Condensation Causes Mould: Understanding the Impact on Metal Roofs

Condensation Causes Mould

In this post, we’ll be exploring how condensation causes mould.

Condensation is a common phenomenon that occurs when moist air comes into contact with a cold surface, leading to the formation of water droplets. 

While condensation can affect various surfaces, metal roofs, particularly those with a low angle, present unique challenges. In this blog post, we will explore the impact of condensation on metal roofs, focusing on its potential to cause mould growth and its implications for health. 

By understanding this relationship, homeowners and builders can take proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with condensation.

The Nature of Metal Roofs

Metal roofs have gained popularity due to their durability, longevity, and aesthetic appeal – they’re also relatively low cost, and are quicker and easier to install than more traditional roofing materials, such as tiles. 

However, they also possess certain characteristics that make them susceptible to condensation-related issues – namely that metal is a good thermal conductor – meaning it can cool and heat up relatively quickly. What happens then, is that metal roofs are often close to the outdoor temperature and thus can be very different to the temperature within a roof space or attic.

Metal roofs are typically installed with an angle of less than 22 degrees, which poses challenges when it comes to managing water runoff (Australian Building Codes Board, 2021), we’ll come back to this.

Condensation Drips and the Risk of Mould Growth

In traditional roofing systems with steeper angles, rainwater efficiently runs off the surface, minimising the chances of water accumulation and subsequent condensation-related problems. 

However, when the angle of a metal roof is less than 22 degrees, condensation cannot run off it, which results in it dripping.

As I always say, mould is a moisture issue.

Mould spores are everywhere and are waiting for the right level of moisture to become active. Metal roofs with condensation issues can provide an ideal environment for mould. 

The growth of mould on a roof's underside not only compromises its structural integrity but also poses serious health risks to occupants (National Construction Code, 2021).

I want to illustrate this for you with some photos I took of the underside of a metal roof that covered a deck.

Condensation Causes Mould examples - Eco Health Solutions

These photos were taken mid morning after a cold night. You can see the condensation lined up along the valleys of the metal roof (left). As well, you can see the moisture on the table beneath (right).

Health Implications of Mould Growth

Mould growth can have significant implications for human health. Exposure to mould spores, particularly indoors, can cause a range of health problems, including allergies, respiratory issues, and even infections. Individuals with existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma, are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of mould exposure (Wang et al, 2023; ABCB, 2019).

There is a growing body of research that highlights the detrimental effects of mould on respiratory health, emphasising the importance of preventing mould growth in buildings to safeguard occupants' wellbeing.

Mould, including the strains commonly found in damp and poorly ventilated areas, thrives in the presence of moisture. Metal roofs are condensation risks, and without enough slope, this can drip onto insulation or the plasterboards of the ceiling, and result in “hidden mould”, and thus can be playing a role in health issues, even when there is no visible mould.

Understanding the Causes of Condensation

To effectively address condensation-related issues on metal roofs, it is crucial to understand the underlying causes. 

While the slope of the roof is an incredibly important factor, there are other important considerations. These are high humidity levels within the building, inadequate ventilation, and temperature differentials between the interior and exterior environments. Identifying these causes allows homeowners and builders to implement appropriate measures to control condensation and mitigate its impact (ABCB, 2019).

Mitigating Condensation Issues on Metal Roofs

To combat condensation problems and prevent mould growth on metal roofs, several strategies can be employed:

Improving Ventilation 

Adequate ventilation is essential to expel excess moisture and maintain a balanced humidity level. Proper airflow helps in reducing the likelihood of condensation formation (Australian Building Codes Board, 2021; New Zealand Building Performance, n.d.). Some simple steps include venting extractor fans to the exterior of the building (not into the roof space), installing whirlybirds, depending on the climate, opening the roof space up to allow air circulation (e.g. having metal mesh soffits).

Insulating the Roof

Insulation acts as a thermal barrier, minimising temperature differentials between the interior and exterior surfaces of the roof. This helps reduce the occurrence of condensation by preventing warm, moist air from coming into contact with the cold metal surface (Australian Building Codes Board, 2021; New Zealand Building Performance, n.d.). Care also needs to be taken to ensure that the insulation does not block the condensation runoff, and also that it isn’t directly beneath the metal roof.

Installing Vapour Barriers

Vapour barriers are effective in preventing moisture from permeating into the roof structure. By creating a barrier, they minimise the chances of condensation formation (Australian Building Codes Board, 2021; New Zealand Building Performance, n.d.). What they do is allow water vapour to escape from within the building envelope.

Compliance with Building Codes and Standards

To ensure the safety and quality of construction, it is crucial to adhere to relevant building codes and standards. In the case of metal roofs and condensation management, the Australian Building Codes Board and National Construction Code provide guidelines and regulations to mitigate the risks associated with condensation and mould growth (Australian Building Codes Board, 2021; National Construction Code, 2021).

In New Zealand, where “leaky buildings” have been a significant issue, the New Zealand Building Performance provides valuable resources and information on weathertightness and managing condensation to address these concerns (New Zealand Building Performance, n.d.).

While Condensation Causes Mould it Can Be Mitigated

Condensation on metal roofs, especially those with angles less than 22 degrees, can lead to the formation of condensation drips, increasing the risk of mould growth. This can have detrimental effects on both the structural integrity of the roof and the health of the occupants. Mould exposure can result in allergies, respiratory issues, and infections, particularly for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions.

Understanding the causes of condensation, such as high humidity levels and inadequate ventilation, is crucial in developing effective strategies for mitigating condensation-related problems. Improving ventilation, insulating the roof, and installing vapour barriers are practical measures to control condensation and prevent mould growth.

