Mold in a room is one of the most common problems in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Although it is often tried to be solved by simple whitewashing, the real cause lies in the combination of humidity, cold walls, and poor ventilation.
Regardless of the location – kitchen, basement, or exterior wall – mold is always a sign that something in the object is not physically properly resolved.
What is mold and why does it occur
Mold is a microorganism that develops in humid conditions. For its development, humidity, temperature, and organic substrate are necessary.
When these conditions combine, dark spots appear on the walls and an unpleasant odor occurs.
Condensation – the main cause of mold
Condensation occurs when warm air comes into contact with a cold wall. The moisture from the air turns into water and is retained on the surface.
This is the most common cause of mold in apartments.
Cold walls and thermal bridges
- exterior walls without insulation
- room corners
- concrete elements
- underground walls
In these areas, the wall temperature is lower, and condensation occurs.
Mold in the kitchen
Kitchens are at risk due to cooking steam. If the hood does not ventilate the air outside, the humidity remains in the room.
Basements and walls in the ground
Walls in the ground are always cold and humid. Without hydroinsulation and insulation, mold is almost certain.
Most common mistakes
- whitewashing without solving the cause
- incorrect materials
- closing the wall with cement
How to permanently remove mold
- remove mold
- solve the cause
- apply a proper system
Thermal insulation
Insulation raises the wall temperature and prevents condensation.
Ventilation
Ventilation removes humidity and prevents its return.
Professional guide: how to recognize the cause
- lower part of the wall → capillary moisture
- corners → thermal bridge
- behind the cabinet → ventilation
Test with foil
Glue the foil to the wall for 24 hours. If the moisture is under the foil, it comes from the wall. If it’s on the surface, it’s condensation.
Dew point
If the wall temperature drops below the dew point, condensation occurs.
Solution table
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Mold in the corner | Thermal bridge | Insulation |
| Bottom of the wall | Moisture from the ground | Hydroinsulation |
| Behind the cabinet | Poor air | Ventilation |
Real examples
Apartment without facade → cold wall
Basement → moisture from the ground
New building → no ventilation
Advanced solutions
- heat recovery
- XPS insulation
- hydroinsulation
Most common questions
Why does mold return? Because the cause has not been removed.
Does thermal paint help? Partly, but it does not solve the basic problem.
Conclusion
Mold is the result of humidity and cold walls. Without insulation and ventilation, there is no permanent solution.
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