Mold and Mildew issues in Canadian Homes continue to plague people, both aboriginal and non-aboriginal, but it seems to be a critical health problem in aboriginal homes. Under certain conditions, it produces a poisonous substance that can cause headaches, dizziness and nausea. The main factors contributing to the mould and mildew issues are lack of proper care or maintenance, inadequate air circulation and ventilation, overcrowding and improper construction.

In dealing with the mold and mildew issues, the following concepts were incorporated in all newly constructed homes.

• A one piece tub has been included to eliminate old problems with faulty caulking that results in mold and mildew.
• Water supply piping to fixtures in the bathroom, kitchen and utility room go straight up the crawlspace rather than running horizontally within the partition walls. In the past, houses had problems with condensation and water dripping from the water supply lines within the walls causing rot and mildew problems.
• The plumbing header pipe is insulated within the crawlspace and stubbing directly up to the fixture greatly minimizes mold and mildew problems.
• The dryer exhaust vent in the utility room is steel pipe and is vented to the exterior of the house.
• Ceramic tiles throughout the complete home reduces mold and is more durable than carpet or linoleum.
• Baseboards have a clear caulking along the bottom in order to prevent water spills running underneath the walls.
• We have an air exchange system with a humidistat along with venting placed in strategic locations in the home where humidity is at its highest.
• We use PVC windows, dual low E, in which condensation will not rot the wooden casing.