Compliance with building codes and standards ensures that construction practices align with recommended guidelines for condensation management. By implementing these strategies and following regulatory requirements, homeowners and builders can create healthier living environments and prolong the lifespan of metal roofs.

Taking proactive steps to address condensation issues on metal roofs is essential for safeguarding the integrity of the structure and the well-being of those who reside within. By prioritising proper ventilation, insulation, and moisture control, homeowners and builders can minimise the risks associated with condensation and create a safer, mould-free living environment.

 

References:

Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB). (2019). Condensation in Buildings. Building Science Series. Retrieved from https://www.abcb.gov.au/sites/default/files/resources/2022/Handbook-condensation-in-buildings-2019.pdf 

Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB). (2021). National Construction Code – Volume One. Retrieved from https://ncc.abcb.gov.au/editions/ncc-2022/adopted/volume-one/preface/introduction-national-construction-code-ncc

BRANZ. (2021). Build Magazine: Moisture Management. 

National Construction Code. (2021). Building Code of Australia. Retrieved from https://ncc.abcb.gov.au/editions-national-construction-code 

New Zealand Building Performance. (n.d.). Weathertightness. Retrieved from https://www.building.govt.nz/building-code-compliance/e-moisture/e2-external-moisture/an-introduction-to-weathertightness-design-principles/ 

Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. (2021). Building Code Compliance Document H1 Energy Efficiency. Retrieved from https://www.building.govt.nz/building-code-compliance/h-energy-efficiency/h1-energy-efficiency/ 

Wang, J. et al (2023). Effects of mold, water damage and window pane condensation on adult rhinitis and asthma partly mediated by different odors. Building and Environment, 2023. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1016/j.buildenv.2022.109814 

Autumn Healthy Home Threats

Autumn Healthy Home Threats… What’s happening in your home?

Autumn is a beautifully colourful time of the year. Greens become yellowed with red and fade to orange and brown. Once fallen, there’s that lovely crunch to them as you walk. 

I remember when my first dog was a puppy and he walked on the dry autumn leaves for the first time. He was startled, then curious, and finally amused… it was then fun for him to walk through the crunchy crackly leaves… I digress.

In terms of our homes, there are healthy home threats that are closely matched with this one.

What is meant by a “healthy home threat”?

A healthy home threat is anything that hinders our efforts to establish a healthy home. These threats come in various forms, ranging from allergens and increased humidity to leaks, fresh paint, and modern technology. 

It’s important to understand these threats, and be vigilant in keeping our homes healthy, and today, we’ll explore the healthy home threats associated with autumn.

What is Unique about Autumn?

Autumn days are varied, and tend to be crisp and often clear, the days shorter and we tend to start wearing layers to accommodate the changes through the day.

As Autumn gains momentum, we tend to:

  • Start spending more time indoors
  • Squeeze in any final “hurrahs” from summer – like trips to the beach on the last of the hot days
  • Alternate between using cooling and heating as we transition between the seasons
  • Use artificial lights earlier in the evenings as it gets dark earlier
  • Prepare for winter – as do other critters
  • Let’s find out how these changes can become Autumn healthy home threats.

HVACs and Indoor Air Quality

“HVAC” stands for “heating, ventilation and air conditioning”.

It is absolutely essential that they are serviced regularly by professionals (check the manual as to the manufacturer’s recommendations). 

And equally important is the regular cleaning that you do.

Every week (all year), you should be vacuuming the filters for any HVAC units that you use – heating, cooling, air purifiers, dehumidifiers. The fins and all accessible areas should also be cleaned weekly with a moist microfibre cloth.

Too often, I’ve seen them absolutely caked with dust – and dust can harbour dust mites, allergens, mould spores and more.

Infrequent cleaning and servicing can mean that your HVACs could be spreading these contaminants around. 

SOLUTIONS

Here are some steps you can take to protect the indoor air quality of your home.

  • Have all of your HVACs serviced in autumn
  • Make sure you’re regularly cleaning the filters, fins and accessible parts – including ducts
  • Replace pre-filters on return air grilles
gas appliances HVAC autumn healthy home threats - Eco Health Solutions

Gas Appliances

Gas appliances are often not used throughout the summer months. Conversely, in winter, they tend to be heavily used.

Devastatingly, gas appliances can result in deadly gases being released into our homes if they leak, are improperly flued or the gases aren’t combusting properly.

I’ve had quite a few reports from people about intense fatigue and grogginess when using their gas heaters wanting me to come out to assess their homes. This is not something I need to assess – this is when you call in a licensed gas plumber as it is a potentially deadly situation. In every case, I’ve had the person contact me afterwards thanking me for identifying the problem.

Gas appliances include the oven, hot water system as well as heating units.

SOLUTIONS

  • Have all gas appliances serviced by a licensed gas plumber
  • Attend to any leaks
  • Maintain ventilation of your home, by opening windows and doors to exchange the air

    Artificial Lighting

    As the days become shorter, we use artificial lights earlier and earlier. 

    Natural lighting fluctuates throughout the day, with varying levels of blue and red light.

    Artificial lighting often doesn’t. 

    The result of this can be that it can cause problems with sleep.

    Now is a great time to invest in some lighting that will work for you – lighting your home and supporting your sleep (which is essential to health and wellbeing).

    Of the many products available on the market, the brand I like best is BlueLightBlockers.* Use coupon code bb88 to save 10% off their range.

