3 main types of Moisture:
Condensation – It is probably the most common form of moisture that does affect your home. Effects of condensation include streaming windows and walls, deterioration in decoration such as discolouring of window panes and eventually the growth of black mould.
Rising Moisture – It happens when the water enters a structure through a permeable masonry wall in an upward movement by capillary action. This process occurs when water molecules are electro chemically attracted to mineral surfaces. Effects of Rising Moisture include Decayed skirting boards, crumbling plaster, peeling paint and wallpaper.
Positive Pressure Ventilation Systems – Quite common in existing Kiwi homes but these systems are not compliant with the current ventilation standards for the new builds. Essentially the system works by taking air from the attic or roof space and pumping it into the main living areas though ducts or vents. The air is trapped at this point and relies on gaps in the building structure to allow it to move. One more disadvantage of these systems is that they do not have a heat exchanger.
Balanced Pressure Heat Recovery Systems – Newer systems taking in the fresh air and pushing out the old air. These systems come fitted with a heat exchanger that recovers heat energy from the outgoing air and uses it to warm up the incoming air. This system is specifically designed for modern homes with fairly airtight construction and they work best with outlets in multiple rooms so air can flow through the whole house. If you live in a colder part of the country you’ll see better power bill savings than warmer regions.
Extractor Fans & Rangehoods – Huge amounts of moisture is generated in Kitchens and Bathrooms. This is where Rangehoods and Extractor Fans should be placed – as close to the moisture source as possible and must be vented to the outside and not the roof space.
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