ABSTRACT

A crucial aspect of bad IAQ is a result not of toxic chemicals from building materials or other synthetic substances introduced into the home, but from an entirely natural source. Damp and mould are a major threat to healthy indoor environments and must be managed as effectively as possible as these can be one of the main causes of respiratory illnesses and discomfort. This chapter discusses the nature and causes of damp problems but also offers alternative solutions as conventional solutions to damp and mould can often be unsuccessful and introduce even more toxic chemicals into buildings. Innovative solutions using natural and moisture buffering materials are worthy of further development and thus building materials are critical when considering damp and mould.