    SOLUTIONS

        * These are affiliate links – if you don’t want to use them, just click here instead. I recommend them because they are excellent products and really are blue-light-free, and have therefore negotiated a discount for my community. (Not the other way around!)

        Condensation

        As the temperatures shift, the location of where condensation can form will also alter… 

        Where there’s condensation, there’s moisture. And, I’m sure you’ve heard me say: mould is a moisture issue.

        There are some simple steps that you can take to reduce the condensation risks. 

        SOLUTIONS

        • When heating or cooling your home be sure to do this for your entire home – keeping internal doors open will help to even out the temperature throughout your home.
        • To allow the air to circulate to maintain more even temperatures, keep furniture at least 10cm away from exterior walls.
        • Be on the ready for condensation and have a dry microfibre cloth ready to wipe it off. A flat microfibre mop is ideal if you notice it high up (like on the ceiling or high windows).
        rodents uninvited guests autumn healthy home threats - Eco Health Solutions

        Rodents and Other Uninvited Guests

        This is the time of year when critters prepare for winter – when traditionally food was not so readily available. 

        For this reason, you may notice an increase in activity as evidenced by droppings, holes in food packets and other strange occurrences.

        Not only are they looking for food, they are also looking for nesting materials (and even locations) – and we don’t want them setting up in our homes!

        Rodents are pretty clever and extremely nimble. Mice can fit through tiny holes (even as small as 1 cm) and they are also able to scale vertical surfaces up to about 90 cm!

        While it’s tempting to put poison out to kill them – especially when they “go away to die,” I strongly discourage you from doing this. These poisons are “second generation anticoagulant rodenticides” (SGARs) and cause whatever eats them to slowly die by bleeding to death. Decades ago, one of my dogs got into some and we very nearly lost him (he wasn’t even 2 years old)… SGARs are slow acting, so the poisoned animals go about normal activities – and if caught and eaten by a pet or wildlife, that animal will be poisoned, too.

        SOLUTIONS

        • Ensure that all of your food items are stored in glass or metal containers – this includes pet foods. What can’t be stored in these containers needs to go in the fridge or a well sealed cupboard.
        • Make sure you fill in any holes so that there are no easy entry points – in cupboards as well as around your home.
        • Avoid poisons – opt for traps instead. If you must use poison, BirdLife Australia have a list of safer options here.

            Autumn Healthy Home Threats… now under control!

            Now that we’ve addressed our HVACs, gas appliances, artificial lighting, condensation risks, and uninvited guests, we’ve got Autumn Healthy Home Threats sorted!

            If you’d like any help with this – then you can book a call with me, I’d be more than happy to help solve your healthy home issues.

            Summer Healthy Home Threats

            Summer Healthy Home Threats… in Every Home

            Summer – the earth is warm, the flowers are in bloom, there are trips to the beach, celebrations, longer school holidays… 

            If the songs are anything to go by, summer is the time when the sweetest memories are created.

            And yet, like with every other season, there are summer healthy home threats.

            What is a “healthy home threat”?

            I like to define a healthy home threat as anything that interferes with, or poses a risk to, the good work we’re doing to create and maintain a healthy home. 

            It could be pollen, an allergen, a rise in relative humidity, a leak, new paint, new taps, a new technology – there are so many possibilities.

            What are the Unique Challenges Which Summer Brings?

            The days are long and hot, with the sun rising early and setting late (often close to 8.30pm here in Melbourne). 

            There are a great many celebrations – religious, end of year, solstice, and more.

            In Sumer, we often:

            • Spend much of our days outdoors
            • Open our windows in the cool of the morning or as the change comes through
            • In more tropical environments, it’s hot, humid and wet
            • Crank the air conditioning
            • Eat lots of summer fruits (stone fruits and berries)
            • Gather for various parties and celebrations

            Let’s now explore how these changes in our behaviour are linked to Summer Healthy Home Threats.

            summer-healthy-home-threats-eco-health-solutions-1

            Increased Use of Fragrances

            The increase in temperature, with or without high levels of humidity, tends to result in most of us perspiring (sweating) more than in the cooler seasons.

            As a result, a lot of people put on more antiperspirant or use even more fragrances than usual in an attempt to mask any body odours.

            SOLUTIONS

            1. Wash more often – consider carrying a wet washer in a press-seal bag that you can wipe sweat off with
            2. Activated charcoal soap & deodorants
            3. Consider natural deodorants – some of my clients have used bicarbonate of soda, other swear by cider vinegar, personally, I prefer to mix up essential oils in a bottle of rose water and spray that on every few hours (essential oils evaporate quickly)

            Reduced Indoor Air Quality

            Closing the windows to keep the heat out and the cool in can cause indoor air pollutants to build up, which is never ideal.

            This is made worse when bringing new items into the home – which are often still off-gassing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and potentially also formaldehyde.

            Adding another layer to this is the increased temperatures speeding up the release of VOCs, which can readily form by-products in the air.

            The great thing about this problem is that the solutions are simple!

            SOLUTIONS

            1. Ventilate your home. Open doors and windows at least 3 times a day (the ideal would be every hour) to exchange the air in your home.
            2. When you’ve got the windows closed, ensure your air purifier is going.
            3. Avoid using “air fresheners” and other scented products.
            summer-healthy-home-threats-eco-health-solutions

            Moisture in the Interstitial Spaces

            Condensation forms where there are variations in temperatures. What we see with the use of air conditioning, is condensation forming on the other side of plasterboards, outside of windows and also on the other side of the ceiling.

            These areas are referred to as “interstitial spaces” and can be the site of many cases of “hidden mould.”

