News Update
The Wallcoverings Association (WA) recognizes that issues concerning mould and mildew are gaining increased attention from both residential and commercial property owners as well as the public at large. Although wallcovering is often cited in connection with mould and mildew growth, it must be understood that wallcovering does not cause mould and mildew.
In virtually all cases, the mould and mildew growth is due to excessive moisture. In order to prevent or eliminate mould and mildew one must identify and eliminate the source of the excessive moisture. In unusual cases where moisture or moisture infiltration from the wall cavity cannot be eliminated or sufficiently reduced, the use of wall coverings with higher permeability ratings should be considered.
This statement serves to communicate the WA’s position regarding the relationship of mould and mildew to our industry’s products. It is intended to provide one industry voice and to aid in presenting facts and structure in our response to this growing issue. Additional materials will serve to support our position statement and further detail our efforts to provide educational and corrective procedures in relation to mould in residential and commercial properties. For simplicity, all the issues are referred to as mould.
Wallcovering discolouration or wall deterioration caused by mould is an indication of a moisture problem. The WA recommends that the source of the water or excessive moisture should be found immediately and eliminated. The control of moisture vapour and its relationship to different types of wallcovering constructions must be communicated to specifiers, installers, architects and property owners.
For preventive measures, the WA stresses that it is important that any wallcovering professional (specifier, architect, designer, installer or user), homeowner or commercial property owner should conduct ongoing evaluation and be aware of any potential construction problems that may cause excessive moisture.
WA members agree that it is necessary to educate and inform wallcovering professionals about the prevention and detection of mould, proper removal, wall surface treatment and product selection,
and the proper process for wallcovering installation.
The WA will make every effort to communicate corrective measures and provide educational tools to guard against mould as it relates to wallcovering products.
