Mold growth on wood materials is a major concern for house owners, as it can cause health and aesthetic problems. Mold fungi, present everywhere, usually appear as black or gray patches on wood surfaces in humid environments, and are common in houses. Like any living organism, molds need food, water, oxygen, and a specific temperature range in order to grow. To avoid mold growth on wood materials, two methods are commonly used: poisoning the food with chemicals or controlling water availability. Chemical treatment of wood materials, however, may have a negative impact on the living environment. Therefore, the most suitable method to control mold growth on wood materials in houses is to utilize design features, construction tools and practices that prevent moisture accumulation, and keep the wood as dry as possible. In order to achieve this, engineers and homebuilders have to know the effects of various temperature and moisture conditions on water accumulation in wood materials, and the rates at which mold grows in a particular environment. A study was recently conducted to determine water absorption rates from humid air by different wood materials and corresponding mold growth on strand board, plywood, fiberboard, gypsum board, and several Canadian wood species lumber, under different environmental conditions. The results of this study are reported in this article.

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