            In 2018, I was in far north Queensland to present training on mould and was amazed to see the windows literally streaming with condensation – to the point that it looked like it was raining heavily.

            This is a complex problem, but ultimately it rests heavily on the use of air conditioning – as this is what causes massive temperature variations.

            SOLUTIONS

            1. Explore alternative ways to cool – installing plants along the paths and in front of your windows to naturally cool the air, hanging a wet sheet across the open window or door, wetting your hair, clothes or skin.
            2. Aim to keep the inside temperature closer to the outside temperature – don’t set the cooling for 15oC, instead, set it for 25-30oC.
            3. If you can, keep the windows open a little to help even out the temperature a bit.

            Mould

            Higher levels of relative humidity in tropical and subtropical regions is the number one problem here.

            It’s important to remember that there are mould spores everywhere, waiting for the right conditions. 

            Often all they are waiting for is enough moisture. 

            And high levels of relative humidity can provide this.

            (This is why “mould is a moisture issue” – as I’m sure you’ve heard me say time and again).

            SOLUTIONS

            1. Keep an eye on the levels of relative humidity with a hygrometer, remembering the ideal range is 40-60% RH, with 50% RH being the magic number.
            2. If the relative humidity levels go above this, use a dehumidifier to bring them down to below 60% RH.
            3. Pull furniture from against the walls, so that air can circulate around it, as well as giving you the opportunity to check the walls for mould.
            4. Clean with microfibre cloths.
            5. Add essential oils, such as thyme and oregano to your cleaning water.
            summer-healthy-home-threats-eco-health-solutions

            Mosquitoes & Other Pests

            The combination of higher temperatures and higher levels of rainfall (as we’ve been seeing in Australia) results in more active breeding of mosquitoes, termites, cockroaches and rodents.

            Each of them bring their own risks to either human health and/or the health of our homes.

            While we consider them pests, we need to be considered in how we deal with them.

            My preference is always to deter them, rather than kill them. 

            If you prefer to kill them, then take great care with poisons – especially rodenticides (poison for rodents – rats and mice). Poison can be slow acting, and other animals further up the food chain can also be killed as a result. I’ll be putting a post together on this soon. In the meantime please read more here – as they also include a post about safer poisons.

            SOLUTIONS

            1. Install fly screens over doors and windows; and repair any old ones that are damaged.
            2. Use essential oils to deter them, such as my Bug Repellent.
            3. Read these posts for ways to deter cockroaches, termites and spiders.
            4. Keep your food in sealed containers – I love glass jars for this.
            5. Take your rubbish out daily, and ensure that your bin is closed.
            6. Clear wood out of your garden.
            7. Ensure that your property drains well and that there are no pools of water around.
            8. Keep your garden free food – collect fallen fruit, seal your compost, 
            9. Use a feeder for your chooks to prevent their food attracting rodents.
            10. Encourage native birds that prey on rodents.
            11. Encourage spiders that eat smaller insects.

            Summer Healthy Home Threats… Sorted!

            And, I wanted to share some final tips.

            • Make the most of the cleansing power of the sun – dry your laundry outside; wash bedding (and pillows if recommended by the manufacturer); and take your mattress outside to air. 
            • Take your rugs outside, and put them over a rail or airing rack and turn them over so both sides get the sun shining on them.
            • Spring cleaning is great, but summer cleaning is even better as the sun can really boost your efforts.

            If you’d like any help with this – then you can book a call with me. I’d be more than happy to help solve your healthy home issues.

            Healthy Homes 101 Checklist © Eco Health Solutions

            Just starting your Healthy Home journey?

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            Spring Healthy Home Threats

            Spring Healthy Home Threats… in Every Home

            Although it's my favourite season, Spring healthy home threats can be found in every home.

            I love the palpable buzz of new life and energy. When we’re surrounded by colour as flowers burst open, and there are fledgling birds all around.

            Here in Melbourne, it is considered the most variable of the seasons – I’m sure this is the season that inspired Crowded House’s “Four Seasons in One Day.”

            And, like for every season, there are healthy home threats that are closely matched with this one.

            What is a “healthy home threat”?

            A healthy home threat is anything that interferes with the good work we’re doing to create a healthy home. It could be an allergen, a rise in relative humidity, a leak, new paint, a new technology – there are so many possibilities.

            Which Challenges Does Spring Bring?

            Spring brings with it longer days (with the sun rising earlier and setting later) as well as warmer days. In many areas, the winds pick up. And when I lived in the Blue Mountains, I braced for “thunderstorm season,” as I called it.

            It’s important to understand how the season causes us to change our behaviour, as this can give us clues about what may pose a risk to our great efforts in creating a healthy home.

            As Spring gains momentum, we tend to:

            • Get outside more
            • Open the windows to let the warmth in
            • Continue to use heating (as the days are still cool, and vary a lot)
            • Bring flowers inside
            • Get out into the garden
            • Plant vegetables, herbs and flowers
            • Some of us partake in the traditional “Spring Clean”

            Let’s now explore how these changes can become Spring healthy home threats.

            spring healthy home threats - eco health solutions

            Mould Spores

            Variations in temperature throughout the day, and also from room to room can create opportunities for mould to grow.

            Another change is the increased ventilation as we open up to welcome in the warmth and beautiful Spring air.

            Spring Cleaning results in us pulling furniture out, cleaning, sorting through items that may have been untouched for some time.

            It’s important to remember that mould releases spores when there are any changes to its environment.

            Releasing spores is how mould manages to spread and survive “attacks,” and we need to keep this in mind. 

