Wall Space Ventillation in Townhouse
I need help in understanding how the inter wall spaces in a stacked adjoined unit townhouse should be treated. Should these spaces be sealed or ventilated somehow?<!—-><!—-> <!—->
I am particularly concerned about mould growth and indoor air quality issues.<!—-><!—->
The structure is a stacked townhouse built in 1986. The living structure is built on a concrete pad above a parking a common parking garage. There are about 8 units sharing adjoining common walls arranged along the full length of a city block.<!—-><!—->
The units are separated by a concrete block wall with cement board. The interior walls are drywall with vapor barrier on steel studs mounted to the cement board.<!—-><!—->
There are also many walls within the unit (room dividers etc etc) also made of drywall again with vapor barrier.<!—-> <!—->
Around the outlet boxes and any other opening there is a constant flow of cool air which I believe to be coming form the inter-wall space. <!—-><!—->
When I first moved in the drywall ended about 1/2″ above the floor which I believe allowed air flow out of the inter-wall space into the rooms.<!—-><!—->
A few years ago we installed new baseboards and sealed up that 1/2″ gap with spray foam. I am now wondering if that was a good idea. <!—-><!—->
So the question is: Should these wall spaces be somehow ventilated to the interior of the room? Perhaps by installation of grills or some other air channels?<!—-> <!—->
All responses gratefully received.<!—-><!—->
Replies
Greetings Ontario,
As a first time poster Welcome to Breaktime.
This post, in response to your question, will bump the thread through the 'recent discussion' listing again.
Perhaps it will catch someone's attention that can help you with advice.
Cheers
half of good living is staying out of bad situations
Below is a site you may find informative.
Cheers
http://www.buildingscience.com/resources/resources.htm
half of good living is staying out of bad situations