Modern housing construction methods are always innovating to try and address the kinds of moisture and ventilation issues that cause mold – such as tighter vapour barriers and improved window design. But, sometimes we can look to the past for good ideas that can be brought back into the present.
Radiant heat, put simply, is heat that comes from a source of energy like a burning fire or stove element. As a system of heating the home, radiant heating has been used since the days of ancient Rome. It works via circulating heated water, because water retains heat much longer than air.
What we now think of as old-style hot water radiators – those clunky, ornate and often hissing rads – were invented in mid-1800’s and largely went out of favour when forced air furnaces came to replace them. Modern builders, however, are taking a look at this old method which, interestingly, has the beneficial effect of reducing the tendency to mold growth.
Modern radiant heating systems, which are extremely popular in the U.K., typically circulate warmed water through tubes beneath the floors, inside walls or along baseboards. Its promoters say the heat is consistent and constant and can even lower energy use.
Since radiant heating adds no humidity, it reduces the incidence of excess humidity and condensation – and the chances for mold to grow. Forced air furnaces, on the other hand, tend to dry out the air and often require a humidifier – not so with radiant heating. For those reasons, radiant heating is said to be a good choice for those suffering from allergies.
Mold … in Your Home?
The conditions that can help to create mold can be multiple and may involve things you don’t know about – like too much condensation around windows that doesn’t ever dry out. Sometimes the only hint you have that mold is present in your home is a persistent musty odour or unexplainable respiratory symptoms.
Be sure – get help from the experts at MoldInspections.ca. Please call us for a hassle-free quote today.
MoldInspections.ca is the trusted leader for mold-free homes and breathable indoor air spaces in Toronto, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and beyond. Providing certified mold inspection, detection and testing since 2005, we service home owners, real-estate agents, landlords, property managers, insurance companies and businesses. Featured on CTV and Global news, official supplier to HGTV’s Income Properties with Scott McGillivray and Leave It To Bryan and recommended by local contractors, we regularly serve as expert witnesses in court proceeding relating to Mold and Indoor Air Quality issues. Do you have mold? Call us today for a free quote at (416) 575-6111.
