The building envelop is generally considered as our third skin. Moss growth and mold growth are constrains which reduce the strength of the third skin. This study is aimed to analyze the effect of the mold growth and moss growth on different walling materials such as Brick, cement blocks, cement stabilized earth block, Cabook, Mud concrete blocks, Geo polymerized earth blocks walls and plastered walls with cement plaster and rough finish plaster in a tropical climate.
Organic matter, surface roughness, water absorption capacity, sorptivity and the capillary action of those walling materials were studied first. After which mold growth and moss growth were conducted in the real world controlled environment to accelerate the mold growth and moss growth. The growth rate and the strength reduction due to the effect of mold growth and moss growth were studied.
There are three basic categories of water damagee, based on the level of contamination. Category 1 Water - Refers to a source of water that does not pose substantial threat to humans and classified as "clean water". Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows or appliance malfunctions that involves water supply lines. Category 2 Water - Refers to a source of water that contains a significant degree of chemical, biological or physical contaminants and causes discomfort or sickness when consumed or even exposed to. Known as "grey water". This type carries microorganisms and nutrients of micro-organisms. Examples are toilet bowls with urine (no feces), sump pump failures, seepage due to hydrostatic failure and water discharge from dishwashers or washing machines. Category 3 Water - Known as "black water" and is grossly unsanitary. This water contains unsanitary agents, harmful bacteria and fungi, causing severe discomfort or sickness. Type 3 category are contaminated water sources that affect the indoor environment. This category includes water sources from sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, storm surge, ground surface water or standing water. Category 2 Water or Grey Water that is not promptly removed from the structure and or have remained stagnant may be re classified as Category 3 Water. Toilet back flows that originates from beyond the toilet trap is considered black water contamination regardless of visible content or color.