            SOLUTIONS

            1. Aim to keep temperatures throughout your home as consistent as possible – opening ALL windows and doors can be part of this strategy.
            2. Use air purifiers, particularly when Spring Cleaning. (This one is the bee's knees in terms of powerfully cleaning the air.)
            3. Wear a mask when Spring Cleaning.
            4. Use microfibre cloths when cleaning surfaces.
            5. If you find mould, check this post out for my dos and don’ts.
                  spring healthy home threats - eco health solutions 4

                  Dew Point

                  Building materials having different temperatures can create the possibility of dew point being reached within the building. I know that sounds technical, but bear with me as I translate this.

                  When dew point is reached, moisture in the air can condense on a cool surface – this could be on a wall or ceiling, or within the structure of the building itself. 

                  Obviously then, this creates moisture. And, as I always say, mould is a moisture issue.

                  In my years of assessing homes, I’ve seen some dramatic differences in the temperature of building materials, and have frequently found “hidden mould” in brand new builds.

                  SOLUTIONS

                  1. When heating your home, heat your entire home, and keep indoor doors open to help the temperature stay even throughout.
                  2. Keep furniture at least 10cm away from exterior walls so that the walls maintain a consistent temperature.
                  3. Ensure that your building is insulated properly – that the entire wall, ceiling or floor is insulated, and it has not been installed in a patchy way.
                  4. Keep an eye out for condensation – and dry it off as soon as you see it with a microfibre cloth. If it’s on the ceiling or high window, you can use a flat mop, rather than climbing on a ladder.
                  5. Watch the relative humidity – the more moisture in the air, the greater potential for condensation to form. Hygrometers are ideal for this.
                      spring healthy home threats - eco health solutions (3)

                      Pollen and Microbes

                      Spending time outside can see an increase in exposure to pollen as dormant plants spring into life – which is a huge problem for people with seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever), and also asthmatics.

                      And of course, the increased winds can cause pollen to travel…

                      And because gardening involves stirring up the soil, we can inadvertently be exposed to various microbes in the soil.

                      SOLUTIONS

                      1. Be aware of allergenic pollen in your area, check out this pollen calendar.
                      2. If you have allergies (known or suspected) to pollen, then keep the windows closed, stay indoors, and keep your air purifier nearby.
                      3. Check pollen alerts (you can get local apps for these).
                      4. Keep an eye out for thunderstorm asthma alerts, too (I think mould is part of this picture, not just pollen, but that is yet to be proven).
                      5. When you are out and about (including gardening), wear a mask, and consider protective eyewear.
                      bed healthy home - eco health solutions

                      House Dust Mites

                      With the changing temperatures, we’re often caught out at night – either being too hot or too cold… 

                      This can cause us to perspire (or sweat) a lot overnight – which is just what house dust mites want.

                      House dust mites soak up moisture through their skin, and, a bit like mould, can thrive in moisture environments.

                      SOLUTIONS

                      1. Check the predicted overnight temperature before going to bed, and adjust your bedding accordingly.
                      2. Pull the covers back to air your bed through the day – there’s no need to make it!
                      3. When changing the sheets, vacuum your mattress while it's still warm.
                      4. Wash your bedding often and dry them out in the sun.
                      5. Read this post for extra information on house dust mites.
                      rainbow lorikeets spring - eco health solutions (2)

                      Spring Healthy Home Threats… now under control!

                      There you have it, healthy home threats that are unique to Spring… and most importantly, steps that you can take to protect your health.

                      If you’d like any help with this – then you can book a call with me, I’d be more than happy to help solve your healthy home issues.

                      Spring is the BEST time to create new routines…

                      I've created a course that is for people just like you – keen to understand healthy homes at a deeper level… and to take more action.

                      Having a home assessment is one thing (a good place to start) –

                      Actually having a plan to move forward and maintain your home so that it supports your health is essential.

                      And that what this course is – your step-by-step, easy to implement healthy home action plan. 

                      Maintaining a Healthy Home

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                      Mould Sensitivities: You Are Not Alone

                      by Tim Law

                      Mould sensitivities are more common than most people realise. 

                      If you're a regular here at Eco Health Solutions, it is highly likely that you have mould sensitivities or other environmental sensitivities, know someone who does, or know enough about them to want to prevent them… If you're new, then feel free to peruse this and other posts on environmental sensitivities.

                      I wanted to bring you a different, and more technical, perspective on mould and health – so invited my friend Tim Law, an architectural scientist with a strong interest in this topic to share his insights with you.

                      Grab a cuppa and pen and paper and settle in for this great read.

                      I am an architectural scientist, one who uses the principles of physics, biology and chemistry to understand buildings.

                      On the positive side I try to make buildings perform optimally, and on the flip side I explain why they fail.

                      If you are reading Lucinda's website, you are most likely aware that conventional medicine has a very limited understanding around the health implications of mould in water-damaged buildings.

                      This article is written to help you understand that even though your physician may not be familiar with mould sensitivities you should not feel alone. There are many others like you.

                      Tim Law, PhD (Architecture), Archsciences

                      Tim Law

                      Mould Sensitivities: You Are Not Alone

                      Fungi, the fifth kingdom. Ubiquitous, prolific, little understood. They are the great recyclers, decomposing trees, recovering its nutrients, nourishing the soil. They are selectively symbiotic, and at times territorial. 

                      But once they sporulate in water-damaged buildings, they become unequivocally unhealthy to humans. 

                      You are not alone in your home.

                      There is an entire ecosystem of microorganisms waging biological warfare. Quite different from human warfare, there is no morality in this war, no good vs evil, no heroes or villains, it is simply what fungi do. 

