Mold Growth Control in Cold Attics through Adaptive Ventilation: Validation by Field Measurements

Paper in proceeding, 2010

Advanced numerical simulations have shown that the risk for mold growth in cold attics can be substantially reduced, and even eliminated, if the cold attic is sealed and fitted with adaptive ventilation. A basic system would be comprised of mechanical fans and dampers controlled by attic and outdoor climate sensors installed in a sealed attic without vents. The ventilation system would run only when the outdoor air has a potential to dry out the attic. Field tests and extensive measurements over complete annual cycles confirm the simulations and also show that sufficient airtightness can be achieved in practice with fairly small effort.