Trade Articles

Indoor Air Quality and Mold Prevention of the Building Envelope

Microbiological organisms, such as fungi and bacteria, are important components of our ecosystem. These microorganisms break down dead material into its constituent components and as such are important participants in earth's continuing life cycle. However, if these microorganisms proliferate in buildings, they can adversely impact indoor air quality (IAQ), create hazardous health conditions for the occupants and contribute to the deterioration of building components.

Indoor Air Quality and Mold Prevention of the Building Envelope by Roger Morse and Don Acker, March 2006

Mold and Health Issues

Over the past decade, there has been extreme media attention to issues about mold and allegedly adverse effects. Unfortunately, misinformation about mold and health effects abounds and often the public is led to believe that exposure to mold is a dangerous event. This paper presents common points of misinformation about mold and health. Scientific documentation to refute the misinformation is presented.

Mold and Health Issues by Suellen W. Pirage, PhD., September 2006

Natural Versus Mechanical Ventilation

The reality is that the natural infiltration of air is not a reliable souce of adequate amounts of air to maintain good air quality. This article explores the reasons for this and then outlines the benefits of controlled mechanical ventilation. Article written by Gord Cooke; reprinted fromHPAC Jan/Feb 2005 with permission.
Natural Versus Mechanical Ventilation Article by Gord Cooke, January/February 2005

Low Sone Fans Article

Low Sone Ventilating Fans are Expanding Among HVI Membership
Homes built in recent years are often larger and more airtight than in the past in order to keep conditioned air from escaping. These larger homes often have larger bathrooms with whirlpool baths, steam showers and other amenities to provide added comforts.

As a result, many homeowners and builders have recognized the need for quiet ventilating fans. Homeowners want to enjoy a quiet, relaxing whirlpool bath without being disturbed by a loud ventilating fan. They choose a quiet model in order to fully enjoy their home investment.

Low Sone Fans by HVI, February 2004   

Ventilation Controls for Life-Styles, presented by the HVI Sales & Marketing Committee

In recent years, as new homes have become more airtight, the awareness of the need for residential mechanical ventilation has been growing more than ever. Proper ventilation is essential to removing excessive moisture, which promotes mold and mildew build-up and can deteriorate the building's structure. Ventilation is also important to help reduce the build up of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that affect indoor air quality (IAQ) and may cause health problems for occupants.
Ventilation Controls for Life-Styles by HVI Sales & Marketing, December 2001