Summer improvements reduce threat of mold in Kissam

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Summer improvements reduce threat of mold in Kissam

InsideVandy - Nashville,TN*

Submitted by Norah Scanlan on 09-18-08

http://www.insidevandy.com/drupal/node/7953

Last spring, International Commissioning Engineers (ICE) entered

Kissam Quadrangle to try and solve the mold problem it faced last

year. Tests were taken and their results were used to decide what

measures should be performed.

ICE offered several recommendations to decrease the possibility of

mold growth and reduce humidity. The installation of additional

exhaust fans and grills, new filters and foil insulation, and the

treatment of exterior room walls with a mold inhibitor and mold

resistant paint all were added over the summer.

" We are always on alert to mold and mildew in campus buildings

because Vanderbilt is located in a very humid part of the country.

If moisture in the environment condenses on indoor surfaces, it can

support the growth of mold on those surfaces, " said Lisbeth Wyatt,

director of Plant Operations.

Sophomore Chelsea Mayo, who lived in Kissam last year, thinks that

the curtains caused problems for a lot of students.

" They stuck to the window, so when it was cold outside and there was

condensation, mold started to grow on the window panes, " said Mayo.

These curtains were later replaced with blinds in an effort to

alleviate the problem.

This year, mold growth does not seem to be an issue due to summer

maintenance.

" This is my second year to live in Kissam, and I've only dealt with

mold once, " said sophomore Bruse. " My filters were changed

immediately. It was not a big deal at all. This year, especially

since Vandy added renovations to the quad, no one that I know of is

encountering any problems whatsoever. "

" So far this year, we have received one report of mold in Kissam

Quad. Housing and Plant Operations responded immediately to

thoroughly clean the room and assist the resident, " Wyatt said.

Although mold complaints are low, several students have reported the

presence of a musty smell in their room.

" We've gone into those rooms. It's nothing compared to last year, "

said Ann Nielson, director of Facilities. Dehumidifiers are being

placed in these rooms, and they are then monitored on a daily basis.

Wyatt said students can help prevent mold and mildew by keeping

moisture out of their rooms. In humid weather, students should keep

windows closed and avoid bringing wet or damp items into their

rooms. If they see something they suspect is mold or mildew, they

should report their concern immediately so Housing and Plant

Operations can respond.