Case 4

Biological Growth on Structural Wall

Biological growth covering the wall in this case shows how algae can grow easily in the presence of water. In this case clearly the irrigation pipes are leaking from its joints and water is flowing on to the painted wall surface ensuring sustained moisture on the surface. This constant moisture is then believed to propagate algae growth as the wall surface is illuminated with sunlight for prolonged hours under the tropical sun creating an environment in which biological growth is thriving.

Such issues are triggered from faulty pipes and joints. These can be from irrigation and drain systems or even the condensate water lines of air-conditioning systems of a building. Once such pipes being in contact with walls becomes faulty it creates this kind of issues in biological growth. Therefore, in the design itself special considerations has to be given to the materials and methods of pipe installation to ensure minimal faults in these.