Indoor climate expert: Stop mold in small homes

We need to live in fewer square meters to take care of the planet. But this requires engineers and builders to understand the importance of ventilation. Otherwise, we'll get sick from mold.

Tiny houses, micro homes and simple living. It's popular to choose a smaller home driven by the dream of a sustainable lifestyle. And in the big Danish cities, we are cramming ourselves into fewer square meters than in the rest of the country. Although this is also about housing prices, it's an important step in the name of green transition. But it is a serious threat to our health if the construction industry does not take responsibility for the indoor climate.

It shouldn't be difficult

When we live in close quarters, there is more moisture in the home, which can lead to mold, according to a study we conducted at my company Climaid.

Mold is serious because it can cause eye, nose and respiratory problems, but proper ventilation can remove moisture, prevent mold and provide a healthy indoor climate.

I've visited hundreds of homes and seen how difficult it is to use a ventilation system. Some systems stop working as soon as you open the window ajar to let a gentle breeze into the home. Others require a long manual that only professionals understand. And then, of course, there are systems that are drafty or noisy, causing residents to turn them off.

My message to my engineering colleagues in the construction industry is this:

Buildings are for people, and they never fit perfectly into an Excel sheet. That's why I believe we need to reboot construction with user-friendly and comfortable ventilation systems.

As simple as possible

The more opportunities we get to work with AI, algorithms and machine learning, the further we move away from the everyday lives of residents. Technological developments make ventilation a science in itself. Therefore, engineers designing ventilation systems should think about making them as simple as possible.

Think of a ventilation system like a new car. It should be easy to operate, quiet - and it shouldn't stop working if you roll down the window to let in fresh air. Of course, there are already several of these good, noise-free systems on the market. But price follows quality, and builders often choose a cheap model when money is tight.

But remember, you're putting the health of your residents at risk when indoor climate comes last.