Mould testing in Moreton Bay

Condensation in newer, tighter homes

Newer homes are built with fewer gaps than older ones. That keeps the air-conditioning efficient, but moisture from showers, cooking, drying clothes inside and a family’s breathing has fewer ways out. Mould on bedroom ceilings, around window frames and on the back of wardrobe walls in winter is the classic sign. The Australian Building Codes Board’s condensation handbook explains how surface temperature and indoor humidity combine to produce it.

An inspection checks whether exhaust fans vent outside, measures surface temperatures against the dew point, and rules out a roof or plumbing leak before putting it down to condensation.

Wet-area leaks behind new tiles

A failed shower waterproofing membrane can let water into the wall frame and the slab edge without any sign on the tiles. Swelling skirting boards in the next room, a musty smell from a built-in robe that backs onto the ensuite, or loose grout are the usual hints. Non-invasive meters can trace the wet area through the wall from the adjoining room without lifting a tile.

Bayside and island homes

On the Redcliffe Peninsula and Bribie Island, sea air keeps humidity high most of the year, and many older homes have timber floors over a low subfloor. A subfloor with poor cross-ventilation stays damp, and the timber above it shows it first. Where the subfloor can be accessed safely, readings are taken from below as well as above.

Suburbs and towns in this council area

Redcliffe · Scarborough · North Lakes · Mango Hill · Kallangur · Petrie · Strathpine · Burpengary · Narangba · Caboolture · Bribie Island · Dayboro