                      It turns out that mould does not live a solitary existence. They form colonies. The word ‘colony’ has been well chosen. 

                      Mould can team up with other organisms such as bacteria to form biofilms — a kind of fortified city wall to protect the organisms within its confines. 

                      More significantly, mould colonises. It is opportunistic, dormant until the conditions are right, then invades and proliferates. Like any colonist, mould does not like to share. It is hypothesised that mould sends out mycotoxins (mould toxins) to eliminate its competition. 

                      The strategies largely fall in two methods: arrive early and multiply quickly, or arrive late and carry some big guns. 

                      Microbiologists divide the continuum as primary, secondary and tertiary colonisers. 

                      They also follow the same neat order of water activity (or wetness of a porous material): primary colonisers germinate when the material is moderately damp for a few days, and tertiary colonisers when it is very damp for a long period of months.

                      The Might of Mould

                      Human ingenuity has turned these mould metabolites into medicines — a vast range of fungal antibiotics are derived from mould. 

                      Humans also figured that we could isolate and weaponise mycotoxins. In the stuff of nightmares, trichothecenes can be derived from the common tertiary coloniser found in water-damaged buildings, Stachybotrys chartarum, that gram for gram, exceeds mustard gas in toxicity. 

                      Stachybotrys chartarum has received superstar status in the media and is commonly referred to as “toxic black mould”. This turns out to be a rather unhelpful description since mould has different colours depending on the substrate it feeds on, and changes colours across its life cycle, just like trees do across seasons.

                      koji - mould sensitivities - eco health solutions
                      Koji growing on white rice

                      Yet not all moulds are hazardous. Some moulds are brilliantly delicious. Koji (Aspergillus oryzae) creates umami-charged cuisine.

                      Impressively, one could marinate raw meat with shio-koji and let the process continue for days unrefrigerated without bacterial overgrowth, according to Jeremy Umansky, author of Koji Alchemy

                      One wonders if this can be applied to buildings. And indeed this idea is not far-fetched. Japanese Koji houses are dedicated fermenteries — no other ferments are permitted in the facility so as to minimise cross contamination.

                      Before fermenting is commenced, the Koji master goes through the ritual of scattering Koji spores all around the timber building structure to essentially stave off any other moulds from colonising.

                      Mould in Buildings

                      We should attend to our buildings with a similar care, seeing how most of Australian domestic construction is dominated by cellulose material. 

                      From timber frames to engineered timber products like LVLs (laminated veneer lumbers) and plywood, to particle board flooring, MDF (medium density fibre) boards, to paper-faced plasterboard wall and ceiling linings — virtually everything we build with in a typical Australian house is mould food, you just have to add water.

                      mould food - mould sensitivities - eco health solutions
                      Adam Holmes (16 Oct 2019)

                      Moisture

                      It should be pointed out that mould is not the only problem with dampness

                      Water supports life of a host of micro-organisms besides mould, it is just mould that is the most visible due to its mycelial structure. 

                      To keep mould and other microorganisms away from houses, it is as simple as keeping moisture out. 

                      Simple, but not easy. 

                      If it were easy moisture-related defects would not be repeatedly the highest reported source of problems for apartments by the NSW Office of the Building Commissioner occurring in 53% of reviewed apartment buildings. 

                      In Victoria, surveys conducted by the Australian Apartment Advocacy show water-related defects as a group of defects are well ahead of any other classification.

                      defects - mould sensitivities - eco health solutions
                      Australian Apartment Advocacy (2021)

                      In 2016, I was with a group of researchers at the University of Tasmania which analysed an industry-wide survey around condensation in new houses and apartment buildings

                      Regardless of state/territory and climate zone, there was a fairly consistent average that a third of these new buildings were estimated to have condensation problems. 

                      If we add to this the water-related defects such as failures in plumbing, roofing, cladding, water-proofing and damp-proofing, then a building free from water damage is in the minority.

                      violin plots - mould sensitivities - eco health solutions
                      ABCB (2016)

                      Condensation provisions were only introduced into the National Construction Code in 2019, meaning to say that houses and apartments built prior to this could be deemed to be code-compliant, and yet have unmitigated condensation, together with the mould and bacteria that invariably follows prolonged dampness of building materials.

                      Mould Sensitivities

                      When the micro-organisms proliferate, not only do they produce toxins to gain a competitive advantage, even their cell walls become a source of toxins.

                      These toxins are collectively referred to as biotoxins and create a range of maladies, broadly categorised as allergenic, pathogenic, toxicological and inflammatory. 

                      In essence, it can be very broad, systemic, affecting multiple organs and expressed through multiple symptoms.

                      Early symptoms often include brain fog and chronic fatigue. 

                      On prolonged exposure to water-damaged buildings, mould-sensitive patients eventually also develop chemical, light and electromagnetic hypersensitivities.

                      Lucinda has convened two high quality Environmental Sensitivity Symposia which I unreservedly recommend.

                      2015 ess - eco health solutions
                      Book Cover

                      New Research into Mould Sensitivities and Biotoxin Illnesses

                      On top of that, in an Australian first, the NHMRC (National Health and Medical Research Council) is funding research into biotoxin illness. I am one of the investigators and am optimistic that recent advancements in data mining, next-generation sequencing, transcriptomics and metagenomics will enable us to tackle this complex problem which has hitherto been too complex to analyse.

                      There is almost a poetic irony that interconnected disciplines are required to unravel the interconnected symptoms of a patient suffering from interconnecting micro-organisms.

