Mould growth in buildings

Mould growth in buildings is a complex process that is affected by moisture and temperature, the characteristics of the building material and the characteristics of the fungi. The complexity brings challenges when assessing the risk of mould growth when designing new buildings and how to investigate the damage and interpret results from damage investigations.

At RISE, we have extensive experience with the biological processes surrounding these issues. We have been researching the conditions for mould to appear on building materials for many years. For example, this has resulted in a method for testing the susceptibility of materials to mould at different moisture levels. It has been validated in several field studies, and we offer material manufacturers to try the method. The results can be used for the right choice of materials for new construction, with a reduced risk of mould damage. Material manufacturers often turn to us to test how materials resist mould growth at high moisture levels as part of product development.

Microbiological analyzes of building materials are an essential part of a damage investigation of moisture-damaged buildings to assess the extent of the damage. They are also the basis for relevant and sustainable action proposals. At RISE, we have been working on carrying out such analyses since the 1990s and have broad and deep expertise in the field to detect and quantify mold growth in buildings and how the results from such analyses can be interpreted.

We are keen that the results and interpretations we provide to our customers are research-based. We also want our work to be cost-effective. For example, we advise against carrying out costly analyses that do not provide helpful information when investigating and proposing measures for moisture damage.