POSITION STATEMENT FOR THE WALLCOVERINGS ASSOCIATION  REGARDING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MOLD AND MILDEW AND WALLCOVERINGS

The Wallcoverings Association (WA) recognizes that issues concerning mold and mildew are gaining increased attention from both residential and commercial property owners as well as the public at large. Although wallcovering is often cited in connection with mold and mildew growth, it must be understood that wallcovering does not cause mold and mildew. In virtually all cases, the mold and mildew growth is due to excessive moisture. In order to prevent or eliminate mold and mildew one must identify and eliminate the source of the excessive moisture. In unusual cases where moisture or moisture infiltration from the wall cavity can not be eliminated or sufficiently reduced, use of wallcoverings with higher permeability ratings should be considered.

This statement serves to communicate the WA’s position regarding the relationship of mold and mildew to our industry’s products. It is intended to provide one industry voice and to aid in presenting fact and structure in our response to this growing issue. Additional materials will serve to support our position statement and further detail our efforts to provide educational and corrective procedures in relation to mold in residential and commercial properties. For simplicity, all the issues are referred to as mold.

Wallcovering discoloration or wall deterioration caused by mold is an indication of a moisture problem. The WA recommends that the source of the water or excessive moisture should be found immediately and eliminated. The control of moisture vapor and its relationship to different types of wallcovering constructions must be communicated to specifiers, installers, architects and property owners.

For preventive measures, the WA stresses that it is important that any wallcovering professional (specifier, architect, designer, installer or user), homeowner or commercial property owner should conduct ongoing evaluation and be aware of any potential construction problems that may cause excessive moisture.

WA members agree that it is necessary to educate and inform wallcovering professionals about the prevention and detection of mold, proper removal, wall surface treatment and product selection, and the proper process for wallcovering installation. The WA will make every effort to communicate corrective measures and provide educational tools to guard against mold as it relates to wallcovering products. 

Access the Mold: Cause, Effect and Response - A Study of Wallcovering Products by clicking here.