                      Thus, if you find yourself in a water-damaged building, remember you are not alone. There are many Australians in a similar predicament that you will be able to connect with. 

                      Keep seeking for answers and keep applying pressure on the government (local, state and federal) to improve the quality of buildings we live, work and school in. 

                      Keep connecting with like-minded people and build your support network.

                      You are not alone.

                      Post by Tim Law, PhD

                      Winter Healthy Home Threats

                      Winter Healthy Home Threats Occur in Every Home

                      Winter with its cold and often wetter weather presents unique healthy home threats that differ from other seasons throughout the year.

                      What is a healthy home threat?

                      A healthy home threat is something that challenges our efforts in creating a healthy home. It might be something that undermines what we’ve done, or perhaps something that needs to be considered to prevent issues.

                      Which Challenges Does Winter Bring?

                      I like to start with looking at the way that our behaviours change with the seasons, as well as the climatic conditions. 

                      The drop in temperatures, the increase in rain in many parts of the country, the advent of snow in the ranges, and the shorter daylight hours tend to see us:

                      • Be indoors more of the time
                      • Use heating
                      • Perhaps light the fire, especially for date night 
                      • Close windows and doors to keep the cold out and heat in
                      • Draw curtains and blinds for more hours due to the earlier sunset
                      • We wear more layers of clothing
                      • Our clothes are thicker 
                      • We may need to dry our clothes inside due to inclement weather
                      • We often eat soups, stews and roasts – making the most of our ovens
                      • Some people bathe more often or take longer and hotter showers to warm up

                       You may be surprised to discover that all of these behaviours can create healthy home threats.

                       Let’s take a look at the threats and what can be done to reduce any issues.

                      frost on green leaves - winter healthy home threats

                      Reduced Indoor Air Quality

                      When we “close up” our homes (closing windows and keeping doors shut) to keep the heat in, we’re reducing the number of times that the air is exchanged. This means that the air doesn’t get diluted often, if at all, which can result in reduced indoor air quality.

                      What happens is that VOCs, gases and other contaminants build up in the air. Oxygen levels often are reduced and carbon dioxide can increase – leading to feelings of sleepiness.

                      Ventilation is key.

                      SOLUTIONS

                      1. The simplest thing to do is to leave windows open just a tiny bit, as long as it is safe to do so, can dilute the air well.
                      2. Regularly opening windows and doors several times throughout the day will exchange the air, and I recommend that this is done at least 3 times a day, and preferably every hour or two.
                      3. If it isn’t possible to do this 2-3 times a day, then an air purifier would also assist.

                      Carbon Monoxide Build-Up

                      There’s a big difference between carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. 

                      Carbon dioxide (CO2) is one of the gases that we exhale. 

                      Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly gas that comes from combustion – gas appliances are one of the biggest contributors to CO levels within our homes. Cars are another big source, which is why I don’t like people idling their cars in their garages or driveways.

                      Since we’re using gas appliances more during winter – heating, cooking, hot showers – there’s an increased risk.

                      SOLUTIONS

                      1. Have your gas appliances checked by a licensed gas fitter every autumn so that they are ready for use in winter.
                      2. Ventilate your home often – as discussed above.
                      3. Avoid idling your car in the garage or driveway.

                      Poor Outdoor Air

                      The levels of outdoor air pollution can become very high in areas where people rely on wood fires for heating.

                      The smoke produced by wood fires can contain formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, chemicals (some of which are known carcinogens) and fine particulate matter. 

                      According to the Environment & Human Health Inc. (n.d.) wood smoke “interferes with normal lung development in infants and children… can depress the immune system… [and, according to the WHO] can cause coughs, headaches, eye and throat irritation in otherwise healthy people.” 

                      Whilst enclosed wood fires, such as Coonaras, don’t release the pollutants indoors, they are still released outdoors, and can readily affect your neighbours, particularly who are sensitive and/or have asthma or other respiratory complaints.

                      SOLUTIONS

                      1. Avoid using wood fires.
                      2. Rug up and/or be physically active – this is a great time of year to get big gardening jobs done.
                      3. Invest in an air purifier to help clean your indoor air.

                      Increased Moisture Levels

                      Did you know that “occupant activity” is one a big factor in indoor moisture levels?

                      The obvious ones are bathing, drying clothes, and stovetop cooking. However, occupant activities that increase moisture also include using gas appliances, breathing and sweating (or perspiring).

                      Given we tend to not only wear more layers in winter, but also the layers are thicker, they take longer to dry. As a result, many people dry them inside near a source of heat, or pop them in the clothes dryer.

                      Combine our tendency to be indoors in winter with these activities, then add to it the closed windows and doors, you can see how quickly moisture levels can increase.

                      SOLUTIONS

                      1. Monitor the levels of relative humidity with a hygrometer – we’re aiming for 45-55% RH; 50% RH is ideal.
                      2. Use extractor fans when cooking, bathing or laundering. 
                      3. If your extractor fans don’t vent to the outside, or you don’t have efficient ones, then a dehumidifier can be useful.
                        clothes dryer and shelves - winter healthy home threats

                        Mould on Windows & Curtains

                        In the cooler months, many people report condensation on windows and glass doors especially in the mornings.

                        This happens because glass changes temperature quickly, and moisture in the air condenses out of it, forming condensation on this, and other, cold surfaces.

                        It is due to the presence of this moisture that mould can readily form on blinds or curtains that touch the glass, and even on the glass itself.

                        SOLUTIONS

                        1. Dry your windows daily with a dry bamboo microfibre cloth.
                        2. Dry glass that is high up using a flat mop.
                        3. Leave your windows open a little to equalise the temperature.

