Cork for Damp Walls: Effectiveness and Sustainability

The environment we live in has a significant impact on our physical and psychological health. Damp walls and the presence of mould in our homes can have negative effects on our bodies. 
A study carried out at the University of Medicine and Health Sciences in Pisa examined the effects of dampness and mould on respiratory health. The results revealed that people who live in damp environments contaminated by mould have a higher risk of developing respiratory disorders, such as asthma and chronic bronchitis. It was also found that people sensitive to allergies are particularly affected, with symptoms of rhinitis and conjunctivitis tending to worsen in such conditions.
The presence of mould in our homes can also have an impact on the appearance of rooms. Dark, unsightly stains on the walls can damage the overall perception of a space, reducing its aesthetic value and spoiling the pleasure of living in it.
Let’s look at some solutions to combat damp and mould without giving up the sustainability of the products we use.

Why are some homes so damp that mould forms?

The formation and build-up of damp and mould inside homes can be attributed to several causes relating both to the design of the building and to the bad habits of those who live in it. 
A design that does not provide for adequate ventilation can lead to a vicious circle of stagnant moisture. Water can also seep in from the roof and walls and remain inside the masonry, increasing the dampness.
Architects and designers have the task of identifying and separating the cold spots inside walls or in the corners of rooms. When warm air meets these cold surfaces, condensation occurs and moisture builds up, which can contribute to the growth of mould.
Then there are the bad habits of the occupants that lead to mould forming indoors: reluctance to open windows or use mechanical ventilation systems; the habit of drying laundry indoors; and poor maintenance of pipes or boilers. These are among the main causes of mould in homes.
Fortunately, there are effective solutions to reduce damp and prevent mould in buildings.
 

Thermal insulation to prevent damp and mould

Making sure rooms are well ventilated is a first step towards reducing damp, by opening windows or fitting spaces with controlled mechanical ventilation systems. There is also a further measure that helps manage the formation of damp and mould inside a home: creating effective conditions for thermal insulation.
Good thermal insulation of the walls can reduce condensation and therefore interior dampness. What is more, it is a key element in ensuring living comfort, reducing energy consumption and contributing to the sustainability of buildings, as it prevents heat loss in winter and maintains a comfortable temperature indoors in summer. 
To achieve this, there are usually several ways to intervene:

1. by means of external wall insulation (ETICS), an external method of insulating walls that involves applying a layer of thermal insulation to the outer surface of the walls, followed by a protective coating.

This method guarantees high thermal efficiency, prevents the walls from absorbing moisture and so helps prevent deterioration, reduces the points where the most heat is lost and, with the external finish, allows the building’s appearance to be renewed.

1. Internal insulation involves applying a layer of insulating material directly to the inner surface of the walls. It costs less and is easy to apply, often even without professional help.

Diasen’s solution: cork-based mortars and plasters for damp walls

In modern construction, the search for ecological and efficient solutions for the thermal insulation of homes has become a fundamental priority. One of the most innovative and sustainable answers is cork-based mortars and plasters, the flagship of our company.
This material, which combines extraordinary insulating properties with marked breathability, is able to revolutionise the approach to insulation, guaranteeing living comfort all year round, energy savings and a particular focus on protection from heat.

Cork is a sustainable, ecological and renewable material

Cork is a natural, ecological material obtained from the bark of the cork oak (Quercus suber). This harvesting process, which does not harm the tree but actually revitalises it, makes cork a sustainable, ecological and renewable material. It is a treasure of the Mediterranean, found in significant quantities in Sardinia and, to a lesser extent, in some areas around Grosseto.
Cork is renewable and recyclable, characteristics that set it in sharp contrast with the synthetic and petrochemical materials often used in traditional construction.
One of the main characteristics that makes cork an ideal material for thermal insulation is its low thermal conductivity. Cork’s cellular structure is made up of closed cells, filled with trapped air, which act as a natural barrier against the passage of heat. This translates into a high insulating power that works in both winter and summer.
Cork also has a remarkable ability to absorb and release ambient moisture in a controlled way, reducing the risk of condensation and mould forming. Thanks to the thermal insulation provided by cork-based mortars and plasters, you can enjoy the wellbeing of a home protected from temperature swings and external weather, and free of mould too. You can enjoy your home knowing that you are breathing clean air, ideal for you and your whole family.

Conclusions

The cork-based mortars and plasters offered by Diasen are a cutting-edge solution for the thermal insulation of homes. Thanks to its extraordinary insulating properties and its ecological nature, cork is confirmed as a perfect choice for a healthy, comfortable and energy-efficient living environment.
Choosing cork means embracing a philosophy of sustainability, putting the health of the planet and of people at the heart of your choices. Living in a home insulated with cork-based mortars and plasters is a unique experience that combines the need for energy efficiency with the emotion of a protected, welcoming environment.
Diasen gives you the chance to make an informed choice, investing in your home and the environment you live in, with the certainty of having made the right choice for the future. Visit our website to find out about all our cork-based products, which are easy to apply, within everyone’s reach and certified.