. In the most severe cases, materials may need to be removed completely and disposed of. Consult with experts on mould remediation.

Proper procedures for removing and preventing mould are outlined in this document from HEALTH CANADA: Addressing Moisture & Mould Growth in Your Home: mould-home-maison-moisissure-eng.pdf 412 KB

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ROT

Building materials that are constantly exposed to moisture, especially wood products, may deteriorate to the point of rotting. This condition may affect the structural integrity of a building.

What does rot look like?

Rotting materials may show signs of staining or mold, or may be spongy or flaking apart.

What should be done with rotting materials?

NOTE: It is VERY important to consult with an experienced professional before dealing with rotted materials - they could pose a serious hazard if a structure is failing.

In dealing with rot:

• The root cause of the moisture accumulation must be determined and fixed properly.
• All of the bad material must be removed.
• The area must be completely dried before replacement parts are installed.