Managing Moisture in Buildings

Wednesday 9th October 2024 2:30PM – 3:30PM
Location/Venue: All Saints Church Hall, All Saints Rd, Sidmouth EX10 8ES

Understanding and Managing Moisture in Buildings. Talk by Dr Valentina Marincioni, University College London.

Booking not required. There is a £4 charge payable on the door.

Discover how the balance of moisture in buildings plays a vital role in creating comfortable, healthy, and long-lasting homes. In this insightful talk, Dr Valentina Marincioni will explore the fascinating science behind moisture management and its impact on both our living spaces and well-being. Learn about practical strategies for improving ventilation, insulation, and maintenance to enhance the durability of your home while ensuring a healthier environment for everyone inside.

The tragic case of two-year-old Awaab Ishak highlights the severe consequences of moisture imbalance and mould in homes. In addition to health risks, excessive moisture can affect building structures, leading to costly repairs and reduced lifespan. By understanding moisture dynamics better, we can implement effective management and mitigation strategies to ensure healthier living environments and more resilient buildings. Techniques such as improved ventilation, robust insulation, and regular maintenance play a vital role in controlling moisture levels and preventing mould growth.

Dr Valentina Marincioni is a lecturer in building physics at the Bartlett School of Environment, Energy and Resources at UCL and technical director of the UK Centre for Moisture in Buildings (UKCMB). With an extensive background in studying the interactions between buildings and their environments, she has contributed significantly to advancing the understanding of moisture-related challenges in construction. Dr Marincioni holds an Engineering Doctorate from UCL and has published numerous papers on moisture control, sustainable building practices, and robustness of insulation systems. Her expertise is frequently sought after by academic institutions, industry professionals, local authorities and policy-makers who aim to develop more robust and sustainable built environments.

Dr Marincioni leads several projects aimed at improving moisture management in buildings. Her work focuses on integrating scientific research with practical applications to create effective solutions for moisture-related problems. Her role with the UKCMB involves developing standards for moisture management, transferring knowledge to the industry through workshops and publications, and participating in various committees that shape policy and best practices in building construction and maintenance. She is a passionate advocate for sustainable building practices and regularly shares her knowledge through conferences and seminars.

Talk in partnership with the Sidmouth National Trust Supporters Group

Photo credit. Moisture on window Nancy Hughes.