                        Increased Exposure to EMF/EME

                        Spending more time indoors can also increase your exposure to EMF/EME if you have wi-fi or use wireless devices.

                        Wireless technology is used in smart meters, Bluetooth equipment, smartphones and tablets, 3G, 4G & 5G, phone towers, home stereo systems, and more.

                        SOLUTIONS

                        1. Head outdoors to “discharge” and “ground.”
                        2. Do without wi-fi and other wireless devices.
                        3. Turn the wi-fi and wireless devices on only when you need them, ensuring they are off while you sleep.

                         

                        home office - winter healthy home threats

                        As you can see, 

                        Winter Healthy Home Threats Occur in Every Home – to Varying Degrees

                        I trust that you are feeling empowered to take the relevant action in your home.

                         

                        If you’d like to get some advice on this, then please book a call.

                        Environmental Stressors Can Cause Blindness??

                        Environmental Stressors Can Cause Blindness??

                        Say what? Environmental stressors can cause blindness????

                        Yup.

                        Let me illustrate this with a story about Billie.

                        Billie (not her real name) is a young Mum who is super keen to ensure her bubba is safe. She’d heard about 5G and noticed some of the attention it was getting. So she asked Dr Google, she joined FB groups, she sought out information from everywhere.

                        Out came Protective Mamma Bear.

                        5G became an obsession. It consumed every available moment between changing nappies, feeding, washing, playing with bubba and sleep…. Well, to be honest, it even started to creep in there too – as she dreamed about #5G.

                        Billie was so obsessed with 5G that she thought nothing of using her tablet while bubba slept, while it connected to the wi-fi.

                        The humidifier in bubba’s room that was causing mould to grow on the ceiling didn’t even enter her mind.

                        The perfume she spritzed on her body and clothes didn’t get a mention.

                        She was so caught up in the one issue, that she saw nothing else.

                        Not surprisingly, she was blinded by her obsession with one environmental stressor.

                        Billie is not alone. Environmental Stressors are Hugely Important

                        Billie’s story is not unique. I see this time and time again – be it around #SmartMeters, #fragrances, #lead, #mould… any #EnvironmentalStressor. 

                        Whilst it is valid to be informed and proactive, there are quite a lot of issues with this kind of blinkered focus on one thing. 

                        In a nutshell, the issues are:

                        🤷🏽‍♂️ There is a lot of mis-information, hype and well-marketed nonsense. As a result, you can end up spending a lot of time and money on unnecessary things

                        🔎 With all the mis-information, you might end up doing something that could make things worse

                        🔍 Usually, when my team and I assess homes of people like Billie, we find all sorts of other problems that are much larger issues than the one they are stressing about… the blinkers need to come off to be able to address the bigger picture

                        And yet, there is much more to this…

                        It is one small word that has massive ramifications.

                        🔎 It is #stress 🔎 

                        Stress can cause a whole gamut of problems. It can:

                        😡 Reduce your ability to #detoxify 

                        😞 Negatively impact your #sleep (and as a result, your mood)

                        😕 Cause a release of all sorts of chemicals in the body that ultimately reduce your #resilience 

                        AND, this next one is the worst of all, in my opinion.

                        😔 Stress can cause you to freeze up, become #overwhelmed and take NO action


                        I believe strongly in taking #empowered action.

                        There is always something you can do to make a difference.

                        Even if it feels small, it is enormous! 

                        So, I urge you to keep perspective, to open your heart to the wonderful things in life, and draw inspiration to take empowered action.

                        One of my favourite recommendations is to put flowering plants in your garden (or balcony). This will help the birds, bees, insects and your loved ones. 

                        Take a moment to imagine how the world would benefit if every single person did this? 

                        🌻🐝🌸🐾💐🦉🌞🦆🌿


                        Managing Mould

                        Managing #mould. It’s everywhere, so how?

                        Managing mould doesn’t have to be an uphill battle.

                        Managing Mould At Your Place

                        Since mould is a moisture issue, we are going to focus on moisture.

                        Moisture can come from weather-events, building-related issues and occupant activity. Today, we are going to focus on occupant activity – this is what you do within your “four walls.”

                        My top 5 sources of increased moisture include:

                        1. Bathing – showering or bathing
                        2. Using the clothes dryer
                        3. Hanging laundry inside
                        4. Cooking, especially with gas 
                        5. Breathing

                        These are all regular events in most households, so what can you do?

                        The first step is to monitor the levels of relative humidity (RH) to help keep mould at bay. The ideal range is between 45-55% RH. 

                        To understand more about humidity, please read this post.

                        A simple and inexpensive way to monitor RH is with a hygrometer – you can get a simple one here

                        Some Simple Steps

                        Based on my top sources of moisture, managing mould can be done simply and easily by following these seven simple steps.

                        1. Use the extractor fans when bathing, cooking or doing the laundry
                        2. Dry your laundry outside
                        3. If you do have to use a dryer, vent the dryer to the exterior
                        4. Make sure you use the extractor fan every time you cook. If you don’t have one, then open windows to all for cross-ventilation
                        5. Open your windows and doors! It can take as few as TWO MINUTES to exchange the air in your home. It is essential to do this as often as possible – at least 6 times day
                        6. Consider a dehumidifier (especially if your extractor fans vent to the ceiling void, and not outside)
                        7. Consider an air purifier to help to keep the air clean

                        If you would like to explore this further and get my advice,
                        then book a Virtual Indoor Environmental Health Assessment here.